Process

If you own a condo in Vancouver, Burnaby or Coquitlam, you know that your home doesn't just belong to you—it belongs to the Strata Corporation, too. Before you can tear down that kitchen wall or install those beautiful wide-plank oak floors, you need permission.

Look out your window. If you live in Vancouver or Burnaby, it is likely grey, raining, and getting dark at 4:30 PM.

There is a common saying among Vancouver homeowners: The only thing harder than buying a home in this city is getting permission to renovate it. For years, the permit office at 12th and Cambie was synonymous with long lineups and paper trails.