Addressing the most common issues in condominium living Advertorial (NC) Living in a condominium provides all kinds of benefits, including freedom from rou- tine maintenance such as lawn care or snow shoveling to security. Many people also enjoy the sense of community and accessing shared amenities including fitness centres and party rooms. However, living in close quarters with others can sometimes lead to issues that need to be resolved. Noise and unpleasant or unwanted odours are among the most common concerns raised by those living in condominiums. Sounds and smells can travel from one unit to another or into common spaces. Fortunately, resources are available to help you find solutions before they escalate into dis- putes. Condominium owners can easily find resourc- es for addressing the top issues in condo liv-es for addressing the top issues in condo liv-es for addressing the top issues in condo liv ing on the Condominium Authority of Ontario's (CAO) website. You'll find guided steps to take you through self-help resources that can assist you with these and other common issues, such as pets, short- term rentals and condominium managers. The Guided Steps to Common Issues provides four steps that can help you manage an issue. Using noise as an example, here are the four steps to help guide you through this issue: • Understand the issue itself. Noise complaints are one of the most common condominium issues. In many instances, living in a condominium will mean living close to your neighbours, and sounds from one unit can travel into another unit or into the common elements. • Legal considerations. If you receive a complaint or are having an issue with unwant-complaint or are having an issue with unwant-complaint or are having an issue with unwant ed noise, start by reviewing your condomin- ium's by-laws and rules. Most condominium corporations have rules about creating noise and disturbing other residents. • Solutions. The next step is to notify the corporation about your concerns and then you may want to follow up with your board in writ-may want to follow up with your board in writ-may want to follow up with your board in writ ing. • Additional help. Sometimes people re- quire extra help to solve a dispute. You can consult with a mediator or arbitrator. If the is- sue continues, then you may consider seeing a lawyer or a paralegal. • On the CAO's website, you'll find infor-On the CAO's website, you'll find infor-On the CAO's website, you'll find infor mation, tools and templates that can help you better understand the issues so that you can work with your neighbours to resolve disputes and live harmoniously. Find more information at condoauthorityontario.ca. 23 | O akville B eaver | T hursday,M arch 12,2020 insidehalton.com HOME OF THE WEEK 2368 Hixon St, Oakville - $2,890,000 905. 502. 1500 McDADI.COM