The rules for co-ownerships have changed

Invited to the program Le 15-18 on ICI Première Radio-Canada, hosted by Annie Desrochers, Me Yves Joli-Cœur, emeritus lawyer and President of the Regroupement des gestionnaires et copropriétaires du Québec, provided particularly relevant insight into the recent evolution of the legal framework governing divided co-ownership in Québec. Titled The rules for co-ownerships have changed, this interview took place in the context of the entry into force of the regulation implementing Bill 16, a long-awaited reform that deeply modernizes management practices for buildings held in co-ownership.

Throughout the discussion, Me Joli-Cœur emphasized that these new provisions represent a decisive step toward strengthening rigor, foresight, and transparency within syndicates of co-ownership, while offering enhanced protection for current and future co-owners.

A structuring reform for syndicate governance

During the interview, Me Joli-Cœur reviewed several obligations that have now become essential for syndicates of co-ownership, including the implementation of a maintenance logbook for the building, the periodic completion of a contingency fund study, and the issuance of a Certificate attesting to the condition of the immovable held in co-ownership during transactions. These new tools are designed to foster a culture of long-term planning, ensure more rigorous financial management, and promote better circulation of information among all parties concerned.

He noted that these measures address well-documented issues observed over recent years, including chronic underfunding of certain buildings, the accumulation of unplanned major repairs, and the lack of reliable information during the purchase of a unit. The reform therefore helps reduce financial and structural risks while contributing to the preservation of collective real estate assets.

While these changes may raise questions or require adjustments to current practices, Me Joli-Cœur reiterated that they represent, above all, an investment in the durability and sound management of Québec co-ownerships.

An adaptation period rooted in education and accountability

The interview also highlighted the importance of the current transition period. Proper understanding and adoption of the new rules by directors, managers, and co-owners is essential to ensure effective implementation. Me Joli-Cœur stressed that these obligations should not be seen as simple administrative formalities, but rather as concrete tools to prevent crises, protect co-owners’ investments, and ensure the long-term sustainability of buildings.

In this spirit, he reaffirmed the central role of information, training, and support, priorities that align directly with the mission of the RGCQ. Equipping stakeholders in the sector remains one of the keys to successfully achieving this modernization.

An enlightening interview for all co-ownership stakeholders

This Radio-Canada intervention constitutes a valuable resource for anyone involved in co-ownership, whether co-owners, directors, managers, or industry professionals. It provides a clearer understanding of the objectives of the reform, the concrete changes it brings, and the best practices to adopt for compliance.

In a context where co-ownership continues to occupy a growing place in Québec’s residential landscape, this type of public discussion helps demystify new requirements and supports a smooth transition toward syndicates of co-ownership that are better structured, more transparent, and firmly oriented toward the future.

Listen to the full interview:
The rules for co-ownerships have changed, interview with Me Yves Joli-Cœur on Le 15-18, ICI Première.