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First time strata owners

Publication date: January 21, 2026

Strata housing is a popular choice in B.C. for the convenience, security, added amenities and good value. About one quarter of B.C. residents live in strata housing.

There are many different kinds of strata from strata-titled duplexes to apartment-style condos, even single family homes in "strata subdivisions" (bareland strata properties).

It is important to consider the lifestyle and financial responsibilities when deciding if strata living is the right choice for you. All strata corporations, regardless of size, must comply with strata legislation.

Strata developments are in many ways micro communities that require working with your neighbours to manage your strata corporation and common property under the democratic framework of strata legislation.

The strata corporation will have bylaws and rules, which affect the strata lot owners’ rights and responsibilities and set out what the strata corporation will be like to live in. Different strata will often have different bylaws and rules.

The financial responsibilities for owning a strata property are similar to owning a house, but strata owners also share common expenses for property and assets they own with other strata lot owners including repair and maintenance and strata corporation insurance. Strata owners must pay strata fees and sometimes special levies.

Several organizations offer useful information for strata buyers to review:

  • People's Law School "Buying a Condo or other Strata Homes" in BC
  • BC Housing's Licensing & Consumer Services provides practical information to help consumers make informed decisions about their new home purchase, including strata housing. Learn more in "Buying a New Home in British Columbia: A Consumer Protection Guide" (PDF) and on this webpage buying and selling a new home with many resources.
  • The BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) provides useful information to help buyers understand procedures normally involved in the purchase of a home, to recognize the significance of the documents a buyer will encounter, and to understand the role of other people who may be involved in the transaction. Learn more on the BCFSA webpage: Buying a Home.

Find it fast: a site map listing all the strata housing webpages.

The information on this website about strata housing is provided for the user’s convenience as a basic starting point; it is not a substitute for getting legal advice. Learn more about the site’s purpose and limits. The content on this website is periodically reviewed and updated by the Province of British Columbia as per the date noted at the top of each page.

Having the help of professionals such as realtors, mortgage brokers, home inspectors and lawyers knowledgeable in strata matters will make the process of selling or buying a home easier. Professionals can help answer questions and provide reliable information.

Owners and residents in all strata properties must the follow the Strata Property Act and regulations as well as the strata's bylaws and rules.

Learn more on this website:

Strata associations offer useful information for strata owners and council members. 

  • CHOA (Condominium Home Owners Association of BC) 
  • VISOA (Vancouver Island Strata Owners Association) 
  • CCI BC Chapter (Canadian Condominium Institute)

Find it fast, a site map listing all the strata housing webpages.