Ontario Condo Law Blog : Toronto Condominium Lawyer & Attorney : Gardiner Miller Arnold Law Firm : Ontario, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener

COMMENTARY / ARTICLES

Condo boards spark flames by extinguishing smoking in their communities  http://bit.ly/uAAgXt  (via Condominium Insurance Law blog)

Is that new condo a good investment? - http://bit.ly/szy1CV - Excerpt from @BrianPersaud's must-read book for newbie condo buyers.

RT @CCIGHC: A Holiday Message from our Fair Tax Team! http://ow.ly/i/nuq6 < 12 days of Condo Christmas. Priceless.

Top 5 disadvantages of living in a brand new condo - http://bit.ly/AxC391 (via @AndrewLaFleur)

RT @CDJNEWS: Condo Board May be Negligent for not Filing Construction Defect Suit in a Timely Fashion http://t.co/4Uxda8Dp

Handling the jerk next door | MoneySense http://bit.ly/vuz7Zi < Good tips on solving neighbour problems fast.

RT @BusinessMN: Legal Matters: Condo/townhome living can lead to unusual disputes - http://bit.ly/rW9hb3 Annnd how!

New at CondoLawGuru: What Happens When Too Many Complain and No One Wants to Serve on the Board? http://bit.ly/s8RwWS

Mediation: Less expensive and just nicer than taking neighbors to court - http://bit.ly/uthS5F < Co-op/Condo mediation basics in @HabitatMag

Link to the OBOA's pamphlet on changes to the Ontario Building Code that are effective Jan. 1, 2012: http://bit.ly/y3uWvK

Policies, procedures, rules, regulations and resolutions: What’s the difference?? - http://bit.ly/Aoa22Y (via @CCALawyers blog)

Crunching #condo fee figures - http://bit.ly/AcE5Qs

RT @canetwork: Rewarding Incompetence: A Common Management Snafu http://bit.ly/At7slT < The Peter Principle is alive and well in condoland.

Condos have various energy saving management tools – Daily Commercial News:  http://bit.ly/xhlTrR

ONTARIO NEWS

Toronto auction of Muskoka condos causes more bitterness than buzz - http://bit.ly/vIbAWD

Investors fight to back out of Trump tower condo in #Toronto - http://bit.ly/tO62xJ

Angry Trump condo buyer wants out - http://bit.ly/uVb3Qq < Developer: "The world is not black and white" [except for our contract!].

Gadhafi son owns Toronto condo, National Post reports - http://bit.ly/soUpjE < Wonder whether being on the lam is against the condo rules.

Saadi Gaddafi's #Toronto condo frozen by Ottawa - http://natpo.st/zx18sW

Rush to get condo plans approved amid fears of #Toronto labour disruption  http://natpo.st/xji9A4

Condo developers fret over city work stoppage - http://bit.ly/zi4bUe (via @CBCToronto) < Will bldg inspectors be affected too?

Most Ontarians want smoking banned in apartments and condos: Survey - Barrie Examiner - http://bit.ly/tAF6fO

Distressed man who lost condo then posted pics of councillor w/ word “murder” meant no harm, court rules - http://bit.ly/x2Vqzn

In 2010, I blogged abt the lawsuit that sealed the fate of that "distressed man" man who lost his condo. Sad case. http://bit.ly/yIfV9G

Speculators, foreign investors, betting on #Toronto condo market http://natpo.st/vlznrH < Condos are "pockets of air in the sky."

Most of $7.5B increase in Toronto's property tax base in 2011 came from new condos. Condo boom helps city’s finances: http://bit.ly/uWVwhU

One Bloor East reveals #Toronto's unquenchable thirst for condos http://bit.ly/AfGhm9   via  @globeandmail < A head-shaker!

The Star: 2011 is Toronto’s year of the highrise - http://bit.ly/skyd0B

CANADA NEWS

Edmonton condo owners left hanging in reno dispute - CBC News http://bit.ly/rUiJTH < Looks like a failure to communicate!

New strata property regulations introduced in B.C. - http://bit.ly/tjwjwv

Evicted mom in BC plans to fight ruling requiring sale of her unit -http://bit.ly/xas8bk (H/T: @CANetwork)

US / INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Palos, IL Condo Board Race Gets Oily, say Police - http://bit.ly/vnynIe

Foreclosed Michigan condominium a health hazard and danger to others - http://bit.ly/ungExR

Epic Businessweek exposé on weird condo fraud: Las Vegas real estate scam goes bust - http://on.today.com/tLpCxV

Hoarders strike again. MA condo condemned after 1.5 year dispute - http://bit.ly/umUyln  (H/T @247Condo)

Former property manager admits embezzling more than $400K from NJ condo association | The Republic http://bit.ly/rrxbga

FL: As community squabbles, Hanukkah begins http://bit.ly/tXsRcG

NC: Hoarding may have trapped man in deadly condo fire http://bit.ly/uhsB28 

RT @canetwork Interesting look at former condo attorney, now politician, in Illinois (author's obviously not a fan) 

Illinois circuit court judge candidate haunted by his gig as a condo lawyer; not remembered fondly by unit owners - http://bit.ly/zWTAIU

MAD TALK Gun etiquette: "Many condo association board members are interested in prohibiting concealed handguns... http://bit.ly/tX95eL

Disbarred FL attorney says his law firm had condo for sex with prostitutes » http://bit.ly/xb5x8w < Their idea of a work-life balance fix?

Crooked FL lawyer provided condo, free sex for clients - http://bit.ly/vZPMMa < Well, the pundits tell professionals to offer value-adds!

Condo may be liable for mishandling service dog - http://bit.ly/xQUKgJ (via Courthouse News Service)

Chicago turns vacant condo buildings into affordable rentals - http://trib.in/AhichJ < 150 condos already being converted.

RT @f_andreone: Aussie #strata smokers have more worries ... http://bit.ly/zuf7dN < Smoking in condos under siege down under

'John Condo' charged with defrauding developers - South Florida Business Journal - http://bit.ly/AtGeeQ < Ha! Was his middle initial "Q."??

Philippine Chief Justice denies owning 45 condo units - http://bit.ly/zHm7am

Ontario News

YorkRegion Article: Condos cash in on cell antennas - http://bit.ly/pQ9etJ

Quiet riot: Condo developers catch on to the electric vehicle | National Post http://bit.ly/oDLurv

As condos get smaller, downsizing boomers fret: http://bit.ly/vtezGh (@Moneyville)

Muskoka Wharf puts condo-hotel units on auction block - Yourhome.ca http://bit.ly/w44Ehg

Going once, going twice ... Muskoka Wharf suites to be auctioned off - The Globe and Mail http://bit.ly/trNPjQ

Muskoka condo auction starting at $85,000 - Moneyville.ca http://bit.ly/soRNIv

Our #condo frenzy continues unabated. MT @BuzzBuzzHome: In Toronto there is a condo sold every 20 minutes!! INSANE! -> http://ow.ly/7kiNL

Condo tower to be built on dormant city-owned property http://natpo.st/tT6fnY < Good on #Toronto for cashing in on the condo frenzy.

RT @davidhyde2: Condo security guard shot on Toronto's harbourfront. Crime prevention should be a top priority in the condo environment globaltoronto.com/three+men+stab…

"Disposable" Condominiums

Toronto's glass condos face short lifespan, experts say - Toronto - CBC News http://bit.ly/spqOXz

Ontario should consider emergency change to building code on balcony glass: Report – http://bit.ly/sBGAAJ

Cdn Condominium Institute says planning, education, industry & govt initiatives needed to address glass tower issue: http://mwne.ws/vyJs2b

 What's the matter with Toronto's condos? | OpenFile http://bit.ly/vw1U4R

Canada News

MT @LawTimes: Tougher penalties for white-collar crime come now in force http://bit.ly/s8yedB < Restitution orders possible in fraud cases.

RT @strata101:  Council blames the manager; manager only takes council direction. Both need consequences for bad behavior: shar.es/bxfuk

Condo owners [waiting to reap the windfall of a multimilliondollar lawsuit] vote to rebuild http://bit.ly/sxPI9D < Good luck with that.

Calgary company's online tool helps businesses [and condos] avoid paper invoices and cheques: http://bit.ly/tsy2Q3

Montreal condo-building frenzy ‘not sustainable’ http://bit.ly/rybJX1

Newfoundland proclaims new condominium act - http://bit.ly/sAIMKI

Bank of Canada to condo investors: Possible correction ahead - http://bit.ly/slgtiF

US News

Lawyer pleads guilty in scheme to elect condo directors favoring construction lawsuits - ABA Journal   http://bit.ly/rHCSaZ

Developer linked to Playboy model to plead guilty to mail fraud - TheSunNews - http://bit.ly/utOsfu

RT @syladurantaye: NYTimes: Law firm's surprisingly stupid Halloween costumes make fun of their foreclosure clients. nyti.ms/utyk0s

Chris Brown moves out of condo; Neighbors say: Good riddance! http://bit.ly/vseyOQ

Proof that being nice doesn't always work: Charges laid after NY condo fails to end 6-yr rampage by alleged pervert. http://lohud.us/titYLN

HUD charges VA condominium association with discrimination over service animals: http://bit.ly/sJiqGf

Misc. Commentary / Articles

Arbitration becoming the tool of choice for construction dispute resolution – Daily Commercial News   http://bit.ly/onemkP

Get used to unfolding those condominium plans http://bit.ly/p2F5KTvia @LawTimes < Seismic shift in how lawyers handle condo conveyancing.

