Getting Strata Council Approval for Renovations in BC

Strata Council Renovation Approval in BC

BC’s Strata Property Act governs what changes strata owners can make to their units. Understanding the approval process helps avoid costly disputes with your strata corporation.

What Requires Strata Approval

Under the Strata Property Act, owners need strata approval for “alterations” to a strata lot that affect the common property, common assets, or limited common property:

• Flooring changes (especially hard surface over carpet)
• Structural changes (removing walls)
• Changes to balcony or patio (limited common property)
• Modifications affecting building mechanical systems
• Changes to plumbing or electrical that could affect other units

The Approval Process

1. Submit written application to strata council
2. Include: scope of work, contractor name/insurance, timeline
3. For structural/plumbing/electrical: include drawings and permit info
4. Strata council votes at meeting (majority required)
5. Approval letter provided with conditions

Typical Approval Conditions

• Construction hours (often 9am–5pm, no weekends)
• Elevator protection and booking requirement
• Contractor must carry minimum $2M CGL insurance
• Restoration of any common areas disturbed
• Acoustic underlay specification for hard flooring

What If Strata Refuses?

If strata unreasonably refuses approval, you can apply to the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) for a determination. The standard is whether the strata acted reasonably under the Strata Property Act.

→ See also: Vancouver Renovation Planning Guide

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VGC Editorial Team

✓ Licensed Contractor500+ Projects15 Years Experience

Vancouver General Contractors has completed 500+ home renovations across Metro Vancouver since 2010. Our articles are written and reviewed by licensed contractors, project managers, and renovation specialists with hands-on field experience.

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