GHC-Condo-News-Fall-2026 by LS Graphics

VOL. 29 • FALL 2026

A Look Back at the 2026 Golden Horseshoe Conference Building Connections on Course: BSAO & GHC-CCI Come Together for the Annual Golf Tournament The Work That Pays Off in March: Why Fall Matters Most for Condo Grounds What Does “Confidential” Really Mean in Condominium Minutes

Pre-winter Maintenance for Townhome Communities

ICE DAMMED IF YOU DON’T!

CAT Draws a Wide Circle Around Litigation Privilege: Key Lessons from Wang v. TSCC 2977

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FEATURES 12

The Work That Pays Off in March: Why Fall Matters Most for Condo Grounds

Pre-winter Maintenance for Townhome Communities

Ice Dammed If You Don’t

What Does “Confidential” Really Mean in Condominium Minutes?

CAT Draws a Wide Circle Around Litigation Privilege: Key Lessons from Wang v. TSCC 2977

7 CCI NEWS & EVENTS 5

From the President

Turning the Page: A Look Back at the 2026 CCI Golden Horseshoe Conference

Building Connections on the Course: BSAO & GHC-CCI Come Together for Annual Golf Tournament

Upcoming Events

Tool Talk

The Ron Danks Leadership Award

18 Condo News | FALL 2026

SimpsonWigle Law LLP

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4 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Condo News

is produced 4 times per year

From the President

FROM THE PRESIDENT Will MacKay, CFP, CIM

Summer Issue (July) Deadline – June 15th

GHC-CCI President

Fall Issue (October) Deadline – September 15th Winter (January) Deadline – December 15th Spring (May) Deadline – April 15th Articles of interest to condominium owners and directors are welcome. See details for submissions on page 50. To advertise contact:

Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute

Box 37, Burlington, Ontario L7R 3X8 Tel: 905-631-0124 | 1-844-631-0124 Fax: 416-491-1670 Email: admin@cci-ghc.ca The authors, the Canadian Condominium Institute, and its representatives will not be held liable in any respect whatsoever for any statement or advice contained herein. Articles should not be relied upon as a professional opinion or as an authoritative or comprehensive answer in any case. Professional advice should be obtained after discussing all particulars applicable in the specific circumstances in order to obtain an opinion or report capable of absolving condominium directors from liability [under s. 37 (3) (b) of the Condominium Act, 1998]. Authors’ views expressed in any article are not necessarily those of the Canadian Condominium Institute. All contributors are deemed to have consented to publication of any information provided by them, including business or personal contact information. Advertisements are paid advertising and do not imply endorsement of or any liability whatsoever on the part of CCI with respect to any product, service or statement.

#LifeIsGolden

here is something about the arrival of fall that naturally turns our attention toward preparation. The days get shorter, the leaves begin to change, and around our homes and communities we start thinking about what needs to be taken care of before the colder weather arrives. Whether it is servicing equipment, finishing outdoor projects, or simply making sure everything is ready for another Canadian winter, fall reminds us that a little planning today can make the months ahead much easier. The same is true for our condominium communities—and for our Chapter. That idea of looking ahead while learning from what has come before was very much on display at our GHC-CCI Annual Conference 2026 in Hamilton. This year’s conference titled “The Next Chapter” told the story of condominium communities from many different perspectives and judging by the response, it was a story people wanted to be part of. We welcomed record attendance of almost 500 attendees across our professional partners, property managers, condominium directors and industry participants, making this our largest and one of our most successful conferences to date. More importantly, the rooms were filled with conversation, questions, new connections and a real sense of community. An event of that size does not come together by accident. I want to offer a special thank-you to our Conference Co-Chairs, Jennifer Beaver and Kristeena Berube, along with the entire Conference Committee, for the tremendous amount of work that went into making the day such a success. From the speakers and educational sessions to the trade show, networking opportunities and countless details behind the scenes, their commitment was evident throughout the event. I would also like to thank our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, volunteers and everyone who attended. Record numbers are certainly something to celebrate, but the real measure of success is seeing people leave with new ideas, new relationships and a desire to come back. As we move into the final months of the year, there are plenty of opportunities to keep that momentum going. Our educational calendar continues with the Condominium Director Certificate Program and Condo Talk continued… Condo News | FALL 2026

FROM THE PRESIDENT CONT’D sessions addressing issues that boards and managers are dealing with every day. Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute Box 37, Burlington, Ontario L7R 3X8 Tel: 905-631-0124 | Toll Free 1-844-631-0124 Fax: 416-491-1670 | Email: admin@cci-ghc.ca Website: Website: www.cci-ghc.ca

2025-2026 Board of Directors PRESIDENT

Will MacKay, CFP, CIM VICE-PRESIDENT

Kevin Shaw

PAST PRESIDENT Richard Elia, B.Comm., LL.B, LL.M (ADR) ACCI TREASURER

Alicia Gatto, CPA, CA, LPA (Chair Finance Committee) SECRETARY

Michelle Joy, BA, RCM, OLCM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

David Corbett Jennifer Beaver, BSc., AdDpHR, OLCM (2026 GHC Conference Co-Chair)

Maria Durdan, B.A., LL.B., ACCI JJ Foulds, BA, OLCM, RCM

(Board Liaison Education Committee)

Patrick Greco, B.A.Sc., LL.B.

(Board Liaison Communications Committee)

Kelly MacDonald Sokol Meta, RCM, CMCA, BA (Board Liaison Professional & Business Partners’ Committee) Thomas F. Nederpel, B.Sc., PEng

6 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

On November 6, we will also come together for Strikes, Spares & Condo Affairs and our Annual General Meeting. I encourage members to attend the AGM—not simply because it is an important part of the governance of our Chapter, but because it provides another opportunity to connect with the people who make CCI what it is. I would also encourage anyone who has enjoyed one of our conferences, educational programs or networking events to consider taking the next step and joining a committee. CCI works because people volunteer their time, experience and ideas. You do not need to have decades of industry experience to contribute. In fact, bringing new people and new perspectives into our committees is essential to keeping the Chapter relevant and growing. Whether your interest is education, communications, professional and business partnerships, governance or another area of the organization, getting involved is one of the best ways to meet people and have a meaningful impact. As we prepare our buildings, homes and communities for another winter, it is also a good time to prepare for the year ahead. Attend an event. Introduce yourself to someone new. Bring a colleague or a new board member to a CCI session. The strength of the Golden Horseshoe Chapter has always come from participation, and after seeing the energy at this year’s conference, I am very optimistic about where we are headed next. Fall reminds us that change is inevitable, but we can all change together. Will MacKay President, CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter

Turning the Page: A Look Back at the 2026 CCI Golden Horseshoe Conference Education, connection and community took centre stage as the condominium industry came together for another memorable annual conference. On September 25, the CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter welcomed the condominium community to the Hamilton Convention Centre for its 2026 Annual Conference — a full day of learning, networking, collaboration and conversation. Bringing together condominium directors, owners, property managers, professionals, trades and industry partners, the conference once again demonstrated the important role CCI plays in connecting the many people who contribute to successful condominium communities. And this year, there was a story to tell. From the opening session to the final legal discussion of the day, the 2026 program invited attendees to explore the many “chapters” that make up condominium living — technology, finances, building maintenance, insurance, governance, leadership, wellness, community and, above all, people.

reconnect with familiar faces, meet new industry colleagues and begin conversations that continued throughout the following day. By Friday morning, the Hamilton Convention Centre was buzzing. Attendees gathered for breakfast on the trade show floor before Conference Co-Chairs Jennifer Beaver, CIE Property Management & Consulting and Kristeena Berube, Butler Property Management, together with Chapter President William MacKay from CIBC Wood Gundy, and our Conference Partner, Maria Durdan, from SimpsonWigle LAW officially welcomed everyone and set the stage for the day ahead.

