What's the Difference - CMRAO VS. CAO... Also, Spot the Difference!

Can you spot the differences in this picture in 10 seconds? Do you know the differences between the CMRAO and the CAO, and what both compliance bodies do within the condominium industry? Credit is due to the CMRAO and CAO websites. Condominium Authority of Ontario (CAO)

• Mandatory director training

• Dispute resolution via the Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT)

• Filing systems for condo returns and notices of change

• Public registry & annual calendar of condo obligations

  
  

Condominium Management Regulatory Authority of Ontario (CMRAO)

The CMRAO licenses condo managers and management providers and enforces a Code of Ethics, including discipline, complaint handling, and compliance oversight.

The CMRAO also governs the Condominium Management Services Act; Condo Management Service Providers maintain the following;

• Written management contracts outlining all services.

• Avoiding conflicts of interest, especially during contract negotiation and board meetings.

• Proper record‑keeping and transparent handling of financials.

• Adhering to the Code of Ethics, including honesty, integrity, and professionalism.

The CMRAO is also fantastic at highlighting Property Management as a career, kudos to that!

So you want to be a Board Member for your condominium. You have responsibilities that should be well understood before embarking on this volunteer role, as few realize that one can be held personally responsible for issues arising from their decisions (or lack thereof!).

The CAO mandates that every condo corporation board must ensure that directors complete the mandatory CAO Director Training within six months of election or appointment. This gives board members a crash course in Condo Management and their responsibilities.

Wait, what about the CAT? The Condominium Authority Tribunal: What does this body do?

The CAT offers online dispute resolution for issues such as:

• Records access

• Nuisance (noise, smoke, pets)

• Parking & storage disputes

• Module‑specific issues as its jurisdiction expands

  
  

Condo managers must:

• Participate in CAT cases

• Maintain proper documentation

• Follow procedural orders promptly

  
  

Non‑compliance can result in orders, costs, and reputational risk.

Your key takeaway, outside the Condominium Act, is that there are various regulatory requirements that not only Condominium Service Providers and Managers must comply with, but also the Board of Directors.

Blog Contributor - Angel Reiner