Tools | Readiness Check
Strata Readiness Check
Five questions about your building. The answer shows which path you are on, what your city asks for, what it charges in 2026, and the rules that apply at your number of units. Every line comes from the Strata Property Act, the Regulation or the city's own document.
Questions
Can I stratify my property? +
Most buildings with two or more principal homes can become strata titles. The path depends on whether anyone has ever occupied the building, which city it is in, and which units you want as separate lots. Secondary suites cannot be separate strata lots in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam or the City of North Vancouver.
What does "previously occupied" mean? +
Occupied at any time, for any purpose. The only exception is a unit the developer uses as a display lot (Strata Property Regulation s.14.1). One tenant, or the owner living in one unit, is enough to make the building previously occupied.
What happens if my building is previously occupied? +
The city must approve the strata plan under section 242 of the Strata Property Act. It must refuse unless the building substantially meets the city bylaws and the building code, and it weighs rental supply, tenant relocation, building life and expected repair costs. Its decision is final.
Does the city need to approve a strata plan for a new building? +
Not under the Strata Property Act. A BC land surveyor certifies on Form S that the building was never occupied, dated no more than 180 days before the plan is filed. The City of North Vancouver asks you to state the plan to stratify at building permit.
Why does the number of units matter? +
The Act changes at 4 lots (council and quorum), at 5 lots (depreciation report, electrical planning report, REDMA disclosure, court order to wind up) and at 10 lots (court override of one owner who blocks a unanimous vote).
Is the result legal advice? +
No. It shows the rules as written in the Act, the Regulation and each city document, checked October 29, 2026. Confirm your own case with a BC lawyer or notary, a BC land surveyor and the city.
Read next
Official Sources
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One app for 2 to 6 owners: the steps and documents to get your strata titles, then the budget, reserve fund, meetings, records and insurance dates once the strata exists. Join the waitlist and get access first.