Nasty neighbours dispute resolved on the public purse: The lessons learned. http://bit.ly/v9xUBO < Good lesson for condo boards, too.

Ok. I won't wear dracula costume to client meeting. MT@lawyersweeklyca: Planning your Halloween costume? Some advice: http://bit.ly/nF74O2

RT @CondoandHOALaw: Failure to address elevator maintenance comes back to haunt Condo Association bit.ly/ru8kHe

RT @harry_fine: Toronto Sheriff not breaking 4 holidays 4 evictions this year. They can’t believe volume increase, say its cause tenants know all the tricks.

Condominium repair, maintenance are lucrative markets for construction – Daily Commercial News http://bit.ly/sFF53R

Annual Meetings 101 - http://bit.ly/vUVwLL < Good piece for AGM season by @TheCooperator mag.

Water leaks deliver flood of problems in condo maintenance – Daily Commercial News:  http://bit.ly/sn5Fu8

About condos and the blog entry that never dies - http://bo.st/t20X86 < How can well-meaning, sane people work effectively with a condo bd?

What makes bed bugs so resilient? Blame inbreeding. http://bit.ly/rBhqiL

Does your community ass'n have a social media policy? - College of Community Association Lawyers Blog:  http://bit.ly/uI1OPo

RT @chris_antipas: This couple had a two-dog condo problem - Moneyville.ca: bit.ly/sR7Qm6

2011 CCI-T/ACMO Condo Conference

See you at the condo conference! @GMALaw lawyers are featured at sessions 2A, 2B and 2C. http://fb.me/1rzyYNGWh

Get the mobile app for the 15th annual #CondoConference Nov 4-5 in Toronto: http://bit.ly/uAUaio

Condo Conference Features Sessions on Risk Management, Chaos, Environmental Issues http://mwne.ws/swVIEG

Hats off to @Associa for sponsoring the Night at the Races for the CCI/ACMO Toronto #condoconference!

RT @theMarcDonald: Met @chrisjaglowitz tonight. Handsome condo lawyer stud. Look out folks, he is kickin ass, and taking names.<Ha! u2 Marc.

Inspiring keynote by Frank O’Dea at #condoconference.

RT @theMarcDonald: Great presentation from Frank O'Dea, founder of second cup. Homeless to world changer - great story. #cci

RT @CCIGHC:  Great Conference and Tradeshow CCI Toronto and @ACMOnews we look forward to next year!

Ottawa Condo Rule Story

Rent to families only, condo tells landlords - http://bit.ly/w0rPIX < Rule unnecessary if declaration requires single family use.

Students feel discriminated by condo executives - Ottawa South Local Community News http://bit.ly/t8bVvs <Welcome to school of hard knocks.

YourOttawaRegion Article: Condo AGM postponed after students submit petition http://bit.ly/uIKA6v < Condos as the sandbox of democracy?

Students lose vote to overturn “discriminatory” condo rule http://bit.ly/sCHLDY

Ottawa condo board prez denies discrimination re single family use rule: http://bit.ly/sMgZVg

GMA in the news

RT @LawTimes: Focus: Liens a key option for condos http://twurl.nl/x8ihg3 < Notable quotes from GMA's Bob Gardiner.

Toronto #Remembrance Day ceremony as seen from @GMALaw office. Sun shining up Bay St onto cenotaph. Big crowd. http://yfrog.com/nw9hewyj

I'm featured in the recent CondoBusiness video report on condos using social media responsibly. http://lnkd.in/t9NnGd

Gerry Miller consulted in Hamilton Spec story on owners' obligation to pay condo common expenses by PAP.  http://fb.me/FAvRMlFJ

Chris Jaglowitz quoted in Sept 19 Law Times on NDP plan for the Condo Act and on growing power of condo voting bloc. http://fb.me/ODXtQ4eG

CHANNEL CONDO LOAN FRAUD

RT @syladurantaye: Equitable Groups says four fraudulent mortgages will cost it $14-million. In its last quarter, it earned $15-million.

Alert by @ACMOnews on alleged major loan fraud by local condo property mgmt executive  http://bit.ly/nfQcrb

#Toronto property manager bilked $20M in #condo fraud - thestar.com http://bit.ly/orpmc7 < Condo "loan" fraud, to be more precise.

Bangladeshi cheats $20 million in Toronto | | bdnews24.comhttp://bit.ly/mVECWe <Does this smack of national pride?

Toronto condo fraud claims mount - thestar.com   http://bit.ly/pakBk8 < It remains unclear whether the lender will actually pursue the condos.

@ACMOnews prez Dean McCabe discusses condo frauds and manager regulation on @CBCHereandNow:  http://bit.ly/n1AcmU

More articles from yesterday on the big condo fraud http://bit.ly/nrXzcza and http://bit.ly/poHTXi (via @CBCToronto)

Resident warned of condo fraud years ago - Toronto - CBC News http://bit.ly/mTUGE0

Toronto condo owners rally for better legal protection - thestar.com http://bit.ly/qcN3CQ

Alleged Toronto condo fraudster in Bangladesh - CBC News -http://bit.ly/rlo4hO

CCI-Toronto and @ACMONews speak out on the big Toronto #condo fraud - http://bit.ly/oQUnj4

Toronto News: Condo manager at centre of scandal seen in Bangladesh - thestar.com http://bit.ly/psVZYK

 ONTARIO NEWS

YorkRegion Article: Condos cash in on cell antennas http://bit.ly/pQ9etJ

Bidding wars erupt for prime rental condos - http://bit.ly/nLKoHU < Plenty of fuel to continue #Toronto's condo frenzy.

Skyscraper a Go for Sault Ste. Marie - http://bit.ly/qd5iG3 < This'll be the tallest highrise in Northern Ontario.

Toronto pools’ dirty secrets: Which club got 120 violations? http://bit.ly/or0Cuh < Some condos among the offenders.

Safety experts want tougher standards for pool operators - thestar.com http://bit.ly/pI4Y1Y < Wow. 10,000 infractions over 2 yrs.

Toronto contractor charged in $450K fraud – Daily Commercial News   http://bit.ly/qsriKf Condos, pick contractors wisely, check POs closely.

CANADA NEWS

Ft. McMurray condo owners vote on their next move - CTV Edmonton - http://bit.ly/p3cVZA

City to assume aging water/sewer infrastructure at troubled NWT condo after no-frills repairs by condo board - http://bit.ly/oJl2dZ

British Columbia holds consultation on tribunal-based dispute resolution model for condo squabbles. Survey/white paper: http://bit.ly/q79wpd

New Condominium Dispute Resolution Process | Access Nova Scotia | Government of NS: http://bit.ly/qRpRnp

Heritage minister backs private member bill to protect flying flags - http://bit.ly/ogxfSH < Feds should keep their noses out of condo biz.

Condemned: Penhorwood #condos in Ft McMurray collapsing from shoddy construction. Can gov't solve the problem? http://bit.ly/pj5sO8

U.S. NEWS

Chicago tackles budget shortfall by taxing condos for services not delivered « CondoFeed http://bit.ly/q7bqLy

RT @chris_antipas: Grandmother nearly loses condo to foreclosure after $4.70 fee balloons to nearly $3,000 .... floridatoday.com/article/201110…

Attorney unit owner wins condo association wastebasket war, uses $201K check to pay off mortgage - ABA Journal http://bit.ly/nMcjLV

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Condo refugees still shut out of ruined building in Fitchburg   http://bit.ly/oECT25

Condo vs. spoiled rich brats - Fight begins. Lawsuit offers view of sound and fury high above Boston Common - http://bo.st/q7x63t

COMMENTARY / ARTICLES / RESOURCES

LinkedIn sends me condo proprty mgr postings as "jobs you may be interested in." No thx, I'm too impatient. Hats off to mgrs for their work.

RT @FanshaweCE: Interested in Property Mgmt & Education? Consider ACMO's RCM Designation and the new ACMO Scholarship Program: http://ow.ly/5CDjw

RT @EricaBomb: Condo Tip: get on your board and have a say in how your $ is spent! Had my condo budget mtg tonite, we cut 9% off mgmt's proposed budget!

#Condo directors doing maintenance with no insurance (or at all) is dumb. Don’t break your leg caulking that window: http://bit.ly/o3iE7l

RT @tarleyrobinson: Do your homework before running for seat on HOA board - http://wapo.st/qduCwd > Check egos, self-interest at the door.

The Huffington Post’s New Devil – Home Owner Associations, via @CANetwork Blog:   http://bit.ly/mYbumQ

Mediation’s unique attributes give the process its mysterious power – Daily Commercial News   http://bit.ly/nuNclq

RT @lifehacker: Before you call a plumber, you might want to check and see if you can't unclog that drain yourself: http://lifehac.kr/ozdKbq

RT @canetwork: How to Attract HOA Volunteers (spritz a little Eau de Volunteer in the air?)   http://bit.ly/qksIIF

If the condo's rockin'. . . My neighbours’ sex life is wrecking my sleep - http://bit.ly/nSirPl   (@globeandmail)

RT @YourCondoLaw: Upstairs, Downstairs - Strategies for Dealing with #Noise Disputes   http://bit.ly/oeM02Q

Keep your laundry offline! Can your Condo Assn's insurance claim be impacted by social media sites? http://bit.ly/rikg6q (@CondoandHOALaw)

RT @CommAdvocacyNet: Should education for condo bd members be mandatory?   http://sunsent.nl/pFEPbs > This concept is gaining speed in Ontario

Chklist for new condo directors. RT @CondoandHOALaw: Implementation is Power - On the Board (Condos and HOAs blog) http://sunsent.nl/pkcyDd

RT @tarleyrobinson: Blog Post: Conflicts of interest when attorneys sit on your Bd of Directors   http://htl.li/5UUeZ #HOALaw #CondoLaw

CERA says "The mind of a hoarder is strange terrain" » Helping Hoarders http://bit.ly/qB9J3y

RT @Megan_Connolly: Today's blog - Beware the Perils of Joint Ownership: http://bit.ly/p5y9sv

Older #condos face repair bill woes - Moneyville.ca http://bit.ly/ot14PD > Lesson? Condos need professional property managers!

