A condominium is a form of government with all the drama, power plays and a budget debate you would expect from Parliament but with more pets and hallway gossip. Boards hold substantial authority and make decisions that affect the daily lives and financial interests of those who live and work there. A well-run board is the backbone of a thriving condo community, but when power struggles, secretive meetings, and passive-aggressive emails take over, condos can feel less like home and more like a political thriller.
What a condo board really Is: far beyond a social group
Condo boards are not casual clubs. They are elected groups of volunteers—usually owners—tasked with managing the affairs of the condo corporation. Their responsibilities span financial oversight, property upkeep, rule enforcement, and ensuring compliance with the Condominium Act and the corporation’s governing documents (declaration, by-laws, and rules). These are serious obligations, and as experts point out, few careers truly prepare individuals for the unique demands of managing a residential community.
The political nature of condo boards stems from the collision of these responsibilities with personal interests, conflicting goals, and the reality that board members are also neighbours.
But these dynamics are only part of the picture. A board’s effectiveness is also shaped by its relationship with the property management team, a partnership that can be politically charged, either reinforcing strong governance or becoming a source of tension.
The board-management dynamic: a crucial partnership
A balanced partnership between a condo board and its property management team is vital. When cultivated effectively, this relationship fosters a flourishing community; however, when mismanaged, the board must often engage in relentless efforts to enforce accountability in vendor oversight, contractor procurement, and on-site fiduciary duties.
Vendor selections made unilaterally by management can lead to persistent issues, including delayed repairs, incomplete maintenance, poor landscaping choices that diminish curb appeal, and unreliable elevator services, all of which can compromise the community’s living standards and property values.
A cohesive board must advocate for joint evaluations, rigorous performance metrics and the authority to replace underperforming vendors. By implementing accountability measures like regular site inspections, detailed performance reports, and resident feedback loops, a strong board, alongside responsive property management, ensures that vendors meet standards, significantly improving reliability, resident satisfaction, and the overall vitality of the condo community.
Contractor procurement demands even tougher reforms. Questionable renovation bids submitted without expert input and viable reports to substantiate decision-making should prompt majority board members to insist on transparency, multiple bids and expert consultation before undertaking large-scale renovations. These victories require persistence, clear communication, and a firm grasp of governing documents.
Where conflicts arise: common political flashpoints
Disputes within condo communities often have multiple layers, from financial disagreements to interpersonal tensions. Some of the most frequent sources of conflict include:
Money matters: Financial issues are often the most divisive. Residents may disagree over maintenance fees, special assessments for repairs, and how the reserve fund is handled. Some board members may advocate for lower fees to reduce costs, while others push for higher contributions to ensure long-term financial health.
Conflicts of interest: A major concern arises when a board member stands to benefit financially from a decision. This could involve hiring a relative’s company for a project or using their position for personal advantage. Ethical governance demands full disclosure of such conflicts and abstaining from related votes.
Opacity and poor communication: When boards operate behind closed doors, trust deteriorates. Residents may feel excluded or uninformed. Delays in sharing meeting minutes, financial reports, or other documents can breed suspicion and even lead to legal disputes.
Rule enforcement: Disagreements over rule, such as those governing pets, people, parking, can become flashpoints. Uneven enforcement or favouritism can alienate residents and foster resentment.
Personality conflicts and divisions: Even with good intentions, differing views and personalities can lead to gridlock. Boards may split into factions, making decision-making difficult. These divisions can spill into the wider community, creating tension among neighbours.
Misuse of authority: In rare but serious cases, a board may exceed its legal powers or engage in unethical behaviour. Such situations can be highly damaging and may require legal intervention to correct or remove the board.
How to navigate condo politics: tips for residents and board members
Whether you’re a resident concerned about governance or a board member striving to serve your community, there are practical steps to reduce conflict and improve collaboration.
Advice for Residents
Participate actively: The best way to influence change is to get involved. Attend meetings, vote in elections, and consider running for the board. A board with diverse skills—from legal and financial expertise to project management—is better equipped to lead effectively.
Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your condo’s governing documents and the applicable legislation. This knowledge empowers you to challenge decisions that may overstep legal boundaries.
Communicate thoughtfully: Before escalating concerns, try resolving them through respectful dialogue. Use formal channels like written requests and keep records of all communications. If necessary, escalate the issue to a regulatory body or tribunal.
Advice for Board Members:
Honour your fiduciary duty: Board members must prioritize the interests of the entire condo corporation, not personal agendas or specific groups. This includes making informed decisions (duty of care) and avoiding conflicts of interest.
Promote transparency and dialogue: Clear, consistent communication builds trust. Boards should establish communication protocols, share updates regularly, and make themselves accessible. Providing detailed agendas and minutes shows accountability.
Follow the rules and seek legal guidance: The Condominium Act and governing documents are the foundation of board authority. Adhering to them ensures legality. When uncertain, consult professionals with expertise in condo law.
Maintain professionalism: Board meetings should be structured and respectful. Treat them as formal business sessions, not social events. A professional tone helps prevent personal disputes from derailing important decisions.
Condo board politics are an unavoidable aspect of shared living. Though they can be challenging, they also reflect the democratic nature of these communities. By embracing openness, education, and respectful engagement, both residents and board members can turn a potentially divisive environment into a well-managed and cooperative place to live.
Mihaela Andrei is a Toronto condo board president and realtor who is passionate about community governance and optimizing condo community living. Views expressed are her own.
Val Khomenko, RCM, OLCM, is Director of Condominium Management with TSE Management Services Inc., providing full-service property management and consulting services in the Greater Toronto Area.
