Bill 16 Now in Effect: Everything You Need to Know

Patience Pays Off

After years of anticipation, the regulations linked to Bill 16 were officially adopted on July 30, 2025, and came into force on August 14, 2025. All condominiums now have three years — until August 14, 2028 — to comply with these new requirements, including conducting a reserve fund study and updating their maintenance log.

The Three Major Obligations for Condominiums

Bill 16 now requires every condo syndicate to have three essential documents prepared and kept up to date:

🧾 The Maintenance Log
💰 The Reserve Fund Study
📄 The Syndicate Certificate (physical and financial state of the condominium)

These three tools aim to improve planning, financing, and the long-term protection of buildings.

1️⃣ The Maintenance Log: Planning and Building Memory

The maintenance log provides a detailed inventory of all common areas (roof, structure, parking, balconies, mechanical systems, etc.) and the materials or equipment that make them up.

The Two Main Functions of the Log

Planning: It includes a list of common elements, their installation date, current condition, remaining lifespan, and major work planned over at least 25 years, with cost estimates.
Archiving: It must be updated annually by the syndicate to record all completed work, contracts, warranties, invoices, and inspection reports.

Frequency of Updates

The maintenance log must be reviewed by a professional every five years (or ten years for small condominiums).

2️⃣ The Reserve Fund Study: Financial Planning

Its Role

The reserve fund study assesses the cost of major repairs and replacements anticipated in the maintenance log. It determines how much each co-owner must contribute annually to ensure the building’s financial health.

What It Must Include

The estimated cost of the work to be done over 25 years;
The annual amount to be deposited in the fund;
Any special contributions required to replenish the fund during the first 10 years if it’s insufficient;
A plan ensuring a positive balance at all times to cover future expenses.

Deadlines and Updates

The study must be completed no later than August 14, 2028;
It must then be updated every five years.

3️⃣ The Syndicate Certificate: Transparency and Trust

The syndicate certificate must be issued whenever a co-owner sells their unit. It informs potential buyers about the physical and financial condition of the condominium.

Required Information

The amount in the reserve fund and the study’s recommendation regarding minimum annual contributions;
The common fees for the past three years (required and paid);
The available liquidities for operating expenses;
The surplus or deficit for the past three financial statements;
The budget forecast for the current year;
A summary of inspections, major repairs, claims, and any ongoing litigation.

This certificate strengthens transparency between sellers, buyers, and syndicates.

Who Can Prepare These Documents?

The maintenance log and the reserve fund study must be produced by a qualified and independent professional, who is a member of one of the following professional orders:

Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ)
Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)
Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ)
Ordre des évaluateurs agréés du Québec (OEAQ)

Why It Matters

Bill 16 represents a major reform in condominium management across Quebec. Its goals are to:

Prevent unexpected special assessments;
Encourage rigorous and transparent management;
Preserve the property’s market value;
Ensure the safety and comfort of all occupants.

In other words, it requires condo boards to plan ahead and maintain their buildings rather than simply reacting to emergencies.

THomXpert: Your Partner for Bill 16 Compliance

At THomXpert, we support condo syndicates throughout their Bill 16 compliance process:

Creation of a complete and compliant maintenance log;
Preparation of a reserve fund study with a realistic financial plan;
Assistance with the syndicate certificate for property sales.

👷‍♂️ With over 20 years of experience, THomXpert provides rigorous, personalized, and transparent service. We take the time to understand your condo’s needs and financial reality to deliver a realistic, practical study.

🔧 Bill 16 isn’t a burden — it’s an opportunity to protect your investment.

👉 Contact THomXpert today for a personalized assessment and make sure your condominium is ready before the August 14, 2028 deadline.

Bill 16 Now in Effect: Everything You Need to Know