RT @CondoandHOALaw: Is it the right time to require mandatory community ass'n board service? http://bit.ly/o9ouKk < Condo conscription?

RT @247Condo: Housing Only For Those That Can Afford It wp.me/p1FscT-3Q < When will we learn that the home ownership craze breeds disaster?

I'm in condo hell - http://bit.ly/nhmmsY < The dangers of buying into a small (fewer than 10 unit) condo complex.

RT @canetwork: Why Architects Shouldn't Build Condos out of Glass and People Shouldn't Buy Them  http://bit.ly/oz5phK

ONTARIO NEWS

Simerra Property Mgmt acquired by FirstService Corp., creates largest property manager in Canada, with 125,000 units: http://bit.ly/mSO2YD

Beavers scout for a home in Queen’s Quay condo corridor - thestar.com http://bit.ly/p3IIxH Are condo boards on alert for squatters?

Ontario town reneges on tax break for condo lands. Heritage rebates for Salmoni Condos rejected, litigation possible http://bit.ly/o1cTO0

RT @colmbrannigan: Too many condos? Not necessarily, says RBC - thestar.com - http://bit.ly/p3dbge

Toronto condo developer ordered to replace balcony glass after third pane falls to the street below  http://bit.ly/qTA8Ry

Glass falls off #Toronto #condo building for the 5th time, closes part of Bay St. - thestar.com - http://bit.ly/qR55mj

Accessibility barrier at Whitby #condo building traps disabled man on rooftop - http://bit.ly/pbw4yW

RT @ACMOnews: Weighing the condo factor in Trinity-Spadina riding - Condominiums may affect political outcomes http://bit.ly/pKKUDl #ontpoli

RT @Urbanation: Danforth #condo developer may get 10 years in the slammer:   http://bit.ly/nepe1N  (via @toronto_life)

Ignatieff Loses Condo Board Election http://bit.ly/od2wD2 (via @TheSmew)

Review of Ontario human rights system announced by @OntMAG. Public consultations to be held.  http://t.co/OMM311E

CANADA NEWS

Industry Body Calls for Licensing of Strata Managers in Western Australia http://bit.ly/pOVlM8   (H/T @StrataLawyer)

RT @canetwork: Edmonton: Condo owners stuck with $2.2M repair bill http://bit.ly/owAFrl > AB is the new BC for crappy condos, no protection.

More calls for review of BC's condo law. > The next wave in BC's ongoing condo crisis   http://bit.ly/o47lST

RT @VPFranco: Non-smokers can ban smoking in condos by changing strata bylaws:  bit.ly/qORicd

Smoking neighbour human-rights case moves forward in B.C. http://bit.ly/pYuIkD

RT @canetwork: Alberta PC leadership candidates pledge to prevent crumbling condos at Ft McMurray forum http://bit.ly/q807NI

U.S. NEWS

Fancy Brooklyn Condo Sues Synagogue for "Raucous" Party Noise: Gothamist   http://bit.ly/poFXIT

This guy ain't a condo lawyer. Lawyerly Lairs: A Wicked Awesome, $13 Million Penthouse Condo  http://bit.ly/oq5A0o  (@atlblog)

RT @atlblog: Turns out that Boston lawyer is NOT the true buyer of $13.2M penthouse condo:   http://bit.ly/ob9wkl > Bar investigation averted?

Disputed HOA elections in Md. may be submitted to the Attorney General. http://bit.ly/rtteRC > As if the A.G. doesn't have enough work!

Battle of the butts: NY smoking wars move from restaurants, parks into apartments and condos - http://nyp.st/pbAy8p

RT @LisaMagillEsq: Condo still facing problems over Mezuzah http://bit.ly/nEEE4J via   @CourthouseNews

RT @syladurantaye: Abandoned condo project at 2nd Ave and 51st in Manhattan. http://yfrog.com/kjoolsaj

Condo neighbours to Chris Brown: You bad! -- Neighbors Says He's a Nightmare | TMZ.com   http://bit.ly/oL4530

Ultimate Vacation Home Aboard World’s Largest Private Yacht http://bit.ly/rmt1JZ > A floating condo!

RT @chris_antipas: A whole different spin on hoarding.... Woman lived with thousands of rats in animal hoarding case http://bit.ly/pwxliJ

RT @ScottPetersenJD: Foreclosure Activity Down in Most US Metro Areas BUT 1.7 million potential foreclosures lay in wait abcn.ws/pSz1p5 (via @ABC)

Police break up fight at condo building over laundry room dispute http://bit.ly/oxq4dr

RT @ColoradoHOAGal: Doggie DNA nails owners of pets leaving smelly piles. Using DNA evidence manager starts fining $100 per offense http://reut.rs/ocJMdo

Deadbeat condo developers leave Brooklyn Pastor, wife out in the cold after project shut-down http://nydn.us/pPHPob

CANADA NEWS

Chronic shoddy construction continues. Calgary condo owners await solutions to long, soggy saga. http://bit.ly/k3q1RD

Canadian Condominium Institute setting up chapter to help folks meet New Brunswick condo boom.    http://bit.ly/k2KqUN

Manitoba announces changes to Condo Act. Province to strengthen rights of condo buyers, existing owners.   http://bit.ly/kE6jQP

Condo owners need their own advocacy group - http://bit.ly/kSnkhG > I'm not convinced an owners group could match CCI's proven track record.

Quebeckers mopping up a decade of shoddy condo construction. Gazette: Condos built to crumble http://bit.ly/lp66Ej

Report calls for more protection for buyers of converted condos - Winnipeg Free Press:   http://bit.ly/k73Rcz

Good move for upcoming Ontario elxn? B.C. Conservatives target condo owners | Straight.com - http://bit.ly/iKMlrT   #ontpoli

Good on Halifax for ensuring compliance with their codes! Condo developer fined for jumping the gun - http://bit.ly/mUnq7K

Alberta Gov't promises action when latest crappy #Calgary #condo costs unit owners $5M to repair - http://bit.ly/lFqjq4

Shoddy workmanship blamed as Calgary condo owners crippled by huge repair bills   http://bit.ly/kXoHoC > City now sued, province under fire.

Condo crisis - CTV Calgary http://bit.ly/kSYWaH More on shoddy condos and gov't failure to protect purchasers.

U.S. / WORLD / INTERGALACTIC NEWS

RT @canetwork: Bin Laden Diary: I've been in my new pad for a week and the "condo commandos" at Abbottabad HOA are already on my back http://bit.ly/mh0WaW

Naked driver crashes truck through condo, say police | SeacoastOnline.com http://bit.ly/luOm4q

Update on yesterday's news: Naked man who crashed truck into condo felt there was an emergency - http://bit.ly/iqtA6b

County sues on behalf of Chihuahua owner's right to live in condo -http://bit.ly/mEXg3V - New term: "Emotional service animal." Puh-lease.

RT @ColoradoHOAGal: New law requires Illinois community association managers to be licensed: http://trib.in/lk2RIX

Turtle Bay crane collapse developers file $100M malpractice suit vs. their lawyers | The Real Deal, NY - http://bit.ly/mC95EL

Condo bd liable for delaying nearby development. Court: Doctors delayed project - The Boston Globe   http://bo.st/kQ0EUS

RT @tarleyrobinson: Buyers in the world's tallest residential tower in Dubai get surprised by changes in HOA documents. http://htl.li/51zJI

Lindsay Lohan blocks view of #condo rooftop with new bamboo fence - NYPOST.com   http://nyp.st/kAxyir

Caped 'evaders' - Condo board vs. 'delinquent' duo -http://nyp.st/kT8n1b >> I love the costumes!

Florida county to sue condo for refusing Canadian dad's purchase of vacation unit (because of his 3 young kids) -http://sunsent.nl/jTKsNq

Pamela Anderson Sued for Ex-Boyfriend's Condo Failure - FoxNews.com http://fxn.ws/lKlyw6   (Yes, that's "condo" failure.)

