Do I get a copy of the condo's by-laws and rules with the status certificate?

Yes. Under Ontario's Condominium Act, 1998, a status certificate must be accompanied by or include a statement of any by-laws and rules of the corporation, or it must provide them as attachments. In practice, you should receive the full current by-laws and rules as part of the status certificate package, along with the declaration if it has not already been provided.

This is one of the most important aspects of the status certificate review. The governing documents can contain restrictions that significantly affect how you can use, renovate, rent, or even decorate your unit. Restrictions on pets, short-term rentals, noise levels, hardwood flooring (due to noise transfer to neighbours), smoking, and parking use are commonly embedded in these documents.

Many buyers focus on the financial information in the certificate and skim the governing documents. Taking the time — within the 10-day review window — to read the by-laws and rules, or having your lawyer flag provisions relevant to your intended use, can prevent expensive surprises after closing.