Condo HVAC systems provide heating, cooling, and ventilation for both individual units and shared spaces. In Canada’s extreme climate (hot summers and cold winters), keeping them in good working order is essential, but figuring out who’s responsible for maintenance, repairs, or replacement can be confusing.
Responsibility often depends on your condo’s declaration and bylaws, so it’s important to know what falls on you and what’s covered by the condo association. In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you.
Do condos have their own HVAC?
In Canada, some condo units have their own individual HVAC systems, while others don’t. Units with a shared HVAC system usually share all or part of the system with the building.
Exact HVAC setups can vary widely from one condo building to another. For example, older buildings may have centralized systems, outdated controls, or a mix of old and new components from partial upgrades.
The type of condo building influences the HVAC configuration:
- High-rise condos often rely on centralized HVAC systems, which feature large boilers, chillers, or rooftop units that serve multiple condo units via ductwork or piping
- Townhouses or low-rise condo complexes are more likely to have individual HVAC units, such as furnaces, boilers, or heat pumps
Common HVAC system configurations in Canadian condos include:
- Centralized system (fully shared)
- Individual in-unit system (fully owned by the unit owner)
- Hybrid systems combining shared and in-unit components
The way the HVAC system is set up directly affects who is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
Who is responsible for HVAC in a condo in Canada?
Responsibility for HVAC in a condo usually depends on whether the system is part of the building’s shared infrastructure or if it consists of individual components located entirely within your unit.
Here’s a general breakdown of who’s responsible for what:
- Centralized systems that serve the entire building are typically the responsibility of the condo corporation. Repairs and maintenance are usually paid for through condo fees collected from all unit owners.
- Individual systems that serve only your unit are generally your responsibility for maintenance and repairs. This includes components like motors, thermostats, and other parts that directly impact your condo’s heating and cooling.
Review your condo declaration, bylaws, and rules carefully to know exactly what falls under your responsibility versus the condo association’s.
Is HVAC covered by condo insurance?
Condo insurance may cover HVAC systems, depending on whether the system is shared or individual.
- Shared HVAC systems are usually covered by the condo corporation’s master insurance policy, but only for damage caused by specific events, such as fire, storms, or vandalism. For example, if a building-wide fire destroys an HVAC system, the condo corporation’s insurance would typically cover repairs or replacement.
- Individual in-unit HVAC components may be covered under your personal condo insurance, but again, only for damage from covered perils, such as a fire.
In either case, routine maintenance, normal wear and tear, or replacing the system due to age will typically not be covered by insurance. Whether you or the condo corporation pays for these costs depends on whether the HVAC components are considered common elements or part of your individual unit.
For instance, if your HVAC is part of a centralized system and major repairs aren’t covered by insurance, the condo corporation may issue a special assessment to cover the cost, meaning all owners would contribute.
Always review your insurance policy, understand what your condo association covers, and be prepared for potential special assessments.
Next steps
Understanding who’s responsible for your condo’s HVAC system starts with reviewing your condo declaration, bylaws, and rules carefully. When in doubt, consult with your property manager or condo association for clarity.
No matter who’s responsible, it’s always smart to protect your unit and belongings with condo insurance. Enjoy peace of mind and stay protected with coverage starting at just $12/month.