Pamela Anderson responds to condo lawsuit | Examiner.com - http://exm.nr/lUxBmj

"Don't screw with the view." NJ condo owners win $4M for developer's broken promise of "breathtaking" views - http://nyp.st/j7klDS

A thoroughly crappy idea. RT @Minn_HOA_Law: DNA test for dog poop. This is not going to end well...    http://bit.ly/jFYEWC

North Miami's Condo Catastrophe – BusinessWeek http://buswk.co/livYqf

Shortsale Prices Dip Below $100 PSF In South Florida, According To @CondoVultures.com - http://t.co/KM2PwUE

"Predator" NY condo developer guilty of fraud, fined $7.4M, banned from real estate biz - http://bit.ly/kuoHXV   (@cnybrealestate)

FL Court: Condo prez to pay $400K over false invoices rendered on unit reno job he did as unlicensed contractor - http://sunsent.nl/ntc1Qv

Dim-Witted Homeowners Association Finally Sees the Light. http://lexne.ws/3fq

RT @tarleyrobinson: ADA, FHA, and HOAs and Service Animals Updated: Florida Association Sued for housing discrimination: http://bit.ly/kq0lCU

Condo Commandos on Mars? Why Is This Man Smiling? http://bit.ly/ktM4qf

GMA IN THE NEWS

Quoted in a news story by @syladurantaye on buildings in trouble: The hidden cost of low condo-maintenance fees http://bit.ly/jSiRGU

RT @ACMOnews: Congratulations to all our 2011 ACMO Award Recipients: acmo.org/acmo.php?id=300

RT @GMALaw: GMA's Warren Ragoonanan quoted in Law Times article on online business contracts, page 9 of the June 6, 2011 edition.

"Green Legislation and Condos" -- Useful article by GMA's Andrea Krywonis published in this month's Condo Business. http://fb.me/YfrqClA7

COMMENTARY / ARTICLES

RT @califcondoguru New at CondoLawGuru: Should Diapered Toddlers Be Allowed in the HOA or Condo Swimming Pool? http://bit.ly/lWo0Zt

The case for condo security - Canadian Security Magazine (@SecurityEd): http://bit.ly/lFyK7L

Hyman: One vote limit per #condo unit puts marriage at risk - http://bit.ly/m6j1aG

Legal fees for condo assessm't collection needn't be proportionate to underlying claim:   http://bit.ly/kEO1fe | We need such a ruling here.

RT @ColoradoHOAGal Great article re the reality of a homeowners association- not a faceless corporation but "neighbors acting in concert" http://bit.ly/jLmH15

RT @chris_antipas: Overcome your Condophobia. natpo.st/mQB68S via @financialpost

RT @harry_fine: Ontario Realtors, when u find a rental tenant for client's condo, do u make sure they get copy of Rules, Declaration & By-Laws? It’s the law.

Good guidance for condo boards and non-profits about what goes into (and stays out of) minutes of meetings:   http://bit.ly/kPaOJz

When electing #condo bd directors, avoid those who promise 0% increases. They've got no sense of reality.

RT @condobusiness: Dogs and condos - friends or foes? http://fb.me/zwXJOwiK

RT @J_Juffs: Art & the condo, exemplifies why RFS planning needs to be flexible and considerate   natpo.st/lSoJ7p via @nationalpost

RT @habitatmag: Co-op / Condo Boards: Learn the 3 simple things you need to know to deal w/ difficult residents, & not kill them http://tinyurl.com/6fv9ppf

Hanes: Shortfalls in the Condo Act and Tarion Warranty could easily be fixed if Gov't would simply pay attention http://bit.ly/j7E5PF

RT @habitatmag: Before burning out, presidents should consider grooming the next generation of board leaders. http://ow.ly/5hnfC

RT @BuzzBuzzHome: To Assign or Not to Assign – what is permitted? If buying pre-construction, a must read ---> http://bit.ly/jDj8w7

RT @CondoandHOALaw: Traits of a Highly Functioning Community Ass'n Board of Directors?  http://bit.ly/leFU0h

From MEEB: Electric Cars Are Coming: When Parking Issues Become ‘Charged’ How Will Community Associations Respond? http://bit.ly/kVm5B4

Having a professional property manager is invaluable. Hyman: Board-managed condo corporation probably unwise - http://bit.ly/iqzqyf

Best advice for condos and community associations: Negotiate, Don’t Litigate   http://bit.ly/ioChIE (@Associa)

RT @DeniseLash: Phase-Out of Incandescent Light Bulbs Postponed - http://lnkd.in/HFfEsM

Condo manager @Condoliving101 asks [knowingly]: Are condominium owners too demanding or simply Insane? http://bit.ly/jtdqsI

Could your condo lobby use a decor update? http://bit.ly/rmTIPq > If so, be ready for chaos. Renos often bring conflict.

Condo dwellers ask: To Barbecue or Not to Barbecue? http://bit.ly/pba3MN

Are You Contributing Too Much to Your Co-op / Condo Reserve Fund? - Habitat Mag - http://bit.ly/p6m4NL > Perhaps the dumbest question ever.

RT @condobusiness: Learn about a new technology that allows you to tour a condo unit before it's even built... http://fb.me/RAaXmPtx

RESOURCES

Handy tips for highrise dwellers. RT @canetwork: WA: Condo and apartment etiquette   http://bit.ly/kTGJY9 

RT @SeaCondoAtty New Blog Post: Innovative Soundproofing Techniques to Address Noisy Condo Units. http://bit.ly/mPdUL1

RT @: Bill 168 – Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – has been in force for 1 year.  bit.ly/mHVvIk

RT @CondoandHOALaw: Multimedia, Interactive Legislative Guidebook for Florida Community Ass'ns:   http://bit.ly/iKV9Lw > Wow. Very impressive!

Ont. Ministry of Gov't Services updates the E-Reg Procedures Guide (v.5, July/11) for the Land Registry system - http://bit.ly/oss6Rs

COMMENTARY / ARTICLES

Condo Hotel Lawyer: What is happening with the condo hotel sector? - Hotel Law Blog http://bit.ly/lnQidR

RT @tarleyrobinson: New blog post: HOAs, ADA, and FHA: regulating "Service or Assistance Animals" http://blog.tarleyrobinson.com/?p=913

RT @condobusiness: Noise issues can be such a challenge in condos and rental apartment buildings.  http://fb.me/EkjXNYg4

RT @condobusiness: Does your condo limit amenity use by children? It may not hold up in court. http://fb.me/LEYKSyeY

When turning down the radio just won't do. > Condo Living: Soundproofing - House & Home http://bit.ly/dGktNU

RT @colmbrannigan: I have posted a short article on Condo #Mediation/Arbitration from a panel "Mediate, Arbitrate or Court?" at http://www.mediate.ca/pg69.cfm

RT @chris_antipas: The importance of ongoing education of all owners. Digital version of Condo Business (pg29): http://cb.dgtlpub.com/2011/2011-03-31/home.php

Independent contractors are considered "workers" for health and safety purposes   http://bit.ly/i3shrr

ONTARIO NEWS

RT @CBCWindsor: Cat rescue group proposes cat condo site: Feral felines in southwestern Ontario may get their own cat condos ... http://bit.ly/m3sO9R

RT @canetwork: Canada: Banks don't look at names, signatures on cheques (condo treasurer takes $50k) http://bit.ly/kmweUG

There were ~ 4,200 condo completions in Q1-2011 and ~11,700 scheduled for the remainder of 2011, for a total of 15,900 per @Urbanation

Lawyer wannabe appeals Law Society finding that his condo board hijinx shows bad character.   http://bit.ly/eP4UgD (@LegalFeedsblog)

Condo board antics can have a lasting impact! Would-be lawyer rejected by Ontario’s Law Society for poor character - http://bit.ly/g9ad1z

Condo board shenanigans can derail a young person's career. Ask this guy. "Lawyers behaving badly" -   http://bit.ly/gUkd39

Computer misuse charge dropped against police sgt. for unauthorized computer check on a resident in his condo - http://bit.ly/dJ6QXI

@CCIGHC's "Fair tax for condos" campaign gains foothold in Waterloo region. Wilmot to look into fair tax issue   http://bit.ly/h91gHP

NIMBYism is alive and well. Condo dwellers balk at homeless centre: http://bit.ly/eHGZLM (Ottawasun.com)

 CANADA NEWS

BC's foray into condo manager regulation plagued by politics. VanSun: Putting strata owners first could help families http://bit.ly/hYS7yd

Calgary condo unit owners start moving back in, one year after massive fire http://bit.ly/dYk7m3

Is condo board acting reasonably here? Tough call. Disabled residents locked out of their condo shower room http://bit.ly/g5oMxh

Condo complex sparring with Canada Post over denied service - http://bit.ly/ieVjWf (@EdmontonSun)

 WORLD NEWS

RT @MortonsMusings: Iran tries to make it illegal to own a dog: http://bit.ly/ftJt2v | Tehran condo boards probably support the idea.

Lemme guess - he's self-represented?? Lawyer's suit vs. developer claims condo was missing 109 sq. ft. http://bit.ly/e7ln7p (@ABAJournal)

Lawyer who sued over 109 missing sq. feet in his condo wins $150K settlement - ABA Journal: http://bit.ly/eq90BQ

Synagogue ousted from condo unit in Palm Beach - http://bit.ly/fR3Z2X

Proposed deregulation of property managers in Florida shelved thx to efforts of Donna's @CondoandHOALaw group. Kudos!  http://bit.ly/iaaf7i

Non-smoking movement gains ground in Big Apple co-ops. Smoking Bans Hitting Home - WSJ.com http://on.wsj.com/i5PfvO

Board acting like boobs? NYTimes: Breast-Feeding Boutique in Feud with Condo Board http://nyti.ms/g3s0i9

Legal Commentary

RT @MortonsMusings: A property is sold and then a property tax refund is made -- who gets the refund? The vendor. http://bit.ly/hPkHop

RT @mondocondo: Purchasing a Condominium - The Importance of a Status Certificate http://lnkd.in/WY9QDi

RT @FLCondoHOALaw: Covenant Enforcement: Do Rules and Regulations Mean Anything Anymore? http://bit.ly/gIzStS

From MEEB: Social Networking Can Improve Communications But Watch out for the Liability Risks  http://bit.ly/dFXW9s

Cool Stuff

RT @CondoandHOALaw: My "Condo and HOA Law" blog has a new home on the web at its own dedicated URL: http://www.CondoandHOALawBlog.com

RT @BuzzBuzzHome: How much should you tip your condo concierge?? This conversation is getting a lot of lurky-loos! http://ow.ly/3swZy

Welcome to Twitter, @ACMOnews! Association of Condominium Managers of Ontario (ACMO) launches president's blog: http://bit.ly/f6FmY4

RT @habitatmag: Co-op / Condo Boards: What's the good word? Find out with our inaugural "Top 10 Co-op / Condo Quotes of 2010"! http://tinyurl.com/2byunh3

#Clawbies2010 feature new and expanded categories. Great picks. Cheers to all winners, runners-up & nominees!  http://bit.ly/e0ntij

RT @canetwork: 2010′s Top Condo & HOA News Stories http://bit.ly/dJlJSo

2011 New Year's Resolutions for Community Associations via Northwest Condo & HOA Law Blog http://bit.ly/gxzVp7

RT @CCIGHC: Condominium 2011 Conference and Tradeshow "All Under One Roof" April 9, 2011 visit www.ghccci.org for more details.

