RESOURCES

When buying a Condominium property in Ontario, it is important to obtain (and have reviewed) a copy of the Status Certificate Package. Of the numerous documents that form the Status Certificate Package is the Reserve Fund Study, sometimes referred to as the Form 15.

A Reserve Fund Study is a comprehensive report that outlines the financial health of the condominium corporation and its Reserve Fund (“Fund”). The study evaluates the current state of the property’s assets, such as the building, its systems, and the common elements. The findings of the Reserve Fund Study predicts the future cost of maintaining, repairing, and replacing those assets over a 30-year period. As per the Condominium Act, a Reserve Fund Study is to be conducted once every three years in Ontario.

When Buyers familiarize themselves with the findings of a Reserve Fund Study, they can make informed financial decisions on a perspective investment. With such knowledge, Buyers are able to ensure that they are adequately forewarned of any anticipated increases in the costs of repair or replacement of the common elements, which may become the responsibility of the unit owners.

If the Reserve Fund Study reveals that the Fund is underfunded, this may be indicative that the condominium corporation has not been collecting and/or contributing enough to sufficiently plenish the Fund. There are many reasons why a Reserve Fund may be underfunded, and details of such are typically included in the Status Certificate. As a result of an inadequate Fund, unit owners may be faced with special assessments or increased common expenses to cover the inadequacies. Such increased costs can affect the property’s overall value and the unit owner’s financial ability to maintain said property.  

In summary, understanding the details of a Reserve Fund Study is critical for anyone considering purchasing a condominium in Ontario. As mentioned, having knowledge of the current state of the Fund provides valuable information about the property’s financial health and can help perspective unit owners plan for any future expenses.

If you have any questions about the Status Certificate of a Condominium in Ontario, please do not hesitate to contact us at (905) 270-6660 or e-mail us at: Info@kormans.ca.

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Daniel Kuchuk is an Associate Lawyer at Kormans LLP. You can reach Daniel here: dkuchuk@kormans.ca.

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