Is Your Condo Website Compliant with BC’s Strata Property Act?

In today’s digital age, many strata corporations in British Columbia are turning to condo websites to improve communication, streamline document access, and increase transparency with owners. But as strata councils embrace technology, a key question arises: Is your condo website compliant with BC’s Strata Property Act?

Let’s explore what compliance means, why it matters, and how to ensure your online platform supports—not violates—provincial legislation.

What the Strata Property Act Says About Information Access

The Strata Property Act (SPA) and Strata Property Regulation outline clear requirements for records retention, owner access to information, and privacy. While the Act doesn’t directly reference websites, any tool used to share strata information— whether paper-based or digital—must meet these legal standards.

Under Section 35 of the Act, strata corporations are required to retain certain records, including:

• Minutes of council and general meetings
• Strata bylaws and rules
• Financial statements and budgets
• Strata plans, legal notices, and insurance policies
• Correspondence sent to all owners

Under Section 36, owners and authorized agents have the right to access and request copies of these records within a specified time frame.

So, if you’re posting these documents on your condo website, they must:

• Be current and complete
• Be accessible to authorized individuals only
• Remain available for the required retention period (often several years)

Common Compliance Pitfalls

Strata councils often set up websites with good intentions but overlook critical legal details. Here are common mistakes that could put your strata at risk:

1. Posting private documents without access controls

Sharing meeting minutes or financials on a public webpage can violate privacy and access rules. Documents meant for owners must be protected behind a secure login.

2. Not maintaining proper version control

The Act requires the most current bylaws, rules, and financial statements to be available. Outdated or incorrect documents can lead to disputes or misinformation.

3. Failing to back up digital records

A condo website should not be the only place important documents live. You’re still required to keep formal records that can be produced in other formats if requested.

4. Not responding to access requests in a timely manner

Even if documents are online, owners can still formally request copies. A strata corporation must respond within the statutory period (commonly 14 days).

Privacy and Security: A Legal Obligation

In addition to the Strata Property Act, the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) applies to how you collect, use, and share personal information online.

If your condo website includes:

• Owner directories
• Unit numbers linked to names
• Meeting recordings
• Email communications

…you must ensure consent has been obtained and the content is shared in accordance with privacy regulations.

How to Stay Compliant (and Confident)

Here are some simple steps you can take to ensure your condo website supports legal compliance:

• Use Password-Protected Portals: Provide secure logins for owners to access private strata documents and meeting minutes.
• Keep an Updated Document Repository: Assign responsibility for uploading the most current documents (bylaws, AGM minutes, financials) and archiving past records.
• Maintain a Backup Plan: Ensure your digital records are backed up offline or in a separate secure environment.
• Limit Personal Information: Avoid publishing personal contact info, unit numbers, or photos without consent.
• Choose a Platform Built for Strata Compliance: Web platforms like eStrata.ca are designed with BC strata regulations in mind. Features like permission-based access, document versioning, and automated backups help your council stay compliant with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

A well-run condo website can significantly reduce administrative burden and improve owner satisfaction—but only if it aligns with BC’s legal requirements. By understanding the Strata Property Act and taking a compliance-first approach, your strata council can enjoy the benefits of digital communication without legal missteps.

Need help setting up a compliant condo website?
Contact eStrata to learn how we support BC strata councils with secure, user-friendly online tools.