Editor:
I am moving out of my strata unit after 10 years of strata living to another strata-like property.
When I first moved in, we had four out of 12 units rented. Landlords asked to do upgrades in the units either did below-par work or did not do anything. It was challenging for strata council because these upgrades were really to enhance quality of life and also building integrity. We had one landlord who put in sub-grade windows and later had mould in the unit. We subsequently voted for a no-rental bylaw.
Our insurance company last year did an extensive inspection and requested four pages of information, updates and individual unit electrical, plumbing inspections. One landlord did not complete the reports and inspections for their rental unit. This may impact our insurance eligibility the following year.
I have been on strata council for most of the 10 years. I am a retiree with no specific skills for this job. I care about the people and the buildings and have put in many, many hours and my own money into serving on council. Moving out will be a relief because as a small, self-managed strata, that is enough work for a volunteer council without adding forced rentals.
M. O'Connell