Starting the Day with a Twist Education does not always have to happen behind a podium. The opening feature session, “Plot Twists & Property Tales: Condo Edition Family Feud,” brought some fun and friendly competition to the conference while putting a distinctly condominium spin on a familiar game-show format.

The Story Began the Night Before The conference experience began before the doors officially opened Friday morning. On Thursday evening, condominium managers and CCI Golden Horseshoe Professional and Business Partner members gathered for the Condo Manager & Professional Partners Reception: Prologue to the Conference. The relaxed evening provided an opportunity to Condo News | FALL 2026

Getting the Right People Around the Table

Hosted by David Heska of WSP, the session was a lively way to start the day and set the tone for a conference designed not only to educate, but also to engage. From there, attendees moved between the trade show and a packed schedule of concurrent education sessions addressing many of the issues condominium communities are facing today.

Technology Meets Community Technology — and particularly artificial intelligence — continues to change the way condominium communities operate. “The Digital Chapter: Smart Buildings & The Future of Connected Communities” explored how access control, connected building systems and AI-powered tools are already being incorporated into everyday condominium operations. Rather than looking at technology as something on the distant horizon, the discussion focused on what is happening now and how managers, boards and service providers can use new tools to improve communication, save time and streamline operations. The conversation was an important reminder that technology is most valuable when it supports the people using it and makes communities easier and more effective to manage.

No condominium corporation succeeds because of one person. Boards, condominium managers, lawyers, accountants, engineers, financial professionals, real estate experts and other specialists all play a role in helping communities make informed decisions. “The Cast of Characters: Aligning the Experts Behind Successful Communities” looked at the importance of bringing those perspectives together. From financial audits and status certificates to the resale market and broader financial considerations, the session demonstrated why collaboration among a condominium corporation’s professional advisors is so important. That message — the value of having the right expertise at the right time — carried through many of the day’s discussions.

Reading Beyond the Numbers For condominium boards, few responsibilities are more important than financial stewardship. But understanding the financial health of a corporation involves much more than determining whether a budget line has been exceeded. “Reading Between the Lines: Understanding Condo Financials & Project Planning” brought together financial, lending and engineering perspectives to explore the relationship between financial statements, reserve fund planning, major capital projects and funding decisions. The discussion also addressed one of the most difficult responsibilities facing boards and managers: communicating complex and sometimes costly decisions to owners. Whether a community is considering a major repair, a loan, reserve fund pressures or a special assessment, clear communication and long-term planning can be just as important as the numbers themselves.

8 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Condo News | FALL 2025

When the Unexpected Happens

Working Smarter

Every condominium community hopes it will never experience a major property loss, but preparation can make an enormous difference when something goes wrong. “When The Story Changes: Crisis, Recovery & Lessons from the Front Lines” followed the lifecycle of an insurance claim, from the initial incident and emergency response through restoration and project completion. The session reinforced the importance of coordination among property managers, insurance professionals, restoration teams, boards and residents. When a crisis occurs, communication, clearly defined responsibilities and a coordinated response can help reduce disruption and move a community toward recovery.

Time is one resource condominium leaders never seem to have enough of. “Writing a Better Workflow: Productivity Strategies for Modern Condo Leadership” explored practical ways managers and board members can prioritize competing demands, improve decision-making, streamline operations and make better use of technology. In an environment where managers and volunteer directors are often balancing multiple priorities, the session encouraged attendees to think beyond simply reacting to the next issue and instead create processes that allow communities to operate more strategically and proactively.

Protecting the Physical Story Condominiums may take many forms — high-rise towers, townhomes, midrise buildings and mixeduse developments — but every community shares the responsibility of maintaining its physical assets. “Foundations of the Story: Protecting Condo Communities from the Ground Up” examined preventative maintenance, building systems, repair and replacement priorities and the importance of developing maintenance programs that reflect the needs of each property. The message was straightforward but important: proactive maintenance and informed planning can help extend the life of building assets, manage risk and protect owners’ investments.

The Human Chapter Buildings may be made of concrete, steel and glass, but communities are made of people. That distinction was at the heart of “The Human Chapter: Wellness, Culture & Community in Condo Living.” The discussion explored the human side of condominium living, including community relationships, stress, mental health and wellness, and how managers, boards and residents can respond when someone is experiencing

distress or crisis. It was an important reminder that good condominium governance is not solely about policies, finances and physical assets. Respect, communication, empathy and a sense of community also contribute to the health and success of the places people call home.

Continued…

Condo News | FALL 2026

Leadership When the Story Takes an Unexpected Turn

spective on the policies and legislation that affect these communities.

One of the most compelling conversations of the day came during “A Chapter We Never Expected: Leadership, Crisis & Community Response.” The session examined the realities of volunteer leadership during a prolonged and extraordinarily difficult community conflict. Through perspectives from board leadership, legal counsel and a resident family member, attendees heard about governance under pressure, financial stewardship, community safety, difficult decision-making and the human impact of leading a community through circumstances no board could ever anticipate.

More Than a Conference Of course, some of the most valuable conference conversations did not happen in a session room. Throughout the day, the trade show floor was filled with conversations as attendees connected with exhibitors, learned about new products and services, exchanged ideas and caught up with colleagues from

Perhaps most importantly, the session highlighted resilience. Condominium directors are volunteers, but the responsibilities they accept can become significant during a crisis. Strong leadership, professional guidance, transparent communication and neighbours supporting one another can all play a role in helping a community navigate uncertainty and begin rebuilding trust.

The Final Chapter The formal education program concluded with “The Final Chapter: Legal Trends Shaping the Future of Condo Communities.” The legal panel looked at the evolution of condominium communities through changing legislation, legal precedents, governance practices and emerging issues. It also reinforced the importance of advocacy and ensuring that the condominium community has a voice with municipal and provincial decision-makers. As condominium living continues to represent an important part of Ontario’s housing landscape, the collective experience of directors, owners, managers and industry professionals provides an important per-

across the Golden Horseshoe condominium community. Following the education program, The Afterword Reception: Conversations & Connections provided one final opportunity to continue those discussions and bring a busy conference day to a close. That spirit of connection is what makes the annual CCI Golden Horseshoe Conference special.

10 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

The challenges facing condominium communities continue to evolve. Technology is changing. Buildings are aging. Costs are increasing. Expectations are shifting. Legal and regulatory environments continue to develop, and boards and managers are being asked to navigate increasingly complex responsibilities. But no condominium community has to write its story alone. CCI brings together the knowledge, experience and perspectives of an entire industry — creating opportunities for people to learn from one another, ask difficult questions, share experiences and build relationships that continue long after the conference ends. The 2026 Annual Conference was another chapter in that ongoing story. And judging by the conversations, connections and energy throughout the day, there are many more chapters still to come.

