If you’re buying a strata property in British Columbia such as a condo or townhouse, you’ll go through a series of steps during the real estate conveyancing process. As a notary public, I guide clients through each stage, from reviewing the Form B: Information Certificate to preparing closing documents.
One important set of materials you’ll receive before moving in is the strata “welcome package.” While this package isn’t part of the formal legal forms, it contains practical information that will help you settle into your new home with ease.
The welcome package is intended to help you understand how your building or complex is run and make your move-in as smooth as possible. While the exact contents vary between strata corporations, you can usually expect to find:
- Contact Information – Details for the strata management company, emergency numbers, and your strata council.
- Move-In Instructions – Guidelines for booking elevators, paying move-in fees, and rules for moving furniture or large items.
- Access Information – How to obtain keys, fobs, garage remotes, and any entry codes.
- Strata Rules and Bylaws – A copy of the governing documents that outline what is and isn’t allowed in your building or complex.
- Forms and Applications – Parking and storage locker assignment forms, pet registration forms, and renovation request forms.
- Monthly Fee Payment Instructions – How to set up payments for your monthly strata fees and any other charges.
- Waste and Recycling Guidelines – Pickup schedules and rules for garbage, recycling, and compost disposal.
If you’re buying a condo or townhouse in BC, it’s a good idea to review your welcome package as soon as you receive it. This will help you avoid surprises, understand your responsibilities, and get familiar with the building’s procedures.
Every complex handles the delivery of the welcome package differently. Some provide us the welcome package electronically before completion. Some email them to you. Some physically deliver them to the new owner. Some mail them to the new owner. If you do not receive the welcome package, please reach out to your strata management company.
If you have questions about your welcome package or any of the strata documents you receive, your notary can help explain them so you can move in with confidence.