Misc Articles

This "dinosaur" is on the right track! >> Technology Isn’t Everything: A Curmudgeon’s Perspective:    http://bit.ly/fORjWI (@attnyatwork)

Basics of a good condo board meeting: tips for members and  concerned observers.     http://bit.ly/eyQrOi (@condoca)

RT @DavidPylyp: Reputation Management for Condos #Toronto http://bit.ly/hnFyv9 How is your condo board defending and supporting your equity?

RT @condobusiness: 2010 had some interesting issues raised in court. Can you think of any more that should have made this list? http://fb.me/RLIzBbv3

Condo directors' ignorance is inexcusable, easily fixed.http://bit.ly/hbyiwg (@LFPress)

Getting best results from a forensic accountant. How to get best value from fraud investigation.    http://bit.ly/fgxYZa (CBA Practicelink)

Joining your condo board: The pros - http://bit.ly/fgF2Cm and the cons - http://bit.ly/eKKwh9 (via @UrbanTurf_DC)

Some people should just live in secluded caves! >> The next-door neighbour from hell:    http://bit.ly/eN9ydv  (Macleans.ca)

Simple: No pay, no plug. @TorontoStar: Condo residents warned against purchasing electric cars - http://bit.ly/eqM8O9

Ontario News

2010 was the year of the #condo in the Greater Toronto Area.http://bit.ly/dG9T5r (@metrotoronto)

Hopefully not the "ka-boom" kind -- A condo explosion is on the horizon for Yorkville.    http://bit.ly/hO976j  (@BlogTO)

RT @BuzzBuzzHome: The average price per square foot for condos in the greater Toronto area is $532, and $814 in Toronto’s core....

RT @OREAGR: New video of @MacleodLisa introducing Bill 139, the Clandestine Drug Op Prevention Act http://ow.ly/3Ab7y Bill 139 will protect homebuyers!

Handy stress relief or serious rule infraction? RT @canetwork: Toronto: Massage parlours in private condos a problem. http://bit.ly/egJdK4

Mortgagee circling the bowl b/c of bad mgmt or worse? RT @globeinvestor: Xceed posts loss, won’t accept new mortgages: http://tgam.ca/BZTF

Will proposed Ontario Clean Energy Benefit benefit unit condo unit owners or leave them in the cold? Gov't is unclear. http://bit.ly/hSa0c4

RT @acoyne: Oh for the love of God: THEY'RE CATS. Until I got to Toronto I'd never heard of an "indoor cat". Now they're mandatory. http://bit.ly/i4AlSk

"No bubble here, folks!" City of mass construction: Toronto’s unstoppable condos show no signs of slowing down. http://bit.ly/gAKwwy

RT @colmbrannigan: Mental illness, dementia and hoarding will be an even greater problem for condo owners, boards and managers in the future. http://lnkd.in/v_YWYD

RT @RivaFinkelstein: One of Canada's 1st geothermal condos starts digging this spring - a huge leap towards zero energy footprint in Ontario. http://bit.ly/gfcRH6

Ont. Law Society refuses man's bar admission over dirty tricks while president of his condo board    http://bit.ly/dSYJ1X (@CanLawMag)

Canada News

RT @StrataLawyer: The grinch who stole the condo's Christmas tree http://goo.gl/fNkfc

Bid-rigging charges laid over inflated HVAC contract prices at MTL residential highrises.    http://bit.ly/ebXx7l (@RCD_Canada)

Involving the city in condo maint/repair issues can backfire, give rise to serious unintended consequences.  http://ow.ly/3CEHv  H/T: @VPFranco

Good for buyers, bad for my condo lien enforcement practice! >> New financing rules would hit condo buyers. http://bit.ly/hKOFHL

Feds miss opportunity to factor in full cost of condo ownership. http://bit.ly/hbKLbx    (@CalgaryHerald)

RT @StrataLawyer: Not everyone is happy about the pending amendments to the BC Strata Property Act  http://goo.gl/392da

International News

"F**k the condo people" song enough to get bar's liquor license revoked? http://bit.ly/hM90Cv (H/T @canetwork) Precedent factum provided!

Connecticut Fire Marshal Accused by Condo Group of Extortion. http://bit.ly/ex2XmY

"This is what we fought in the war for?" Old Men Win Right to Hang in Condo Lobby (3 Hours A Week). http://bit.ly/i2qsVk (@Gothamist)

The Condo Republic - Condo owners rise up against undemocratic homeowners board regimes.    http://bit.ly/hNvoX8 (Salt Lake @CityWeekly)

RT @legalpost: Bank tosses cremated remains during foreclosure

No tagging before towing? Residents of tow-crazy Baltimore condo angry over towed cars.    http://bit.ly/fsQa4h

Man shot and killed in towing dispute at Georgia HOA. http://bit.ly/grMgmV (h/t: @CAnetwork)

NY Plaza Hotel condo pays its developer $3.1M for Superintendent's unit. http://bit.ly/h18z0L    #mindboggling

RT @canetwork: NV: Wealthy few call Vegas Strip home after condo bust. http://bit.ly/gr3MOz

RT @MEKowalski: Chicago high-rise invokes no-smoking edict - chicagotribune.com. shar.es/XOfkl

Legal profession takes a pounding for bad apples. RT @Megan_Connolly: Judges Berate Bank Lawyers in Foreclosures - http://nyti.ms/enZL35

RT @PropertyWireCa: Arizona Aggressively Targetting Canadian Homebuyers This Winter. http://ow.ly/3ygNQ

RT @CondoandHOALaw: HOA pays $1,900 at auction for home w/$18K in delinquent assessm'ts, worth $460K at height of bubble. http://ow.ly/3DcPx

I've got a sinking feeling about this condo houseboat.... Cruising condominiums? Whatever floats your boat.  http://bit.ly/gpP9Sz

Get a password! Florida lawyer's condo raided by feds after his wireless router is hijacked for child porn:  http://bit.ly/h5hNsj

GMA in the News

Quoted in FP @LegalPost by @MEKowalski on smoke-free condos in #Ontario. http://bit.ly/e3MVnz  #condoHOAlaw

Misc. Articles

Truer words never spoken - When Co-op Shareholders & Condo Unit-Owners sue, they sue themselves http://bit.ly/a9pxoo (via @habitatmag)

RT @condobusiness Sometimes condominium managers have to make tough decisions. http://fb.me/NLmXBKJB

RT @habitatmag Co-op / Condo Boards: Learn how to deal with the press -- a guide keeping your building off the 6 o'clock news! http://tinyurl.com/25rnqck

RT @hoamgtcom You Can Squeal, but Fighting the Homeowners Association Is a Slippery Slope. http://bit.ly/g825DE

Cool Stuff

RT @JoanneRoyce Great free e-learning training on Ontario Human Rights http://www.ohrc.on.ca/hr101/

RT @blogto: What a $128,000 Toronto condo looks like --> http://bit.ly/fkGyhW

RT @clickflickca: What a $12.8 million dollar condo looks like in Toronto http://bit.ly/hOZefm (@BlogTO)

Ontario News

Grow-op busted in maintenance area of Toronto condo bldg. 2,500 marijuana plants worth $2.5M seized - @680News: http://bit.ly/9wkEXK

RT @BuzzBuzzHome BUSTED! Scarborough condo employees running $2.6 million grow-op.  http://bit.ly/ay3mfz

Driver crushed to death trying to access underground garage at #Toronto apt bldg. http://bit.ly/9f9kjc

CCI/ACMO #condo conf concluded yesterday. Crowd loved Maj-Gen. Lewis MacKenzie's keynote speech on leadership. Inspirational and moving.

RT @canetwork Ont. man says flag wrapped in bylaw dispute 'not coming down' http://bit.ly/aqMR1H

Will Harry Stinson prevail? City red tape threatens $30-million hotel http://bit.ly/c5cvt4    (@TheSpec)

Where govt fails, citizens succeed. Tenants and condo dwellers fighting haze of second-hand smoke - http://bit.ly/9DANhk (@TorontoStar)

Double-digit increases in condo fees are fairly common these days - Condo owner deflated by rising fees http://bit.ly/i3VDHL (@TheSpec)

This realtor claims to have coined the term "phantom buyers." http://bit.ly/dZq0S7 Um, no.

