Types of Condominiums


Conventional Condominiums

A conventional condominium is the most common form of condominium. It typically refers to a condominium unit that is located within a building. Conventional boundaries are identified by referring to floors, walls, and ceilings, as opposed to markings on a plot of land.

Owners of conventional condominiums have full (freehold) ownership of everything inside the unit based on the boundaries set out in the condominium plan. In some cases, a unit’s exterior windows and doors are part of the unit, and in some cases they are considered common property. Check the condominium plan and bylaws to determine what is part of the unit and what is common property.

Common property in conventional condominiums may include air conditioning, plumbing, sprinkler systems, elevators, fitness centres, pools, hallways, lobbies, and exterior spaces like gardens.


Bare Land Condominiums

A bare land condominium unit is an actual plot of land that may or may not already be developed.

Owners of bare land condominiums have full (freehold) ownership of everything inside the unit’s land boundaries, which may include a house, garage, trees, and shrubs. If the unit has been developed, a Real Property Report will show the unit’s boundaries and the location of all structures within the boundaries.

Owners are responsible for maintaining everything inside the boundaries of their unit, which makes bare land condo ownership more like traditional home ownership. Owners are responsible for shoveling snow, landscaping, and making exterior repairs (i.e. replacing the roof and siding). However, in some cases, these responsibilities may be transferred to the condominium corporation. Where the corporation is responsible, the exterior property becomes managed property. This is not the same as common property since the owner continues to keep his or her freehold ownership of the managed property.

Common property in bare land condominiums will vary depending on the type of development. It may include sidewalks, roads, parks, and/or recreational facilities like pools or golf courses.