Thank You to Our 2026 Conference Sponsors Partner Sponsor

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Thank you to our Conference Partner, SimpsonWigle LAW, our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, moderators, volunteers, Conference Committee and everyone who attended and helped make the 2026 CCI Golden Horseshoe Annual Conference another successful event.

We look forward to seeing everyone again in 2027!

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

See more photos at: https://cci-ghc. ca/courses-events/conference-2026/ photo-gallery Condo News | FALL 2026

FEATURE

The Work That Pays Off in March: Why Fall Matters Most for Condo Grounds Steve Polley

Gelderman Landscaping

all is the easiest season to trim from a landscape budget, and the most expensive one to skip. As the growing season winds down, the temptation is to let the property coast into winter and save a few invoices. But the weeks between the last mow and the first snowfall are when a corporation protects — or quietly forfeits — everything it spent on the grounds that year. The case for fall work is really a case against an expensive spring. Begin with the leaves. Left in place, wet leaves mat down over the lawn and smother the grass beneath, leaving bare, dead patches that surface the moment the snow melts. Clearing them matters, but it helps to understand how the work is scheduled. Leaf cleanup is typically handled with a set number of timed visits, planned for when the bulk of the leaves have come down, rather than an ongoing week-to-week service. Because trees don’t all drop at once, a light scattering after the final visit is normal and isn’t a sign the work was missed — the goal is to clear the heavy cover before it can smother the lawn over winter.

12 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Next comes the work that thickens and strengthens the turf for the year ahead. Aerating — pulling small plugs of soil from the lawn to relieve compaction — lets water, air and nutrients reach the roots. Paired with overseeding, the spreading of fresh grass seed, it fills in thin areas and builds a denser lawn that crowds out weeds the following season. Early fall, while the soil is still warm, is the ideal window. The final cuts matter as well: lowering the mowing height slightly on the last pass keeps long grass from matting under snow,

and a fall feeding sends nutrients to the roots through dormancy so the lawn returns stronger in spring. The plantings need attention too. Cutting back spent perennials tidies the beds and removes the dead growth where pests and disease overwinter. Vulnerable shrubs and young evergreens benefit from a wrap of burlap or a screen on the windward and salt-spray sides, which shields them from the drying winter wind and the salt thrown up by passing plows. There’s one more fall task that costs almost nothing and prevents

real damage: marking. Staking out garden beds, bed edges and irrigation heads before the snow flies tells the winter crews where the plants are. It’s the difference between a plow that skirts a bed and one that shears off its edge in the dark. For a board or manager, the most valuable move in fall is simply to confirm that this work is actually in the maintenance contract — and getting done. Fall services are often the first to be quietly dropped when a season runs long or a budget runs tight, and the saving never survives contact with spring. A property put to bed properly in November needs a light tidy in March. One that wasn’t needs an overhaul. Steve Polley is a Business Development Manager for Gelderman Landscape Services ULC. He supports commercial and residential properties in South Western Ontario..

Condo News | FALL 2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us on August 20, 2026, at Century Pines Golf Club for a fantastic day of golf, networking and industry camaraderie. Together, we are building stronger communities—on and off the course.

Building Connections on the Course: BSAO & GHC-CCI Come Together for Annual Golf Tournament The Building Science Association of Ontario (BSAO) and the Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute (GHC-CCI) once again joined forces for their annual golf tournament, bringing together professionals from across the building science and condominium communities for a memorable day of golf, networking and industry camaraderie. Held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Century Pines Golf Club, the joint tournament provided an ideal opportunity for members, colleagues and industry partners from both organizations to step away from the office and strengthen relationships in a relaxed setting. The picturesque course near Hamilton, surrounded by mature maple, oak and pine trees, provided a beautiful backdrop for the day. The event began with registration and a welcome lunch, giving participants plenty of time to reconnect

with familiar faces and meet new colleagues before the 1:30 p.m. tee-off. From there, golfers headed out onto the course for an afternoon that combined friendly competition with plenty of opportunities to connect.

14 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Thank You to Our Sponsors Partner

Gold Sponsors

Throughout the course, creative sponsor activations added another element of fun to the tournament. This year’s program included activities and contests such as Fire in the Hole, Crafty Hole, Caesarmania, Challenge the Disc Golf Pro, Closest to the Cable, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin competitions, among several other activities designed to keep golfers entertained throughout their round. Following golf, participants came back together for a cocktail reception and buffet dinner, providing another opportunity to continue conversations, celebrate the day’s competition and enjoy the company of colleagues from both organizations.

More Than a Day of Golf While there was plenty of friendly competition on the course, the real value of the tournament was the connections made throughout the day.

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Bogey Sponsors

Continued… Condo News | FALL 2026

The partnership between BSAO and GHC-CCI brings together two complementary professional communities. Building science professionals, engineers, consultants, contractors, condominium managers, board members and other industry partners regularly work alongside one another to address the challenges associated with maintaining, repairing and improving Ontario’s buildings. Events like the annual golf tournament create an opportunity to build those professional relationships outside of day-to-day projects and business meetings. The combined networks of BSAO and GHC-CCI represent a specialized audience of approximately 1,500 industry contacts, demonstrating the reach and value created when the two organizations collaborate.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Participants An event of this size would not be possible without the tremendous support of our sponsors, volunteers, golfers and industry partners. We extend our sincere appreciation to the many sponsors whose support helped make the tournament possible and whose creative activations added so much energy and fun to the day. We also thank every golfer who joined us and helped make the tournament such a successful opportunity to connect our two communities. 16 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who embraced the spirit of the event—meeting someone new, reconnecting with colleagues and strengthening the relationships that make both the building science and condominium industries stronger. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the course next year for another great day of golf, networking and collaboration!

See more photos at: https://bsao.ca/events/2026-bsaoghc-cci-golf-tournament/2026-photo-gallery

National Condominium Financial Inc. | jim@condominiumfinancial.com | 647-250-7260 | www.condominiumfinancial.com

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Condo News | FALL 2026

FEATURE

Pre-winter Maintenance for Townhome Communities Jimmy Muir

FirstService Residential

inter is a season known for its unpredictability. There are days when the sky promises clear blue horizons, only to be followed by a sudden blizzard that dumps several inches of snow in no time. This inconsistency can put significant strain on townhome communities, as snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can affect everything from roadways and roofs to drainage systems and the safety of common areas. Unfortunately, many community managers are unsure where to begin. By creating a winter preparedness checklist and taking proactive measures before the first major snowfall, they can reduce risks, protect property, and keep residents safer throughout the winter.

Snow and ice management plan For most communities, winter preparation begins with managing snow and ice. Before the first snowfall, property managers should review snow-removal contracts, confirm service expectations, and ensure contractors know the property’s layout and specific requirements.

continued…

18 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Another important consideration is snow storage, which can easily be overlooked until winter is already underway. Communities should identify where to store plowed snow throughout the season, especially in areas with limited parking. Without adequate storage space, snowbanks can quickly become problematic, reducing available parking and complicating future snow-clearing procedures. It’s also important to communicate parking restrictions to residents in advance. Temporary restrictions during snowfall can ensure that contractors have unobstructed access to roadways and parking areas, allowing for more efficient and safe clearing of the community. Additionally, reviewing contract terms is crucial. Changing contractors mid-season can be challenging for any community, particularly when demand for snow removal services is high. Understanding termination provisions and service commitments before winter begins can help reduce risks and disruptions during peak periods.

