What renovations are allowed in condos?
Want to Renovate Your Condo? Here’s What You Can and Can’t Touch — Fast, Clear Rules That Save Time and Money.
Quick answer
You can renovate inside your unit but not everything. Cosmetic changes like paint, flooring (often), cabinets, and fixtures are usually allowed. Structural changes, modifications to plumbing, electrical, or anything that affects common elements or building systems usually need approval — sometimes formal permission from the condo board and city permits.
Why this matters when selling condos
Buyers ask, buyers worry. If your renovation follows condo rules and permits, it increases value and speeds sale. If it doesn’t, you risk costly undoing, fines, or sale delays. Use the rules to sell faster and for more.
What you can change (typical, low risk)
- Paint, trim, and non-load-bearing wall finishes
- Replace flooring (check noise rules for hardwood vs carpet)
- Replace kitchen cabinets, counters, and appliances
- Replace bathroom fixtures (toilets, sinks, taps)
- Lighting fixtures that don’t affect wiring
These are usually allowed but always check your condo’s declaration, rules, and maintenance standards first.
What needs condo board approval or permits
- Removing or moving walls (even inside your unit) — structural or not
- Any change to plumbing or HVAC that ties into building systems
- Changes to electrical that connect to common panels
- Installing new flooring that increases noise transfer (many condos require acoustic underlay)
- Modifying windows, balconies, or exterior elements
- Altering common elements or exclusive use common areas
Board approval can require drawings, engineer reports, vendor insurance, and deposits.
Permits and city rules
Condo rules are separate from city permits. Even if the board says yes, you may still need municipal permits for structural, electrical, or plumbing work. Always confirm with your city building department before starting.
How to get approval fast (3-step checklist)
- Read the condo declaration and rules. Find the alteration rules and required forms.
- Prepare a simple scope: drawings, contractor insurance, timeline, and noise mitigation plan.
- Submit to the condo manager and board. Follow up. Offer to meet and explain how you protect building systems. Quick, clear applications get signed faster.
Document everything — this helps when selling condos
Keep permits, board approvals, and contractor receipts in a folder. Buyers’ lawyers and agents will ask. Clear documentation removes doubts and boosts sale price.
Final take — sell with confidence
Renovations can add value, but only when done by the rules. Want a fast sale with maximum return? Follow the condo rules, get permits, and keep the paperwork tidy.
For local market help, contact Tony Sousa, Realtor. Email: tony@sousasells.ca | Phone: 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca
Keywords: condo renovations, allowed renovations, condo board approval, permits, selling condos, condominium rules, Toronto condos