RT @ BuzzBuzzHome One Bloor by Great Gulf to start construction in March 2011.    http://bit.ly/g1GneA

RT @VPFranco The problem of untimely enforcement of pet bylaws: How do you choose which dog, Cisco or Sammy, will need a new home? http://ow.ly/3p63T

Condo project pays off for novice developers in Elmira. http://bit.ly/dMPhwa (@WR_Record) | They're not out of the woods yet.

Canada News

Astonishing admissions by condo squatter. Will he get away with this? Condo buyer determined to make unit his own. http://bit.ly/9YBmDL

Research risks of cellphone towers before it's too late. http://bit.ly/aih0MO (@VancouverSun)

RT @StrataLawyer Condos rethink cameras over privacy concerns http://bit.ly/gaQ8SE

International News

Overlawyered: $100K battle over pet in NY condo - http://bit.ly/hZacFu

Condos Nightmares And Other Enigmas -- Diagnosis: Condo-itis -http://bit.ly/a58c2J

Chicago condo unit owners turn to a fundraiser heavy on goofiness as a way out of their financial hole - http://bit.ly/czQJtW

RT @canetwork Banks face flood of lawsuits over foreclosure missteps http://bit.ly/b6PDQo

RT @canetwork NYC Tenants Fight Against Rooftop Cell Phone Tower http://bit.ly/fZ4EDH

Man shot helping police serve eviction notice at South Beach waterfront condo - MiamiHerald.com http://bit.ly/eU1Pck

The condotel has landed in Vietnam - http://bit.ly/eTWIs8

Lawyer torches own condo unit - The Philippine Star - http://bit.ly/fchV5q

BP Settles Damage Claim by Alabama Condo Developer for $37 Million http://bit.ly/dSv0Ac

RT @StrataLawyer Condo owners watch units collapse around them - OrlandoSentinel.com    http://t.co/y6yVIa2 

Tips & Cool Stuff

Unit owners fighting condo boards for "principle," read this before self-destructing needlessly: http://bit.ly/bhCqPG (@TheSpec)

RT @hoamgtcom: Thinking of running for your HOA or Condo Board of Directors? Your Community Association needs you! http://bit.ly/bBWPAE

And remember to smile!! RT @canetwork: How to Meet People in Your Condo Building  http://bit.ly/aPHIdj

News / Commentary -- Ontario

Time to revise condo rules to prevent flophouses? >> Cops say Toronto could become hooker haven: http://bit.ly/d7ip0k (@ottawasuncom)

Hoarding as fire hazard. City ordered cleanup of hoarder's unit months before massive highrise fire - thestar.com: http://bit.ly/c2oKlP

YorkRegion Article: Stouffville condo buyers confront builders: http://bit.ly/8ZikLf

RT @OntMinLabour Toronto Police Services have laid criminal charges against 3 individuals and Metron Construction Corp. http://tinyurl.com/2u95q2v

A high-rise tax ripoff, but no one will help - @Rachel_Sa sees little prospect of lower taxes for Toronto condos - http://bit.ly/cpsUkR

RT @condobusiness Video Report: Are condo-hotels the latest craze or a development trend that's here to stay? http://fb.me/JfR28tMY

RT @condobusiness Y. Hendler on what's involved in the property management at "Toronto's first true condo-hotel" http://bit.ly/9eomJP

Ottawa condo drama ends with removal of board: Condo residents restore super to job - http://bit.ly/9ZyXbf (@OttawaCitizen)

RT @MrSmallClaims Small claims court often involves human rights. But do human rights include legal fees? Supreme Court to decide http://tinyurl.com/2w4rmld

Heritage properties are a minefield and a burden: http://bit.ly/dtMLsX

RT @Yasir_Naqvi Do you live in a condo? Please participate in #Ontario govt's  #Condominium Survey at www.ontario.ca/condos or 1-800-889-9768 before Oct 31.

Cambridge city council candidate calls for police escort to campaign in condominium:  http://bit.ly/dvoK6V TheRecord.com

Which Toronto mayoral hopefuls understand condos? Hear the Q&As from the debate at Cdn Condominium Institute: http://bit.ly/bpKOo2 #voteTO

RT @torontoist Will condo-dwellers finally have a say this election? http://bit.ly/d6DpZz #VoteTO

I'm against liening condo units for work on common elements. @OntMAG launches Construction Lien Act consultation: http://bit.ly/aTffTg

RT @CBCToronto Condo sales surge in Ontario cities http://bit.ly/cODvHH

Claims under Condo Act s.135 affected too. RT @MortonsMusings: Oppression Remedy subject to 2 yr limitation period: http://bit.ly/93A6Aj

Time to raise condo soundproofing / airtightness issues! Ontario Govt seeks input on building code amendments –http://bit.ly/dDoW1j

News / Commentary -- Canada

The movement grows. RT @VPFranco: Surprise, BC is not leading the charge on smoking bans in condos. http://ow.ly/2Tg35

Consultation underway to update the Manitoba Condo Act: Own a condo? Read this - Winnipeg Free Press http://bit.ly/cQLDWE

RT @canetwork: Vancouver: Nasty fight over condo parking space leads court to ban 'vexatious litigant - http://bit.ly/9COEV6

News / Commentary -- International

Chicago condo bans indoor smoking. Any Toronto condos ready to take the plunge? RT @VPFranco: #Smoking ban hits home:http://bit.ly/brHrVh

Non-smoking trend gains momentum in US - No butts: Apartment developers ban smoking at home - msnbc.com http://bit.ly/a0RFsc

Non-smoking bldgs increasingly desirable. Condo board votes to kick butts: SearchChicago Homes - http://bit.ly/bMWbm3

Legal system "evolving" to handle decimated market - Canceling Dubai Property Deals Nearly Impossible - NYTimes.com: http://nyti.ms/bI9aLK

Culture plays a surprisingly big part. RT @canetwork: BBC look at clothesline bans  http://bbc.in/9jzXPc

RT @habitatmag Co-op / Condo Boards: Oh boy - yet another city crackdown. Find out about the DEP's latest, on backflow devices http://tinyurl.com/278azaz

Bugs now get a clause in contracts! Bedbug Protection for Condo and Co-op Buyers - (NYTimes): http://nyti.ms/a5TVyx

Math teacher loses fight with condo over scooter http://bit.ly/cKdhGa. More like "Green argument lands man in the red!"

Indiana condo corp to pay $120,000 in racial bias case - http://bit.ly/cOQsIQ

In US, it's harder to unload condos than single family homes. RT @canetwork: WSJ: The Trouble With Condos http://bit.ly/axjUHu

GMA in the News

A good question, great answer and splendid plug. Thanks, Cesia! RT @cesiagreen: What exactly is a condominium? http://wp.me/pTCSP-2j

Quoted in Law Times on case of condo corporation found liable when superintendent assaults visitor. http://lnkd.in/SKThKX

I'm a case study cited by @kevinokeefe in "How much time does it take to publish a good law blog?" http://bit.ly/c7p4b1 Humbled!

GMA's Andrea Krywonis and Chris Jaglowitz attended LexBlog's "Beer for Bloggers" evening on October 21: http://bit.ly/9nQdRk

Tips for unit owners and prospective purchasers

RT @Make_It_Right: Thinking of making changes to your condo? Follow this checklist to ensure a smooth renovation. http://bit.ly/condocheck

Don't buy without reading this: A condo buyer’s checklist - http://bit.ly/9Ztnav (Toronto Sun)

There’s safety in numbers dealing with a ‘condo bully’ http://bit.ly/9OhIWM    (lfpress.com)

Read my two cents on smoking in condo units, published in the "Ask the Pro" section of Holmes Magazine (August 2010). http://lnkd.in/rMDYU-

Consider small claims court for real estate disputes worth $25K or less:  http://bit.ly/ctfWez   (Yourhome.ca)

Get a lawyer to review new condo deal within cooling-off period. Bob Aaron: Undisclosed costs can really add up - http://bit.ly/arvzGe

Will $638/sq. ft. be the high water mark for Toronto condos? Garth Turner predicts doom as condo sales cool down: http://bit.ly/cYuoT0

The heat is definitely off now -- Toronto condo market hits "down" button:  http://tgam.ca/tnZ (via @globeandmail)

This is how rich people get their kids out of the nest: Buy Your Kid A Condo:    http://bit.ly/9m9XhY (@MTLGazette)

That's all for now, folks. Thanks for reading and please keep your comments coming! 

Canada

Rule-making as a feature of Canadian culture: http://bit.ly/9pPmKk(via @nationalpost) Q: Are condos as bad as government?