Communicate winter plans and expectations early A well-prepared community is also a well-informed community. As winter approaches, residents should know about any seasonal procedures that may affect them, including parking restrictions, snow removal schedules, and changes to site operations. Communicating these details in advance helps set expectations and reduces uncertainty when the first major snowfall arrives. It also allows residents to prepare for temporary changes that may be necessary to

support snow-clearing operations. Clear, timely communication can go a long way toward creating a smoother winter experience for everyone. When residents understand the reasons behind seasonal policies and procedures, communities are often better positioned to respond efficiently to winter weather while maintaining a positive resident experience.

Keep de-icing material readily available Snow removal contractors play a vital role in winter maintenance, but situations often require immediate action between service visits. Keeping an on-site supply of salt or ice melt enables staff to respond quickly when conditions change unexpectedly. This is especially important in high-traffic areas such as walkways, mail kiosks, stairways, visitor parking lots, and building entrances, where ice can form rapidly and pose safety risks for residents and guests. Having materials on hand adds flexibility and can help reduce response times during major weather events, when contractors may be serving multiple properties simultaneously.

Inspect drainage systems before temperatures drop Drainage systems are often associated with heavy rain, but they matter just as much during the winter months. Inspect and clear catch basins, swales, and other drainage infrastructure of leaves, debris, and sediment before freezing temperatures arrive. When melting snow cannot drain properly, water may collect in low areas and refreeze as temperatures drop. This can create slippery conditions on roads, sidewalks, and parking areas, increasing the risk of water-related damage. Addressing these issues in the fall is generally simpler and more cost-effective than dealing with them in the middle of winter.

Check roof drains and related components Roof drainage systems require special attention before winter arrives. Inspect roof drains, downspouts, and eavestroughs to ensure they are clear of blockages that could hinder drainage. As snow begins to accumulate, any restrictions in the drainage systems can lead to standing water, ice buildup, and added stress on Condo News | FALL 2026

roofing components. Coupled with freeze-thaw cycles, even minor drainage issues can escalate into significant maintenance problems. A proactive inspection can help identify and resolve potential issues, as access and repairs are generally easier before winter sets in.

This is also a good opportunity to assess other seasonal items throughout the property and decide whether to remove, relocate, or protect them before the snow arrives.

By proactively addressing these known problem areas, managers can often reduce service calls, enhance safety, and minimize resident complaints throughout the winter.

Review areas with history or winter issues

Remove seasonal site features Townhome communities often have seasonal features that can interfere with winter operations. Removable speed bumps are one of the most common examples. If left in place, these speed bumps can complicate snow clearing and increase the risk of damage during plowing operations. Removing them before winter can help contractors achieve more consistent results while protecting equipment and site features.

Every community has specific locations that tend to attract recurring winter problems. These issues might arise in shaded walkways that frequently develop ice, on roadways where drifting snow accumulates after every storm, or in low-lying areas where water consistently collects and freezes. Reviewing service records, resident feedback, and maintenance reports from previous winters can provide valuable insight into where to focus attention before the season begins.

As a townhome community manager, winter preparedness is about more than checking items off a maintenance list. It’s about creating a safer, more resilient community. When residents wake up to a fresh snowfall, they should be able to start their day with confidence, knowing the planning and preparation were already done long before the snow arrived.

Larlyn Property Management Ltd.

20 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

FEATURE

Ice Dammed If You Don’t

Matthew Foster, P.Eng., BSS

Brown & Beattie Ltd.

his past winter was a notably cold one across the GTA. While cold weather brings fun winter activities that we Canadians enjoy, prolonged periods of snow and freezing temperatures can expose buildings to a lurking terror: ice dam’nation. Ice damming is a phenomenon that you’ve likely seen, but perhaps not understood how it develops. Large icicles hanging from the eavestroughs, ice along the edge of a roof, or snow melting unevenly across a roof can all be warning signs.

What is Ice Damming? Ice damming typically forms on sloped roofs when snow on the roof melts. The melted snow sheds to the colder edge of the roof, where it refreezes. If the weather remains consistently cold and snowy, this process will continue. The

Ice damming at a house in Hamilton, Ontario, February 2026 Condo News | FALL 2026

migration of water as it melts and refreezes near the edge of the roof creates an ice buildup or ‘dam’. Once the dam has built-up high enough, it will cause the melted water to pool on top of the shingle roof. Shingle roofs are not designed to hold standing water, as they rely on water being shed from the roof. When water pools on a sloped roof, this can cause a leak in the house.

Figure 2: Generated image depicting how Ice Damming occurs from steps 1 to 6.

Why is snow on a roof melting in cold weather? If the weather is cold, it may seem strange that snow on the roof is melting. In general, snow that melts on a roof is above an attic where heat is inadvertently being transferred to the roof from the interior living spaces below. Once the liquid water hits the colder edge of the roof beyond the footprint of the attic, it freezes. Another cause of snowmelt and ice damming can be from solar gains combined with complex roof geometries and/or exposures. Roofs featuring deep valleys and orientations that only partially face the sun can create shaded regions. Sunlight heats snow at exposed roof elevations, causing it to melt and shed into valleys or shaded areas, where it refreezes once it’s no longer heated by the sunlight. During winter, the lower path of the

sun arc through the sky increases the extent of shaded areas on most roofs, exacerbating this problem. Trying to permanently resolve this type of ice damming is usually more difficult, as it could require significant reconstruction of the roof framing. Generally, this type of ice damming is sometimes “managed” by using heating cables in the shaded areas of the roof, which has its own limitations. The edges of roofs are more susceptible to ice damming issues. To protect these areas, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) requires a waterproofing membrane under the shingles, along the eaves, which is commonly referred to as “Ice and Water Shield”. While this membrane can help reduce the risk of water entering the building, it does not address the demon that needs to be vanquished to resolve your ice dam’nation problems.

The Three Main Factors Behind Ice Damming In our Canadian climate, attics typically include insulation, air/vapour control layers and ventilation, which all play a role in the performance of an attic space. 1. Insulation Low insulation levels in the attic can allow increased heat transfer from the interior of the unit into the

Figure 3: An attic space with missing insulation.

22 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

attic space via conduction, which can result in more heat transfer to the roof and ultimately more melted snow.

2. Air and Vapour Control While there are several types of air and vapour control layers, most attics include a polyethylene sheet under the insulation that is meant to act as the air and vapour barrier. This barrier is meant to prevent warm interior air from leaking into the attic space. For a polyethylene sheet to perform as an air barrier, all the ceiling penetrations need to be properly sealed. This includes electrical boxes, plumbing stacks, exhaust fans, light fixtures, attic hatches, and other penetrations. Even a small hole in the air barrier can allow substantial air leakage under the right conditions. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to review the air barrier and the associated detailing, as it is often hidden under the insulation. You may not know you have an issue until ice damming symptoms manifest.

Figure 4: Unsealed air barrier around electrical box.

Figure 5: Unsealed air barrier around fan box.

The same polyethylene sheet that acts as an air barrier is often meant to act as a vapour barrier. It is meant to prevent water vapour (i.e. water that is dissolved in the interior air) from diffusing through the building materials. Excessive moisture in attic spaces can cause condensation and associated water damage, which is a separate but often concurrent issue to ice damming.

how air can get trapped in an attic without balanced ventilation.

