Important change for all condo sales. Since August 14, 2025, anyone selling a condominium unit in Quebec must include a certificate issued by the syndicate of co-owners. This requirement is now in effect and applies to all transactions.
What is the Syndicate Certificate?
The syndicate certificate (attestation du syndicat) is an official document that provides transparency to potential buyers about the financial and physical state of the building. It must be provided by the syndicate within 15 days of a request.
What Must the Certificate Include?
The certificate must disclose:
- Contingency fund status - Current balance and contribution levels
- Contingency fund study compliance - Whether the syndicate follows the study's recommendations
- Planned major works - All significant repairs planned for the next 10 years
- Special assessments - Any upcoming or pending special contributions
- Outstanding legal proceedings - Lawsuits or disputes involving the syndicate
- Insurance information - Building insurance details and coverage
Impact on Unit Sales
Without a valid syndicate certificate:
- Sales can be delayed or fall through
- Buyers may back out due to lack of transparency
- Notaries may refuse to proceed with the transaction
- Legal disputes may arise after the sale
Preparing Your Syndicate
To be ready to issue certificates on demand:
- Ensure your maintenance logbook is up to date - This is a prerequisite
- Complete your contingency fund study - Or have a plan to complete it
- Maintain accurate financial records - Know your fund balances and projections
- Document all planned works - Keep a 10-year capital plan
- Designate a responsible person - Someone who can issue certificates within 15 days
For Sellers
When selling your unit:
- Request the certificate from your syndicate early in the process
- Allow at least 15 days for the syndicate to prepare it
- Review the certificate before sharing with potential buyers
- Be prepared to answer questions about the building's condition
For Buyers
When purchasing a condo:
- Always request the syndicate certificate before finalizing your offer
- Review the contingency fund status carefully
- Check for planned major works that could mean special assessments
- Verify the syndicate is following its contingency fund study recommendations
Resources
The syndicate certificate brings much-needed transparency to condo transactions. Make sure your syndicate is prepared to issue compliant certificates on demand.
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- Document storage for your maintenance logbook and compliance records
- Voting system for AGMs and board decisions
- Member management with unit assignments
- AI assistant to answer your condo management questions