Lenny Chiro v Toronto Standard Condominium Corporation No. 1615 - 2019 ONCAT 6 - 2019-03-28
Corporation:
LCTSCC 1615
Date:
2019-03-28
Summary:
The case titled "Lenny Chiro v Toronto Standard Condominium Corporation No 1615" involves a dispute regarding access to records. The applicant and unit owner, requested paper copies of board meeting minutes from the condominium corporation. The respondent initially provided electronic copies of some minutes but failed to comply with the requirements for safekeeping and storage of records as set out in the Condominium Act. The applicant alleged non-compliance and requested a penalty and costs from the condominium authority.
The tribunal found that while the response initially fell short of requirements, the requested records were eventually provided. As a result, no penalty or costs were imposed on the respondent. The decision analyzes the regulations and processes related to responding to record requests and highlights the importance of maintaining accurate and accessible records in compliance with the law.
Under:
CAT Decisions - Decision
Access to Records
Fees, Costs, Penalties
Records Retention
Verdict:
the quick verdict of the case titled "Lenny Chiro v Toronto Standard Condominium Corporation No 1615" is that the Respondent failed to initially provide all the requested records and did not comply with the form requirements specified by the Minister. However, the requested records were eventually fulfilled, resulting in no penalties or costs imposed on the Respondent. The lesson from this case highlights the importance of complying with record retention requirements, timely response to record requests, and the significance of accurate record-keeping within condominium corporations to ensure transparency and resolution of disputes
Takeaways:
Compliance with record retention requirements: The case emphasizes the importance for condominium corporations to comply with the safekeeping and storage requirements outlined in the Condominium Act and Regulation 4801. Failure to do so can result in penalties.
Request for records: The decision highlights the process surrounding a unit owner's request for records from the condominium corporation. It underscores that the corporation has an obligation to respond to such requests within 30 days, using the form specified by the Minister responsible for the Condominium Act.
Fulfillment of record requests: While the respondent initially fell short of compliance, the tribunal found that the requested records were eventually provided to the applicant, resolving the issue. Consequently, no penalty or costs were imposed on the respondent.
Expansion of issues: The tribunal denied the applicant's request to expand the issues to include historical minutes of meetings not initially requested. It was deemed unfair to introduce new matters outside the scope of the original request for records.
Importance of accurate record-keeping: The case underscores the significance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, serving as vital evidence in disputes and ensuring transparency within condominium corporations.
Recommendations:
Comply with record retention requirements: Ensure that all records are safely kept and stored in accordance with the requirements outlined in the Condominium Act and Regulation 4801. This will help prevent penalties and non-compliance issues.
Timely response to record requests: Respond to unit owners' requests for records within 30 days, using the designated form specified by the Minister responsible for the Condominium Act. This will demonstrate transparency and adherence to the law.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records: Regularly update and maintain accurate records, including minutes of board meetings and other relevant documents. This will help avoid potential disputes and ensure transparency within the condominium corporation.