3. Ventilation

Signals of Ice Damming to Watch For

Attics are meant to be ventilated to remove stagnant air and supply fresh exterior air. This helps prevent the accumulation of moisture and heat within the attic. It may seem counterintuitive, but standing in a well-performing attic should feel like you are standing outside. To promote air circulation, attics are required by the OBC to have vents at the top and bottom of the attic space. Ventilation at the bottom is typically provided by perforated soffits. At the top, ventilation is generally provided by ridge vents or vents near the roof peaks. The OBC requires that the area of the vents at the top and the bottom of the attic space be relatively balanced, which is more critical than one might think. If you’ve ever stuck a straw in a glass of water, covered the top with your finger, and pulled it out, the water trapped in the straw is the same concept of

Figure 6: Blocked soffit vents.

Ice Damming Can Be Difficult to Diagnose The factors behind ice damming can be affected by the smallest of installation details, beyond what we can dive into for this article. For example, small details that can affect attic performance and lead to ice damming include:

Figure 7: Blocked rooftop vent.

An ice dam does not automatically mean that a building has a major defect as harsh weather can cause ice damming even in well performing attics, but repeated or severe ice damming is worth investigating. Some warning signs include: • Large or recurring icicles along the roof edge • Thick ice buildup in or above eavestroughs or lower roof edges • Snow melting noticeably faster over certain areas of the building • Water staining on ceilings or exterior walls during winter • Frost or condensation inside the attic • Wet or compressed attic insulation It can also be helpful to compare similar units within the same townhouse or Condominium complex. If snow always seems to melt on one roof faster than others, with a similar orientation and exposure, then this is a signal that there are attic issues to be reviewed.

• Missing or poorly distributed insulation • Thermal bridging • Blocked soffit or peak vents • Improperly installed attic baffles • Gaps around electrical or mechanical penetrations • Poorly sealed or insulated attic hatches • Bathroom or kitchen exhaust ducts that are disconnected, leaking, or improperly terminated • An inadequate type, number, or distribution of attic vents • Gaps or defects in the air and vapour barrier • Understanding where solar gains and roof geometries may be an added factor Resolving one factor on its own is often not enough to resolve the full issue. The devil truly is in the details, which requires a professional who understands the full dynamics of an attic space, otherwise you could be ice-dammed if you don’t. Matthew Foster, P.Eng., BSS, is a Managing Engineer at Brown & Beattie Ltd. with over 13 years of experience. He leads the GTA West Building Restoration Team, focusing on building restoration projects for all condominium building types. He is a member of the Golden Horseshoe CCI Education Committee and prides himself with sharing knowledge with everyone in the Condominium space. Condo News | FALL 2026

CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter Rolls into Its 2026 Annual General Meeting Friday, November 6, 2026 | Splitsville Hamilton Who says an Annual General Meeting has to be all business? This November, the CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter is putting a new spin on its AGM and inviting members to join us for Strikes, Spares & Condo Affairs — an afternoon that brings together Chapter business, great food, networking and a little friendly competition on the bowling lanes. The event takes place on Friday, November 6, 2026 at Splitsville Hamilton, 1525 Stone Church Road East, Hamilton. The afternoon will begin at 11:30 a.m. with registration, welcome drinks and snacks, giving members an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends from across the condominium community. At 12:00 noon, we will move upstairs for the CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter Annual General Meeting. The AGM is an important opportunity for members to hear about the work of the Chapter, reflect on the past year and look ahead to what is planned for CCI Golden Horseshoe. Our strength as a Chapter comes from an engaged membership, and the AGM provides members with an opportunity to take part in the business of their association and stay connected with its direction.

does best — bring the condominium community together. Our events are about more than education and association business. They provide a place to exchange ideas, build relationships, meet new people and strengthen the connections that make the Golden Horseshoe condominium community such an active one. So, bring your best bowling game — or just come for the company — and join us as we wrap up another year of CCI Golden Horseshoe activities.

THEN IT’S TIME TO HIT THE LANES! Once the business of the AGM is complete, we are trading the boardroom for the bowling alley. From 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., members can enjoy lunch and bowling while catching up with fellow condominium directors, property managers, professionals, service providers and other members of the CCI Golden Horseshoe community. Whether you’re chasing strikes, celebrating spares or simply hoping to keep the ball out of the gutter, the afternoon is designed to be relaxed, social and fun. More importantly, it is another opportunity to do what CCI 24 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

EVENT AT A GLANCE Friday, November 6, 2026 Splitsville Hamilton 1525 Stone Church Road East Hamilton, Ontario 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Registration, Welcome Drinks & Snacks 12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter Annual General Meeting 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Lunch & Bowling

SAVE THE DATE & JOIN US! Come for the AGM. Stay for lunch. Hit the lanes. And spend the afternoon connecting with your CCI Golden Horseshoe community.

We look forward to seeing you there! Condo News | FALL 2026

FEATURE

What Does “Confidential” Really Mean in Condominium Minutes? Tim Bolivar

Minutes On-Time

s General Manager of Minutes On-Time, I work with condominium boards and managers across Ontario in preparing their meeting minutes. One issue that regularly creates confusion is what it actually means when part of those minutes is labelled “confidential.” Ontario condominium boards routinely discuss information that should not necessarily be shared with everyone. Unit-specific matters, legal issues, employee matters and other sensitive subjects can all arise during an ordinary board meeting. For many years, a common practice has been to separate these matters into a confidential section or set of minutes. The general minutes identify the topic, while the substantive details are recorded separately. There are good practical reasons for doing this. It keeps sensitive information from being unnecessarily circulated and makes it easier to identify portions of the record that may require special treatment. However, there is an important distinction between organizing information as confidential and determining whether that information can legally be withheld. continued…

Condo News | FALL 2026

Simply calling minutes “confidential” does not make everything in them confidential.

There Is Still Only One Board Meeting It is common to hear that a board has gone “in camera” or moved into a “confidential meeting.” These terms are useful in practice, but they can create the impression that the board has moved into a legally distinct type of meeting whose records are automatically unavailable to owners. The Condominium Act, 1998 does not establish a separate category of confidential or in-camera board meeting. The board is still conducting a board meeting. During that meeting, however, it may discuss information that a particular person is not entitled to receive.

The fact that information appears in confidential minutes does not, on its own, determine whether it can be withheld from someone requesting the corporation’s records. The Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT) has addressed this distinction in several decisions, including Robinson v. Durham Condominium Corporation No. 139, Russell v. York Condominium Corporation No. 50 and Zamfir v. York Condominium Corporation No. 238. These decisions challenged the practice of treating an entire set of “in-camera” minutes as automati-

cally exempt from disclosure simply because of its designation. In Zamfir, the CAT explained that “in-camera” minutes should essentially be understood as the record of portions of a board meeting that may take place confidentially and/ or may require redaction. The word may is important. The fact that information appears in confidential minutes does not, on its own, determine whether it can be withheld from someone requesting the corporation’s records.

