Strata living can be an excellent choice, offering access to shared facilities, reduced individual expenses, and a built-in community environment. Yet, with shared ownership and collective decision-making, disagreements are almost inevitable. Across British Columbia, whether in Vancouver, Surrey, or the Fraser Valley, strata disputes are one of the most frequent challenges residents face, and they can escalate quickly without the right approach.
At Sorensen Truong LLP, our team supports strata councils, property managers, and individual owners in addressing these conflicts with clarity, fairness, and cost-effective solutions. Below, we highlight the most common types of strata disputes and provide practical guidance for resolving them effectively.
Common Strata Disputes in British Columbia
1. Noise Complaints in Strata Buildings
Noise disputes are among the most common issues in BC strata properties. Whether it’s late-night gatherings, barking dogs, or construction work, noise can quickly disturb the quiet enjoyment of neighbouring units. What qualifies as “unreasonable noise” is usually defined in the strata bylaws, but interpretation can vary between buildings. In cities like Vancouver, Surrey, and Abbotsford, these complaints often escalate to the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) when informal discussions fail.
2. Pet Restrictions and Animal Bylaws
Many strata corporations in BC have bylaws restricting or banning pets altogether. Conflict often arises when owners feel these bylaws are outdated or discriminatory, particularly when it comes to service animals or emotional support pets. These disputes frequently involve questions about human rights protections and the enforceability of strata bylaws under the Strata Property Act.
3. Parking and Storage Locker Disputes
Parking stalls and storage lockers are valuable in dense areas like Burnaby, Chilliwack, and the Fraser Valley, where space is limited. Strata disputes occur when residents park in unauthorized stalls, misuse visitor parking, or disagree about the assignment of storage lockers. These conflicts are intensified when strata plans and legal designations are unclear, often requiring legal review to resolve ownership or allocation rights.
4. Renovations and Alterations to Strata Units
Unit owners frequently want to update kitchens, bathrooms, or flooring, but when renovations affect common property—such as plumbing, structural walls, or electrical systems—approval from the strata council is required. Unauthorized renovations can result in fines, repair costs, or legal disputes. These conflicts are especially common in older strata buildings across BC, where maintenance concerns overlap with owner improvements.
5. Bylaw Enforcement and Compliance
Strata councils in British Columbia are legally responsible for enforcing bylaws. However, enforcement must be consistent and reasonable. Disputes often arise when some owners feel unfairly targeted or when councils fail to act against repeated violations. Many of these issues end up before the BC Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT), which has the authority to resolve conflicts about bylaw interpretation and enforcement.
6. Strata Fees and Special Levies in BC
Monthly strata fees are essential for maintaining common property, paying for insurance, and funding contingency reserves. Disputes arise when owners believe fees are too high, mismanaged, or when councils impose special levies for costly repairs such as roofing or building envelope projects. These financial disagreements are especially sensitive in Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver communities, where older strata buildings often require significant upgrades.
7. Common Property Maintenance Responsibilities
Disagreements over common property maintenance—from roof repairs and elevator breakdowns to landscaping and snow removal—are a frequent source of conflict. Owners may dispute whether the strata or the individual is responsible for certain repairs, especially when boundaries between common and limited common property are unclear. These issues often require interpretation of the strata plan and the Strata Property Act to determine responsibility.
Tips for Resolving Strata Disputes in BC
1. Review the Strata Bylaws and Rules
Start by carefully reviewing the strata corporation’s bylaws, rules, and the Strata Property Act. Often, the answer to a dispute lies in the governing documents.
2. Communicate Clearly and Early
Many conflicts can be avoided through respectful communication. Address issues directly with your neighbour or the strata council before they escalate.
3. Use Strata Meetings Effectively
Attend annual general meetings (AGMs) and special general meetings (SGMs) to voice concerns, propose changes, and stay informed about decisions affecting your strata community.
4. Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Mediation can be a cost-effective way to resolve disputes without the need for lengthy litigation. Neutral third parties can help both sides reach a fair solution.
5. Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) in BC
For many strata disputes, the CRT is the first step. It handles cases involving bylaw enforcement, strata fees, repairs, and other common issues—often online and at a lower cost than court.
6. Seek Legal Advice When Necessary
If disputes cannot be resolved through communication or the CRT, consulting a strata lawyer is the best way to protect your rights and interests. At Sorensen Truong LLP, we provide guidance on strata law, negotiations, and litigation when required.
Why Hire a Strata Lawyer in British Columbia?
Unresolved strata disputes can quickly impact more than just your day-to-day comfort—they can lower property values, create financial burdens, and strain relationships within your community. An experienced BC strata lawyer provides the legal knowledge and strategic guidance needed to protect your rights. Whether your matter involves bylaw enforcement, special levies, renovation approvals, or common property repairs, the right legal approach—through negotiation, mediation, or litigation—can make all the difference.
At Sorensen Truong LLP, we represent strata owners, councils, and property managers across Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and the Fraser Valley. Our lawyers deliver cost-effective strata dispute solutions tailored to the unique challenges of each case.
Conclusion
Strata living in British Columbia can often come with shared responsibilities and complex decision-making, which can easily lead to conflict. By knowing your legal rights, following the Strata Property Act, and seeking timely advice from a BC strata lawyer, you can resolve disputes efficiently while safeguarding your investment.
If you are facing a strata dispute in Vancouver or the Fraser Valley, contact Sorensen Truong LLP today. Our legal team is committed to achieving practical, effective resolutions for every strata conflict.
