Read This Before You Sign

The article discusses a "Common Area Surveillance Consent" agreement that undercover police officers are requesting property managers in condominiums or residential buildings to sign. The agreement allows the police to conduct surveillance in common areas for certain investigations when they lack sufficient grounds for a warrant. However, property managers should exercise caution and consult with the condominium's Board of Directors and Legal Counsel before signing the form. Canadian law recognizes reasonable expectation of privacy, and property managers need to be aware of the implications of granting access to personal information without residents' prior consent. The article advises property managers to have documented procedures for interactions with the police and consult with their corporate lawyer before allowing access without a warrant.