Why the CAT’s Approach Matters Ontario condominium corporations are required to maintain minutes of board meetings, and owners have significant rights to examine and obtain copies of corporate records. Those rights are not unlimited. The Condominium Act contains exceptions relating to certain information, including matters involving employees, actual or contemplated litigation, and specific units or owners. Other protections, such as solicitor-client privilege, can also apply. The CAT’s concern has been with treating confidentiality as an all-or-nothing designation. In Russell, for example, the Tribunal addressed minutes where the substance of meetings had been subject to block redactions. The decision emphasized that when information is redacted, there must be a reason for doing so based on an applicable exemption. The Condominium Authority of Ontario provides similar practical guidance. It advises boards to maintain good minutes and be prepared to share them when

26 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

responding to a records request, while recognizing that portions may be redacted where they contain information the requester is not entitled to receive. The result is a more nuanced approach to confidentiality than simply dividing a corporation’s records into “public” and “confidential.”

Confidential From Whom? A more useful question is often: confidential from whom? Consider a discussion involving a particular unit. Information about that unit may not be appropriate for circulation to owners generally, while the owner of that unit may have different access rights. The same principle can apply in less obvious situations. A board might review competing vendor quotations and record pricing details in its minutes. Those details might appropriately be available to owners while still being inappropriate to post publicly where competing vendors could see one another’s pricing. In other words, confidentiality can depend not only on what the information is, but also on who is receiving it and why. This is why “general” and “confidential” minutes are best understood as useful organizational categories rather than absolute access classifications.

Separate Confidential Minutes Can Still Be Useful None of this means that corporations need to abandon separate confidential minutes. From a practical records-man-

agement perspective, separating sensitive discussions can be helpful. It keeps unit-specific, legal and other sensitive information out of the minutes that are routinely circulated and makes potentially restricted information easier to identify later. The important point is that separation should not end the analysis. When responding to a records request, a corporation still needs to consider what information is contained in the confidential record and whether the particular requester is entitled to receive it. The heading at the top of the document cannot make that determination. The general minutes should also retain an appropriate record that the matter was considered. If a sensitive issue disappears from them entirely, the remaining minutes can give an incomplete picture of the

business conducted by the board. Identifying the general subject and referring to the confidential minutes, without revealing the sensitive details, can preserve that continuity.

A Better Way to Think About Confidentiality The distinction between general and confidential minutes remains useful. Boards deal with genuinely sensitive information, and separating that information can make the corporation’s records clearer and easier to manage. The CAT’s decisions do not eliminate that practical distinction. Rather, they remind corporations that confidentiality ultimately attaches to information, not to the title placed on a document. Good minutes should accurately record the business conducted

Trusted advisors for every stage of your building’s lifecycle.

by the board while allowing sensitive information to be identified and handled appropriately. When disclosure is later considered, the corporation can then determine what the requester is entitled to receive and what, if anything, should be redacted. That approach preserves both sides of the equation: a complete governance record for the corporation and appropriate protection for information that should not be disclosed. Tim Bolivar is the General Manager of Minutes On-Time, a professional minute-taking service working with condominium corporations and property management companies across Canada. He has worked in the condominium industry for more than 15 years, including experience in condominium management, and has served as Secretary on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Chapter of the Community Associations Institute (CAI Canada).

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rjc.ca Condo News | FALL 2026

FEATURE

CAT Draws a Wide Circle Around Litigation Privilege: Key Lessons from Wang v. TSCC 2977 Inderpreet Sandhu Shibley Righton LLP

n Wang v. Toronto Standard Condominium Corporation No. 2977 (2026 ONCAT), the Condominium Authority Tribunal (“CAT”) provided important guidance on the scope of the litigation exception in section 55(4)(b) of the Condominium Act, 1998. The case arose after a purchaser of two condominium units sought extensive records relating to a water leak that had occurred before she acquired ownership. The leak resulted in chargebacks and liens against the units. Following payment of the liens by the former owner’s mortgagee, the mortgagee’s counsel advised the corporation that it intended to litigate the matter and challenged aspects of the chargebacks and related costs. After taking title, the new owner requested a broad range of records, including investigation reports, mitigation records, invoices, photographs, access logs, and technical assessments relating to the leak. The corporation refused to produce many of those records, relying on the litigation exception in section 55(4)(b). The owner commenced a CAT application challenging that refusal.

28 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

The Tribunal dismissed the application and held that the corporation had properly relied on the litigation exception. Of particular significance, CAT reaffirmed that section 55(4)(b) is broader than common law solicitor-client privilege and litigation privilege. The Tribunal rejected the argument that only records containing legal advice or documents created for the purpose of litigation can be withheld. Instead, the statutory test focuses on whether records relate to actual or contemplated litigation. The CAT further held that a clear threat of litigation from the mortgagee’s lawyer constituted sufficient evidence of contemplated litigation, even though no proceeding had yet been commenced. The

Tribunal also found that factual and operational documents, including investigation reports, photographs, invoices, mitigation records, and technical assessments, were all sufficiently connected to the anticipated dispute to fall within the exception. The decision confirms that condominium corporations may withhold a broad range of records where there is a reasonable basis for anticipating litigation and the records are materially connected to the issues that may be litigated. It is a significant affirmation that the section 55(4)(b) exception extends well beyond traditional concepts of privilege and is intended to protect the integrity of the litigation process.

Inderpreet Sandhu is an Associate at Shibley Righton LLP who practices exclusively with the condominium law group. She advises and represents condominium corporations on governance, compliance, contractual, employment, and dispute-related matters, and has appeared before the Condominium Authority Tribunal, Small Claims Court, Superior Court, and other alternative dispute resolution forums.

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Condo News | FALL 2026

Upcoming Events

All events listed below are approved for CMRAO credits

OCT

Directors Certificate Program

October 1 - 29, 2026 - Via Zoom - 7:00 -9:00 pm Program includes 8-Modules running through the month of October. Individual module titles and dates available at https://director-certificate.cci-ghc.ca/modules/overview

Condo Talk

OCT

Don’t Wait Until it Breaks: The Risks of Deferred Repairs

Strikes, Spares & Condo Affairs - Annual General Meeting

NOV

October 20, 2026 - Webinar 12:00 – 1:00 pm

November 6, 2026 - 11:30 am - 3:00 pm

Condo Talk

NOV

Think 30 Years is Enough? Think Again How Well Funded is Your Reserve?

