Back to School – How Condos Can Prepare 

The new academic year has begun, and post-secondary students have geared up for another chapter of their academic journey, which often means moving into new accommodations. For condominium managers and condominium boards in Ontario, this influx of student renters presents both opportunities and challenges. Successfully integrating students into condominium communities requires careful planning and a proactive approach. How can condominiums smoothly navigate this transition period?

Understand the Demographics

Students often seek rental accommodations close to campus, which makes condominiums an attractive option as university/college residences can be in short supply. However, students can bring a unique set of needs and behaviors to a community. Understanding this demographic is crucial. Students may prioritize affordability, proximity to public transportation, and amenities that support their lifestyle. This knowledge can guide you in setting realistic expectations and planning for their integration into the community.

Establish Clear Rental Policies

Having clear and well-communicated policies is essential. Ensure these are included in the status certificate package so the owners have them in advance, and remind owners of their obligation under the Condominium Act to provide tenants with a copy of the condominium’s declaration, by-laws, and rules within 10 days of the lease beginning. The condominium’s rental policies should address issues specific to student renters, such as:

Noise: Students might have varying schedules compared to permanent residents who work more “regular” hours on top of the potential for late night gatherings. Clear guidelines on noise levels, especially during late-night hours, can help prevent conflicts. For example, if the students know that City Bylaw tickets can be hefty, it may encourage them to lower that music a tad!

Guest Policies: Students may host visitors more frequently. Ensure that policies regarding overnight guests and the number of visitors are clearly outlined to avoid misunderstandings. This can assist with parking issues as well.

Property Expectations: This depends on the condominium of course, but in a townhome, there is an expectation that the fronts and backs stay tidy. This can comment on garbage and bin storage and disposal, seasonal décor, window décor (those flag curtains may not be permitted), vehicles not being parked on the grass, excessive furniture not being left out, emptying mailboxes, etc. If your condominium is mid-rise or high rise, you may have limitations on what can be left out/hung on a balcony.

Maintenance: There may be some important maintenance items that despite living in a condominium, tenants should be aware of. Owners should ensure smoke alarms are operational, CO2 detectors if necessary and fire extinguishers are in place. Check on lint traps, furnace filters, shut-off valves and anything else that could use frequent checks.

Communication: Share relevant policies on community websites or digital message boards, or however information is shared.

Encourage Responsible Behavior

Often it is not just students that need reminders about responsible condominium living! You can provide information on:

Trash and Recycling: Make sure residents understand the waste management rules and schedules. Clear instructions can prevent issues with garbage and recycling.

Common Area Etiquette: Emphasize the importance of respecting shared spaces and communal facilities. This includes cleaning up after themselves and following the condominium’s rules regarding use of amenities.

Communication: Remind residents how to channel communication. Tenants should contact their landlord for unit issues, or for clarification on what they are responsible for vs landlord vs condominium corporation.

Conclusion

Navigating the integration of students into condominium communities requires a blend of clear policies, community-building efforts, and practical solutions to common issues. By understanding the needs of student renters and fostering a cooperative environment, condominium managers can create a harmonious living situation that benefits both students and long-term residents. Proactive planning and open communication are the cornerstones of a successful strategy for managing this unique tenant demographic.

 Sara Hicks, Vice President, Fiver Rivers Property Management Group, Explore our Previous Blogs.