When we decide to buy a house, we have to own everything: from the land to the plumbing, from the roof to the interior finishes. But it’s a different story when we opt for a condominium or condo. In that case, we’re the owner of some elements, and co-owners of others. Read our article as our condominium specialists explain the common elements of a condominium.

First of all, a condominium is divided into two distinct parts: the private areas and the common areas. However, since things are never simple, there are also common elements for private use. In other words, elements that only one co-owner can use, but whose maintenance is the responsibility of the syndicate, i.e. all the co-owners. Balconies are often defined in this way. But let’s leave aside common elements for private use, and concentrate on private and common areas.

When we talk about private areas, we’re talking about the part of the building that is for the exclusive use of a co-owner: his or her apartment, parking space or storage area, for example. And when we speak of a dwelling, the DGC mentions that it must include at least sanitary installations, i.e. a water inlet, a toilet and a bath/shower, a place to prepare and consume meals and a place to sleep. Everything else falls under the heading of common areas.

The term “common area” refers to everything that falls under the control or responsibility of the syndicate of co-ownership, and for which it is responsible for maintenance and management. When you buy a condo, you also buy a share in the common areas. What this means is that you are a co-owner of the building. And, as a member of the syndicate, you will participate in decisions concerning the maintenance of the common areas, and any modifications or work that needs to be carried out.

Common areas often include elements such as passageways and corridors, stairways and elevators, the central heating system or the building’s entrances and grounds, as well as any

But to find out where your private portion ends and the common areas begin, you need to refer to the declaration of co-ownership. What is it, you ask? Well, it’s a notarized document published in the Land Register of Québec, which sets out the rights and obligations of co-owners and the syndicate, the operating rules of the co-ownership and a description of the common and private areas. It’s in the section entitled “état descriptif des fractions” (description of fractions) that we find the elements we’re interested in today, namely those concerning the description of the private and common areas.

If you have any questions about what’s included in your private areas, or if you’re considering buying a condo, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our specialized condominium inspectors will offer you the best possible service to meet your needs.