Improved home construction standards needed but may cause hike in home prices in AB - http://bit.ly/dquWZ5 (via @edmontonjournal)

Leasehold condo property – delight deals or potential nightmares? http://bit.ly/agKdOl (via @globeandmail)

MyKawartha.com article: Edengrove Beach up for condo award: http://bit.ly/cjVu9E

POP goes the bubble. RT @StarBusiness: ‘Moderate correction’ coming in real estate: TD Bank http://bit.ly/9mqpSj

Wasn't the memo translated? Condo-mania sweeping Montreal; Selling quickly, thousands of new homes planned: http://bit.ly/czZG4J (Gazette)

RT @VPFranco Strata Pres defends defamation suit re: wording used in "Update"; staring alone does not amount to actionable nuisance...http://ow.ly/2yVpA

Alberta condo law review excluding unit owners, say critics -http://bit.ly/agxUsw (via CBC Calgary)

New condo regulations pondered in Manitoba - http://bit.ly/beNVG7(@WinnipegNews)

Unsure if this applies to condo unit owners - Solar panel installation gets bank backing - http://bit.ly/aXmuFu (via @globeandmail)

 International

Cuban condo development to boom? - Foreign investors get 99-year lease on state land « CubaStandard.com: http://bit.ly/9RlIOZ

Property manager pleads guilty to stealing $2.3M from 19 condos/co-ops to feed lottery habit - http://bit.ly/dom94a NYPOST.com

RT @NBCNewYork: Luxury Condos Asking the Feds for Help - http://bit.ly/aO6Dqh

RT @SeaCondoAtty: NPR: policymakers rethinking homeownership as an American ideal.  http://n.pr/b4jn4Q

NY court decision requiring refund of condo deposit could chill development nationwide, lawyers say - ABA Journal: http://bit.ly/bueLnI

Nothing wrong with aggressive debt collection! RT @legalpost: Bailiffs want to seize puppies over debt http://natpo.st/9avVPq

ONSC: Toronto condo liable to pay $50K for assault/battery when super physically ejects a trespasser” http://bit.ly/9fA8Q8

SKPC: Owner responsible for insurance deductible where condo unit floods from ill-informed self-repair of faucet: http://bit.ly/cQ5LEX

ONSC slaps MPAC for "questionable" two-stage property tax assessment process for new condo units:  http://bit.ly/9Wj1Nd

ONHRT dismisses complaint over "no pets" clause after the same issue was dealt with by arbitrator under Condo Act: http://bit.ly/bwcMn9

ONSC amends declaration to allow condo corp to unitize and sell unused super suite despite opposition.  http://bit.ly/adKqiM. Bad idea?

ONSC slashes legal costs payable by unit owner under condo lien. Costs of $78K "not reasonable," reduced by 66%. http://bit.ly/9JejVj Ouch!

BCSC: Condo should have had proper insurance to cover social host liability claims vs unit owner: http://ow.ly/2waEX (HT @VPFranco)

HRTO allows dog to walk through condo lobby while human rights complaint over that issue is pending - http://bit.ly/bFCTx4

Deserving special mention is the case of the MTCC 747 v. Korolekh, which will likely emerge as one of the top 5 Ontario condo law cases of the year. Here’s our Twitter coverage of this unusual case.

ONSC finds condo unit owner from hell to be "incorrigible, unmanageable" and orders the sale of her unit:  http://bit.ly/dse60P

Neighbour from hell defies court order to sell her condo unit -http://bit.ly/bsOPEs This lady is in for a bumpy ride.

Quoted by Toronto Star about case of condo unit owner who defies court order to sell her unit.  http://bit.ly/bp6nB3

Unit owner finally smartens up - Condo owner to judge: You win - http://bit.ly/bFMw3y (thestar.com)

Just did a short interview on CBC Radio about Toronto woman ordered to sell her condo unit. Important that condo dwellers be good neighbours! http://bit.ly/cm4dlZ

A worker was electrocuted to death at my office tower this morning. MOL to investigate: http://bit.ly/9LhqF7 #ohs

 @pinkskymorning Have fun, but read condo docs carefully before purchasing. If buying new, get a lawyer early in 10 day cool-off period.

Preliminary agenda for 2010 CCI/ACMO Condo Conference (Nov 5-6 in Toronto): http://bit.ly/cblxlN. My session on digital communities is 3C.

RT @Ontario_Lawyer: Be careful giving references: http://bit.ly/cM1jCH <But firms are more worried to give good references to bad employees!

 Condo bd needs PR Rep. RT @stephaniesmyth: Poor condo residents in Mississauga without AC for a MONTH! We're sending a CP24 crew to see you!

Good article on condo fees in @OttawaCitizen - The price of luxury: http://bit.ly/dxgXLH

RT @BuzzBuzzHome: Downtown Developers want you to name their new condo, and will give you $5,000 for it! http://bit.ly/bs3ahn

ONSC: Condo unit owner’s lawsuit re maintenance/repairs stayed for failure to mediate/arbitrate per Condo Act s.132: http://bit.ly/bW8s0R

ONSC awards condo all costs of defaulting unit owner’s failed small claim for “wrongful collection" of condo fees: http://bit.ly/b0Wrqv

ONSC grants leave to appeal in unit owner's claim vs developer where condo corp already suing re construction defects: http://bit.ly/bmvXvv

Toronto property mgmt co. fined $20K for disregarding Human Rights Code; fired an employee who revealed she had cancer: http://bit.ly/amsX3V

New urban trend? Miami’s Downtown Comes Alive as Condos Fill with Young Renters - (BusinessWeek): http://bit.ly/cvtXqx

Can we balance green energy condo development and consumer protection? See my quote in @CanLawMag: http://bit.ly/bl6yK8

RT @community_mngt: Techniques for Monitoring Online Communities: WebVisions Video - http://ow.ly/2aFei (via @blaisegv)

From CAI Ungated blog: CNBC on HOA Foreclosures: http://bit.ly/cPOlej

RT: @lisa_clark: How does your garden grow? Thornhill condo provides garden plots to building residents. Great idea! http://ow.ly/2fUiX 

Follow us on Twitter to get live updates as they happen!

If you're having trouble deciphering some of the abbreviations we commonly use when reporting on court/tribunal decisions or government action, perhaps this legend might be helpful:

ON: Ontario
ONSC: Ontario Superior Court of Justice
ONCA: Ontario Court of Appeal
ONHRT: Ontario Human Rights Tribunal
MOL: Ontario Ministry of Labour
RT: “Retweet” (as in retweeting a post made by someone else)

For more help with Twitter generally, see the “Twitter Basics” page.

In R. v. McHale, ONCA gives an excellent review of the law on laying a private information: http://bit.ly/bXjOme (via @mortonsmusings)

ONHRT dismisses condo unit owner complaint after ONCA rules that single family use restriction does not violate Code: http://bit.ly/9wuyTn

Cigarette butts from balcony above - familiar? Condo resident tired of butts and excuses: http://bit.ly/aJDK4M (via @OttawaCitizen)

Good Canadian legal context here: RT @VPFranco: Human Rights and smoking bans in stratas and other multi-unit dwellings: http://ow.ly/1ZBWD

Nice job by @deanmccabe in setting up Facebook Group for Building Digital Communities in your Condominium - http://bit.ly/cBwtKh

Run your condo via Facebook?? The Use of Social Media in Association Governance: http://bit.ly/9TBPFa (via Colorado HOA Law Blog)

RT @canetwork: PA: Man Admits Beating HOA Landscaper With Shovel (and he didn't call the mgr/board to complain) http://bit.ly/bdwc0w

RT @OntMinLabour: Video on our new Violence in the Workplace legislation in effect June 15/10: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMe_foAmTEY

RT @LawTimes: News: Even law firms unprepared for new workplace violence law http://bit.ly/aV9nng

RT @OntMinLabour: Workplace violence and harassment law comes in to effect today - http://tinyurl.com/29drz4b

Human rights claim by condo super fired in 2007 still lumbering thru the system: http://bit.ly/bsB0kY. Get legal advice when firing supers.

3rd kick at the can by Ont. MPP @rosariomarchese: Condominium Owners Protection Act, 2010 (Bill 79): http://bit.ly/dxlbWs

RT @rosariomarchese: I've just posted an audio file of my June 1 #Condo Forum, for those who missed out. Link here: http://bit.ly/dqVyEl

Sudbury condo corp alarmed at Vale Inco's plan to dig new aggregate quarry nearby - (via North Bay Nugget): http://bit.ly/9TnC1w

RT @FOXBaltimore: Doggie DNA Testing Shot Down: Baltimore condo board decides not to go forth with doggie DNA testing. http://bit.ly/9DiUiO

Hear, hear! Condominium property managers – the unsung heroes: http://bit.ly/c2zpMe (via Yourhome.ca)

Hotel-inspired condo development will have 'negative effect' on neighbourhood: http://bit.ly/coCbRt via @OttawaCitizen, Hat tip to @jjuffs

Fingers crossed: SCC to consider whether respondents can recover legal costs of human rights claims - http://bit.ly/d6ljNw (via Gowlings)

Homeowners Associations: The Enemy of Solar? - Green Blog @ NYTimes.com: http://bit.ly/aSTa35

Water damage from negligently-designed drainage system not covered under property damage clause (via Cdn Ins Law Blog): http://bit.ly/bnPHqw

Canuck invasion? Canadians buying up US real estate like crazy (via @housingwatch blog) - http://bit.ly/cX6XuQ

Bob Aaron: Expect to see more condos challenging developer-imposed suite/amenity purchase agreements - http://bit.ly/9mn20K

Ottawa Sun: Condo Act doesn't prohibit convicted pedophiles from buying condo units or serving on the board - http://bit.ly/c2R6RH [So?]

ONCA: Single family occupancy restriction in condo declaration does not violate Ont Human Rights Code - http://bit.ly/bO7tug

Rare case where city seeks destruction of dog - RT @canetwork: Ottawa: 'Vicious' pitbull evicted by condo board - http://bit.ly/d5nKBB

What Does a Condominium Lawyer Do? Wisegeek.com has an answer - http://bit.ly/dhcLwn

Condo fee delinquency reaches epic proportion in US; priority lien legislation considered (via @NashuaTelegraph) - http://bit.ly/cAdUUq

Blogosaurus Lex on Cdn community mediation resources » A Question about Conflict between Neighbours - http://bit.ly/d4fuVc

On municipal taxes and local services for condos - Condo owners paying the price (via TheSpec.com) - http://bit.ly/bbzzKi

1 in 3 Ontario homes is over-assessed for municipal tax, says tax expert (via @globeandmail) - http://bit.ly/9E3YVD

Mike Holmes Magazine asks me to write a short answer to an "ask the pros" question about 2nd hand smoke in condos. Cool!