Webinar

NOV

Lawyers, Guns & Money Condo Legislation Cases

Condo Talk

DEC

November 10, 2026 - Webinar 12:00 – 1:00 pm

November 12, 2026 - 7:00 - 9:00 pm

December 8, 2026 - Webinar 12:00 – 1:00 pm

The Collection Toolkit: Liens, Chargebacks, and Power of Sale

30 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Condo News | FALL 2026

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting of the Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute will be held at 12:00 pm on Friday, November 6, 2026 at Splitsville, 1525 Stone Church Road, Hamilton, ON. The AGM features the annual report from your board of directors, as well as the election of new directors. Members will also receive a report on the chapters financials for the year ending June 30, 2026.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: Splitsville Hamilton 1525 Stone Church Road East, Hamilton, Ontario 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Registration, Welcome Drinks & Snacks

12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute Annual General Meeting

12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Lunch & Bowling

Nominations were open to the membership on July 13, 2026. There are three (3) positions open for election at this year’s Annual General Meeting, and two nominations were received. To view current nominees, CLICK HERE. Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute is putting a new spin on its AGM and inviting members to join us for Strikes, Spares & Condo Affairs — an afternoon that brings together Chapter business, great food, networking and a little friendly competition on the bowling lanes. If you would like to attend the full event, please CLICK HERE. If you are interested in attending ONLY the Annual Meeting portion of the event from 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm which is free to all members, please CLICK HERE to register. The full meeting package will be sent to those members that register for the AGM in advance of the meeting date. Please be sure to print the material to bring with you to the meeting, packages WILL NOT be provided onsite. The GHC-CCI office must receive your membership renewal by October 30, 2026, to process it in time for the AGM. Those not received by this date will not be on the most current membership list and will not be entitled to vote at the AGM. Please note that all members must be paid members to be eligible to vote. Can’t attend in person? Members who cannot attend in person are entitled to be represented at such meeting and vote by means of a proxy appointed to them. The proxy must be completed and returned by 5 p.m. on October 23, 2026. Click here for Instrument of Proxy Please Note: Management firms must provide one signed proxy form per individual condominium corporation they hold the voting rights for. One signed proxy with a list of condominiums attached will NOT be accepted. Condo News | FALL 2026

CCI Golden Horseshoe Chapter is pleased to announce sponsorship opportunities for the Fall 2026 CondoTalks Series — a popular educational program bringing together condominium directors, owners, managers, and industry professionals for engaging discussions on important condominium topics. Webinar sponsorship benefits include: • Company logo on all e-blasts • Web banner on event page • Logo on Survey email • Recognition from the moderator and on social media This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your organization, connect with an engaged condominium audience, and support continued education within the condominium community.

CondoTalk Bulk Deal Available Single CondoTalk Sponsorship: $400.00 + HST per session

Sponsor the Full 4-Part CondoTalk Series: $1,300.00 + HST (discounted package rate)

Fall 2026 CondoTalk Sessions:

32 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

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Tool Talk

Tool Talk The mandate for the Professional Partners Committee has always been to promote and grow a network of trusted professionals for the benefit of all CCI members. To that end much of our focus has been organizing networking events where we bring together our business partners with our CCI members. The majority of these events are planned as educational seminars where our professionals present on a wide variety of topics that the Committee feels will benefit our membership. The Tool Talk series of videos will provide some behind the scenes views of our professionals to highlight a few of the many services our experts provide to their condo clients. The idea is for these short videos (3 to 4 minutes each), to give our membership a behind the scenes look at our experts at work. Many of these clips will be a view of activities/operations which may never have been seen/witnessed by our members before. Some of the first videos will focus on engineering, contracting and emergency/ disaster response. The video clips will be uploaded to the CCI Golden Horseshoe website for easy viewing access and a library of multiple topics/insights will be created. We hope the clips will provide a fun and interesting look “behind the curtain” with our professionals while also educating the viewers on the methods, materials, operations utilized to inspect, resolve and repair typical problems being faced by condominiums within our community. You can review our current library of videos here:

View Tool Talk Videos As always, the committee welcomes input from our members. If anyone has a suggestion for one of our videos, please feel free to reach out to us at admin@cci-ghc.ca.

34 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

The Ron Danks The Ron DanksAward Leadership

Synergy Partners Building Engineers

Leadership Award

Through the Ron Danks Leadership Award, the Golden Horseshoe Chapter recognizes its true condominium board member leaders; those individuals that have gone that extra mile, time and time again, to help their condominium community. If your condominium corporation is a current GHC member and you know of a current or past board member that exemplifies the spirit of what leadership means, email outlining why the candidate is worthy of this recognition. Your submission should be of sufficient detail for

Evaluations Reserve Fund Studies Performance Audits Component Evaluations Garages, Balconies, Roofs, Walls, Windows, Paving

Building Repair and Renewal Design and Tendering Contract Administration Construction Review

the judging panel to want to know more. Simply being a long-time board member is not sufficient. What has your candidate done to make a difference? Submit your nomination online at https://cci-ghc.ca/ who-is-cci/ron-danks-leadership-award.

Contact: Matthew Gelowitz mgelowitz@synergypartners.ca

647. 881. 6252

Expanding Our Reach with a New Office in Burlington 5515 North Service Road, Suite 302

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If you have a suggestion for one of our videos, please feel free to reach out to us at admin@cci-ghc.ca Condo News | FALL 2026

Showcase Your Community in “Condo News” — and be Considered for Condo of the Year! Condo News VOL. 16, NO.4

The Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute is inviting condominium corporations across our region to be featured in upcoming issues of Condo News Magazine. This is your opportunity to highlight the unique story of your community — and to be considered for our annual Condo of the Year Award.

DIGITIZED

Why submit an article? • Showcase your community to members across the Golden Horseshoe Region • Celebrate your board, residents, and volunteers • Highlight achievements, improvements, or innovative approaches • Share lessons learned that can help other condominium communities • Build pride and engagement within your corporation • Be automatically entered into consideration for Condo of the Year What to include in your article: • A brief history of your condominium • What makes your community unique • Recent projects, challenges, or successes • Photos of your building and community spaces • Any initiatives that demonstrate leadership, innovation, or collaboration Our editorial team is happy to assist with structure or editing if needed. If your condominium would like to be featured — or if you have questions about the process — email admin@ghc-cci.ca.

Golden Horseshoe Chapter of the Canadian Condominium Institute VOL. 4 • SPRING

2020

Feature Condo:

GARTH TRAI LS THE VILLAG E

Coronavirus (COVID -19) and Condos – Meetings, Messag ing and Maintenance Is Your Condom inium Ready for the New Construction Act? The Differences and Risks betwee n Open and Closed Irrigati and Regularly Review on Systems ed Systems CONDOMINIUM INSURANCE: Market Crisis or Market Correction? Spring Condo Walkab out 20 John Street, Grimsby Spring Condo: Clean Up Feature - A Landscaper’s Perspective Preparing for the Annual Audit of Your Condominium’s Financial Statements condo has become Our Valuable Lesson to be proud of, home s fromaAmlani et al v. York Condo. Corp. No. 473 not just a building.

FEATURE CONDO

Every condominium has a story worth telling. Whether it’s a major project you’ve completed, a successful community initiative, a sustainability effort, or simply the culture that makes your building special, Condo News is the perfect platform to share it.

| SUMMER 2012

NN#151

2020 Winner

20 John Street, Grimsby

2021 Winner

that I atways persevered. Our first AGM has made We really cially during this Pandemic, story tended was in October 2017. it is to ur home is a quaint, three had been everyone realize how important aren’t sure if official AGM’s concrete block building tucked surround you It was at the live where the people who in properly called in the past. Alback in on John Street difference becare about you and your well-being. faces a 2017 AGM we learned the ofneighbour, Grimsby. The rear of the building your on in management ways checking FEATURE CONDO running tween having a property just like mature woodland with a small condominium fering help in any way needed, Feature Condo Creek which company to manage your creek - part of the 40 Mile : Dundas Distric The meeting family. t Lofts - “The The spring is over private management. it has 514” runs right through Grimsby. was held on Being new to condo living, begin to was an absolute disaster. It is necessary to beautiful watching the trees what to eyes our building – a our opened of as the third-floor lobby . It bloom, however the fall is spectacular manage and operate a condominium chair or stand theme. winown and your trees the bring from with a unit, the colour bursts owners who means working together as you think There were only a handful of experiand ter is like a wonderland!! Can members Board through of a team rest of your attended – most of whom talked important of a better place to spend the of attenenced Management. The most the entire meeting. The lack and always aging days? We can’t. to the fact fact is to listen, have patience ly 46 years dance was apparently due difficult The building is approximate were also a try to find ways to work through concrete that all previous meetings Use hard old. Originally built as a 40-unit decisions – problem solving. 2001 a condisaster. accomplish block apartment building. In Presiwork and perseverance to the building took notes to review later. The I convert to decided tractor with the Vice your goals. bedrooms dent ran the meeting along through into 29 units each with two on the BOD Our Condominium has been baths. Our President who both had been we have alone bath and some with two many challenging times, and espefriendly caring family atmosphere,

