Gather the current building documents
Ask the strata manager or council for the documents that apply to the proposed work. Explain whether you are considering flooring, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, electrical changes or other alterations. The exact requirements depend on your strata and the project.
Do not rely on a neighbour’s older renovation as proof that the same approach is acceptable now. Keep a record of the information supplied and any questions still awaiting a response.
Separate the different review processes
Strata review and municipal permitting address different matters. Your project may also involve landlord, insurance, professional or trade requirements. Ask the responsible parties which approvals and documents are needed, who prepares them and who submits them.
Use the municipal link on your city guide to find the appropriate starting point. Where a place name covers more than one municipality, confirm the actual authority for the property.
Coordinate the proposed work with the building
Existing plumbing, mechanical systems, structure and common property can affect the options. Identify what requires verification before detailed design or purchasing. Ask the appointed professionals to explain which parts of the proposed work are within their scope.
Flooring and other alterations may have building-specific requirements. Obtain the applicable information in writing and check product documentation with the parties responsible for approval and installation.
Plan the day-to-day logistics
- Permitted work hours and contractor access
- Elevator reservations and material deliveries
- Protection and cleaning of common areas
- Waste and material storage arrangements
- Any required shutoff coordination
- The building’s contact and communication process
Keep the project information consistent
Make sure the owner, designer, contractor and strata are discussing the same proposed work. If selections or drawings change, ask whether an earlier review needs updating. Retain approvals, current documents and supplier information together.
This guide is a planning aid. Confirm your obligations with the strata, municipality and appropriate professionals for your property.
Related questions.
Does strata approval replace a building permit?
No. They are separate processes. Ask the strata and relevant municipality about the requirements for the proposed work, and confirm who handles each submission.
Can design begin before all approvals are complete?
Early planning can help define the proposed work and information needed for review. Distinguish that planning from authorization to purchase or construct, and confirm the sequence with the project team.
Primary sources: Province of BC: common and limited common property; BC Strata Property Act and Standard Bylaws. Check the strata’s actual bylaws; they may differ from the Standard Bylaws.
This is general editorial planning guidance, not a project-specific design, legal, engineering or permitting opinion. Confirm your project’s requirements with the appropriate professionals and authorities.