Strata document review — the actual checklist.

A thorough review takes 2-4 hours minimum. Skim-only review takes 30 minutes and misses everything material. Hire a strata document review service (get a quote) if you don't have time or experience — particularly for 6-figure CRF balances or complex buildings.

A one-time fee charged to all owners to fund a major repair not covered by the contingency reserve fund. Common causes include building envelope remediation, elevator replacement and insurance-deductible top-ups — and the per-unit cost depends on the building, its size and the work involved.

Look for: 'leaky condo' history pre-2000, recent rainscreen remediation, history of water ingress in council minutes, depreciation report flagging exterior cladding repairs. Coquitlam has many 1990s buildings with envelope history — confirm any pre-2002 building's remediation status.

A healthy CRF is one that is adequately funded against the depreciation report's near-term capital needs, not just the legal minimum. Compare the CRF balance and annual contribution against what the depreciation report recommends, especially if it shows imminent major work.

Yes — that is exactly what subject to review of strata documents protects. Within the subject period, you can collapse the deal if the documents reveal issues you cannot accept.

Varies by building. Some allow unlimited pets; some allow 1-2 pets with weight restrictions; some allow no pets. Read the bylaws. Under the Strata Property Act, a new pet bylaw generally doesn't apply to a pet already living in the unit when the bylaw passes.

BC's 2022 amendments removed most strata rental restrictions, but stratas can still impose 'short-term rental' restrictions (e.g., no Airbnb under 30 days). If you plan to rent your unit, confirm current rules.

For your first strata purchase or for buildings with complex finances or known issues, yes. A professional review is inexpensive insurance against a large surprise.

Operating fund = day-to-day expenses (cleaning, landscaping, insurance, basic maintenance). Contingency Reserve Fund (CRF) = saved-up money for major repairs and replacements. Buildings with healthy CRFs are less likely to need special assessments; buildings with depleted CRFs are more likely to levy them.

It depends on the building more than the city. Fees reflect a building's age, amenities (pool, concierge, gym), insurance and reserve needs — check the current budget and Form B for any unit you're considering.