Dundas Distr

ict Lofts - “The

Condo News – SPRING

hat do you do with a beloved schoolhouse that has been left empty for a number of years? Well in the case of the Dundas District school,

FEATURE CONDO

2021

514”

edifice into a comfort able but high-en d living space. There were many hurdles to jump to enable

front façade of the building had to be maintained in its original design for historical purposes. In 2015 brothers won a Heritage the Valvasori Property Developer Recognition perspective. Addition Award from the ally, City of The Valvasori Group there were regulati Hamilton for the (brothers Dave & ons to abide by transformation of Mike) purchased from the Hamilton Conserv this building. Most of this iconic property the units were sold ation Authority at the western end & Niagara Escarpm before the develop of King Street in ent Commission ers even Dundas from the Hamilto because of the proximit mal marketing effort! launched a forn District school y to the Niagara The first resident board in 2009. The school escarpment, Spencer s moved in during with its Gothic feaCreek and a busy the summer of 2014. tures, built in 1929 railway track. Several Restorations such just conditions had to das Peak and Webster below the Dunbe met before the covered by a TARIAN as this are not ’s & Tew’s Falls, had permits for construc warranty but the gone from being tion were even builder stayed on an elementary school issued. Finally, in site for the first year to 2012 a high school and the transformation of occupancy, fixing finally a middle school. of the propert issues that arose Along the way there y began. and serving as property had been many management. In building addition fact, By early 2013 the they still show up s and renovations internal design had to lend a hand or which made for a challeng been developed. help to solve a problem The plan included e to develop the when needed. Once transstructure into what forming the site the property was was envisioned. into 44 individu registered, owners The al units award-winning with a gym, the elected a 3-perso developers, along addition of 35 individu n Board to work with innovative and al garages (space with the developer / visionary designe for 48 vehicles property manage rs and ) that architects, planned r while matched the original we transitio ned to a property to transform this building and balmanageconies for the side ment company. and rear units. The 12 As we have learned GOLDEN HORSESH OE CHAPTER together and OF THE CANADIA

you sell it to a capable the transformation Glen develop Forest er and transforns to a residential building of the property m it of into high end condofrom the municFeature Condo: The Mansio miniums. ipality zoning

’ The ‘Mansions of Forest Glen

2022 Winner

N CONDOM

INIUM INSTITUT

2023 Winner Two condominium corporations joined by a common entrance and share many of the common amenities.

12 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER

FEATURE CONDO

Feature Cond

o: Hearthstone

8111 Forest Glen Dr. Niagara Falls, Ontario

OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM

by the Lake

INSTITUTE

Hearthstone by the Lake

2024 Winner

16 GOLDEN HORSESH

HCC #377...O ne of Burlington’ s best kept and most bea utiful condominiu m properties. OE CHAPTER

OF THE CANADIA

N CONDOMINIUM

INSTITUTE

Winners in previous issues of Condo News

36 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

Are you still stressing over holding your Annual General Meeting virtually? Can’t find a service provider to host your meeting? Are you a member of Golden Horseshoe Chapter – Canadian Condominium Institute?

Yes! THEN WE CAN HELP!! The GHC-CCI will offer our technical Golden Horseshoe Chapter will supply expertise and the use of our Zoom the following: platform to host your AGM. You will • Zoom Pro platform (including polling still be required to prepare everything through Zoom) needed for your AGM: • Conference call number for those not • PowerPoint able to connect through zoom • Script • Any confidential voting requirements • Host through an online survey link • Collection of proxies • A technician to run the event in the • Minute taker background who will: • Polling/voting questions and choice of - set Up link and any recording answers requirements • Distribution of your AGM package - set Up polls • Provide GH with name/emails of - launch Polls and surveys partici-pants - provide tech help/troubleshooting

This service is available for smaller condos as follows: 1-19 Units - $250 + HST 20 – 49 Units - $350 + HST 50 – 80 Units - $450 + HST This service is only being offered to small condominium units that are members of GHC-CCI and is on a first come, first served basis. If you are interested in using our services please email us at admin@ghc-cci.ca with the date and time of your AGM, and we will get back to you with our availability.

Thank you for being a member of GHC-CCI! Condo News | FALL 2026

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Thank you

Advertising in Condo News magazine is more than a placement—it’s a strategic connection. The publication is a trusted resource for condo boards, property managers, and industry professionals who turn to it for insight, education, and reliable service recommendations. Featuring your brand here puts you directly in front of the decisionmakers who shape the condominium community. Beyond visibility, your presence in Condo News sends a powerful message. It signals that your organization is not just serving the condo sector, but actively supporting its growth, education, and best practices. That kind of engagement builds confidence and credibility—qualities boards and managers look for when choosing longterm partners. This is a focused, cost-effective way to elevate your profile, deepen relationships, and remain top of mind with those who matter most in the condo industry.

Explore the available options on our website at:

https://cci-ghc.ca/news/ advertise-with-us 38 GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE

to our Advertisers! Without you, this publication would not be possible! Atrens-Counsel Insurance Brokers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Brown & Beattie Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Condominium Financial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Detail Roofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Larlyn Property Management Ltd.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Millards Chartered Professional Accountants. . . . 33 MRCM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 RJC Engineers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 SimpsonWigle Law LLP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Synergy Partners Building Engineers. . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The Beaudry Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Elia Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Email Banner

Golden Horseshoe Chapter

We welcome article submissions on topics such as: • Technical guidance and best practices • Legal, financial, or regulatory updates • Maintenance, operations, and building performance • Case studies or lessons learned • Emerging trends and innovations in the condo industry

Condo News is one of the most widely read and trusted publications in the

condominium sector across the Golden Horseshoe region. Your expertise, insights, and practical knowledge help educate condominium directors, managers, and professionals while showcasing the depth of experience within our Business and Professional Partner community, and we are inviting our valued Partner members to contribute articles. Articles should be educational and non‑promotional in nature, and include the authors name, short bio, and headshot. If you are interested in contributing to an upcoming issue, please send your proposed topic or draft article to admin@ghc-cci.ca. Thank you for your continued support of CCI Golden Horseshoe and for helping us deliver high‑quality, relevant content to our condominium community.

Condo News | FALL 2026

Connect with Us...

VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.cci-ghc.ca

GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER OF THE CANADIAN CONDOMINIUM INSTITUTE Box 37, Burlington, Ontario L7R 3X8 Tel: 905-631-0124 / Toll Free 1-844-631-0124 Fax: 416-491-1670 • Email admin@cci-ghc.ca