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Ontario Extends Shutdown

Ontario’s emergency and stay at home order has now been extended until at least May 20, 2021. The province has also added some new enforcement measures and has “tweaked” the activities that are permitted (as essential) during the stay-at-home period. What are some of the key implications for condominium corporations?

Key implications of the “enhanced” Stay-at-Home Order for Condominium Corporations

Previous requirements in relation to wearing of masks (in interior common spaces) and personal protective equipment (for certain employees) are continuing.

Indoor gatherings or meetings are still not permitted (except between members of the same household).

Similar restrictions now also apply to outdoor gatherings or meetings (which are now similarly not permitted except between members of the same household).

The previous screening and self-screening requirements are continuing.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES (which are therefore permitted to continue) include the following:

  • Landscaping services.
  • Security services for residences, businesses and other properties.
  • Courier, postal, shipping, moving and delivery services.
  • Maintenance, repair and property management services that manage and maintain the safety, security, sanitation and operation of institutional, commercial, industrial and residential properties and buildings are allowed.
  • ESSENTIAL construction projects are also otherwise permitted.  Essential construction projects include residential construction activities or projects and related services”.

So in summary: Required maintenance and repair projects are permitted (for all buildings). In addition: Other residential construction projects are permitted.

Having said the foregoing, we repeat our advice that it is the Board’s mandate (in each case) to consider all of the relevant factors (including the nature of the proposed work, the nature of the community and its residents, and all related safety issues) and to decide whether or not any particular project (whether in a unit or on the common elements) is to be permitted to continue.

Short-Term Rentals are only to be provided to individuals who are in need of housing.

Open Houses (for real estate sales) are not permitted. Properties can only be shown by appointment.

All Indoor and Outdoor Recreational Amenities must be kept closed.

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