BC condo buyers upset over secret discounts on units: http://bit.ly/bKeoxn (via CBC News - British Columbia) -- Caveat emptor.

New to my library: The Law of Nuisance in Canada (LexisNexis, 2010) - http://bit.ly/cC6gfa. Those who pester me after today should beware! :)

OHRT: Condo corp. fails to respond to human rights complaint, is given a final last chance - They better act fast! - http://bit.ly/cTjEvm

Condo unit owners with noisy dogs, read this: http://bit.ly/b8m1FG. In Ont., offenders are liable for condo's legal fees, often >$20K.

Don't stalk your property manager! - NJ man gets probation for condo conflict (via nj.com): http://bit.ly/bYa5nR 

Click here to follow us on Twitter.

Today’s poll:   Does your condo board use Twitter to keep residents up to date on what’s going on? If not, ask for a show of hands at your next AGM to see how many unit owners would appreciate receiving updates using that medium.

Property tax on condos too high - Politicians back residents’ fight to lower taxes (Yorkregion.com) - http://bit.ly/dgMFL0  

CCI Golden Horseshoe chapter presses for fair taxation: Condo dwellers seek a tax break (via Hamilton Spectator) - http://bit.ly/9OH9s7 

Tax loophole for condo conversions could cost city millions (Windsor Star) - http://bit.ly/9jwHQB

ONCA: Condo developer adequately disclosed lease of HVAC system, per Condo Act 1990, s.52; Trial decision overturned -http://bit.ly/91MbHJ

Ontario govt regulation extending the 10 yr deadline for adequate funding of condo reserve funds is now published -http://bit.ly/9xsKRT

Bob Aaron: Victory for non-smoking condo couple in B.C. - Yourhome.ca: http://bit.ly/cs0wgL

RT @CHDW_HOALaw: Breaking news: People don't like HOA lawyers... - http://bit.ly/9CcjVs

Condo boards need more regulation - Yourhome.ca:http://bit.ly/cKj0eY. No. They need to hire a professional manager and follow advice.

RT @OntMinLabour: Ontario Increases Minimum Wage -http://bit.ly/cmodlU

Toronto condos not immune to creepy crawlies: Good night, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite - http://bit.ly/azhyyi (via Lexology)

RT @RCD_Canada: City of Toronto accepting applications for Eco-Roof Incentive Program - http://bit.ly/bzTTwg

From coast to coast, Canadian Lawyer Mag (@CanLawMag) says: Condos are hot, hot, hot! - http://bit.ly/bps7jh

Serenity now for condo folks! From @TheCooperator magazine: Anger Management-Putting the Civility back into Community -http://bit.ly/apphZu

In US, banks foreclose on condo unit owners then fail to pay common expenses, so the condos foreclose on the banks -http://bit.ly/cuGC6w

ON Govt files new training/testing regulation under Private Security/Investigative Services Act; effective April 2010 -http://bit.ly/93tIiw

What we learned at Community Association Institute’s National Law Conference - http://bit.ly/cHc3K8 (via HOALawblog.com)

"Sometimes I wonder whether being on a condo board actually kills brain cells..." - http://bit.ly/9KNSeP (via @nowhereman blog)

Maryland human rights body orders condo corp to halt reconversion of Shabbat elevator installed only a year before - http://bit.ly/btSFJ6

NY Times: California seaside condos and “condotels” with hefty occupancy restrictions may be hard to unload - http://bit.ly/aOfGvH

From homes-extra.ca: How to deal with noisy condo neighbours - http://bit.ly/aFJt90

From Yorkregion.com: Habitat for Humanity seeking land to build higher-density housing (condos) in Newmarket - http://bit.ly/dC9P9T

From @nydailynews: Condo coughs up $1M for victim of hushed-up crime spree - http://bit.ly/9geyw9

OHRT: Unit owner’s human rights complaint deferred until after condo’s enforcement application is heard by Court – http://bit.ly/aq2lLt

Boston Globe: Lady buys a condo unit, suffers from neighbour's 2nd hand smoke, then sues her realtor - http://shar.es/aLe8B

The Boston Globe: Jury rejects condo owner's claim that broker misled her about smoker downstairs - http://shar.es/m1yok

Obese woman in Quebec wins human rights fight with her condo for a closer parking spot - http://tgam.ca/IHc (via @globeandmail)

Blawg Review #251 by @CanadianTMBlog in Vancouver has a special Olympic theme. Go Canada! - http://bit.ly/bZpKPw

City of London (ON) considering new application/approval process for vacant land condo developments - http://bit.ly/a28dnk

RT @utahcondolaw: Park City roofing contractor's article on ice dam solutions: "Scraping by" - SNIPS: http://bit.ly/9UChiY

Connecticut Attorney General recommends creating state condo ombud & suggests funding plan (via Hartford Guardian) - http://bit.ly/9xad2Z

Charges laid after debris falls from towers, including a condo corp - http://bit.ly/byZZdu (via CBC Calgary)

If you prefer not to wait for the best next "best of" post, you can follow me on Twitter and get these updates as they happen.

Ottawa Citizen: Condos give homeless hope - Mental health association comes to the rescue - http://bit.ly/6tXO6v

D.C. condo unit owner wins [settles?] court battle with smoker next door - http://bit.ly/6i8VAg

Ottawa Citizen: Condo mgmt demands removal of big snow fort built by unit owner for his kids in his front yard - http://bit.ly/4sGvA5

More pics of massive snow fort on front yard of Ottawa townhouse condo illustrates safety hazard - http://bit.ly/939xCQ Cool fort, though!

DC Real Estate Guide writes on the pros of joining your condo board - http://bit.ly/4oaeft - and also the cons - http://bit.ly/6tmyWx

ONCA: Condo corp's insurance doesn't cover replacement of poorly-designed standpipe system - http://bit.ly/4QeBtM

Before you buy Florida condos in distressed neighbourhoods, take note: RT @canetwork: With foreclosure comes crime - http://bit.ly/831NPS

Barrie (ON) Examiner reports on condo development trends in that town: "Condo owners living the high life" - http://bit.ly/5QXy3R

Costs to soar as aging Canadians face rising tide of dementia - Globe and Mail: http://bit.ly/5ZfUuJ - How about cost to condo corporations?

New Brunswick to ring in the new year with a new Condominium Property Act - http://bit.ly/5OH5fu 

Learn more about the microblog here, or follow me on Twitter - @chrisjaglowitz - to get live updates.

Ont. Human Rights Legal Support Centre reports on "ground-breaking legal victory" for disabled condo unit owners - http://bit.ly/5MlI0l

Toronto Globe and Mail: Queen's Park vista threatened by condo plan - http://tgam.ca/FUL

RT @canetwork: FL: HOA Prez choked by resident over Christmas light dispute http://bit.ly/82aZbs

ONCA: Installation of outdoor hot tub is not an “addition, alteration or improvement” under s. 98 of Ont. Condo Act - http://bit.ly/7eaNsM

RT @HOA_Lawyer: HOA director apologizes for giving man "the finger" at owners meeting. She's also an etiquette coach! - http://bit.ly/4IR7Jg                     

HUD charges Massachusetts condo bd and mgmt co. for discriminating against families with children - http://bit.ly/7AioLc

RT @nicolebreskin: $2.1 million Tribeca condo owner to sue neighbor over secondhand smoke - http://bit.ly/7KTpeq

Biscayne Times: Condo Life-Luxurious Comfort or Relentless Conflict? - http://bit.ly/6Nwd1y  - Bizarre tale of Miami development gone bad.

Anon. Chicago lawyer: HOAs that ask war vets to remove flags are "a good reason why my kids will go to college." - http://bit.ly/7FcD2R

National Post: City of Toronto orders condo developers to buy annual metropass for every unit: http://bit.ly/6615FT Neat idea!

 Learn more about the microblog here, then follow me on Twitter - @chrisjaglowitz.

Calgary pagan claims religious discrimination when condo bd demands removal of gargoyles from his front step - http://tinyurl.com/yf3mhkk

Toronto theatre troupe performs sketch-like improv commentary on condo living - http://tinyurl.com/ybnkzc7

Shopping for a condo means taking a hard look at fees - Winnipeg Free Press - http://shar.es/aKKWD

Parkview Point Condo Manager Busted for Organized Fraud - Miami News - http://bit.ly/1mqmjB

Chicago Sun-Times: Lawsuit vs. condo over Jewish doorpost symbol and Friday nite board meetings hangs in there - http://bit.ly/1WrXhn

Red Deer Advocate - Red Deer couple feel like 'prisoners' as condo board refuses access ramp - http://bit.ly/3aZKPS

A home-based business and condo-dwelling often don't mix - http://tgam.ca/DbS (via @globeandmail)

RT @HicksMorley: AODA Update: Final Proposed Employment Accessibility Standard Released. #EmploymentLaw http://bit.ly/2wZGtA

Is a condo a good investment? Some buildings "a time bomb of costs." http://tgam.ca/CzG (via @globeandmail)

You can follow the microblog on Twitter - @chrisjaglowitz.