Condominium communities in Ontario must comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code (the “Code”). The Code is a provincial legislation that gives everyone equal rights and opportunities without discrimination in areas such as jobs, housing, services, facilities and contracts. The Code’s goal is to prevent discrimination and harassment due to race, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, and a number of other protected grounds.

Condominium corporations must ensure their environment is one free of harassment and discrimination against any of the protected grounds. Condominiums must also provide accommodation to residents to the point of undue hardship, where a resident requires accommodation due to a need related to a protected ground.

There is an increasing number of accommodation requests and complaints of discrimination being raised at the Human Rights Tribunal by condominium residents. It is vital that condominium corporations are aware of their duties under the Code, and know how to properly respond to complaints of discrimination and/or requests for accommodation. Condominium corporations should also have a human rights policy in place, which provides a guideline for owners and residents of the condominium’s responsibilities with respect to human rights.

At Pulver on Condos, we have significant experience dealing with the Code and in addressing litigation brought at the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. We routinely act for both condominium corporations and owners/residents with respect to various human rights issues. Please feel free to reach out if you have questions or whether we can be of assistance.