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Strata approval is often the slowest step in an exterior installation on a BC condo or townhouse. This guide walks through the process that consistently works, and includes a request letter template you can adapt.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-14 · Five Eight Twelve Technical Team
Under BC's Strata Property Act, anything that attaches to the common property or limited common property of a strata-titled building requires strata council approval. For most exterior shading and security installations on condos and townhouses — including balcony awnings, exterior screens, and roll shutters — this approval is not optional.
Skipping approval and installing anyway exposes the owner to removal orders, fines, and personal liability for any resulting damage — far more expensive and stressful than the approval process itself.
A successful request package includes:
Adapt the template below to your specific installation — read the paragraphs carefully and replace the placeholders in brackets:
Dear Strata Council, [Strata Plan #] — [Building Name],
I am the registered owner of Unit [X] and I am writing to formally request approval to install [product type — e.g., a motorized retractable awning] on my [balcony / patio / exterior wall] facing [direction].
The proposed installation is a [specific product name and manufacturer — e.g., Stobag box cassette retractable awning], approximately [dimensions], finished in [color] to match the building's existing palette. The unit will attach to [description of attachment — e.g., the concrete balcony slab above my unit] using [attachment method — e.g., stainless-steel bracket anchors sealed with approved exterior sealant].
I have engaged [installer name] to complete the installation. [Installer name] holds current $[X]M commercial liability insurance and has completed similar installations at [other strata properties if applicable]. I attach the installer's insurance certificate and the manufacturer's product specification sheet.
I will assume full responsibility for ongoing maintenance and for any future removal and remediation of the attachment points should that become necessary. I further confirm that all envelope penetrations will be sealed per the installer's standard methods and will be warrantied for [X] years.
I would be grateful for the Council's consideration at the next scheduled meeting. I am happy to attend in person or provide additional information if helpful.
Sincerely, [Owner Name], Unit [X], [Date]
The most frequent issues:
Budget 4–8 weeks from complete submission to written approval. Practical tips:
If the denial is based on a specific concern (attachment method, color, etc.), address that concern and resubmit. If the denial is general or the council refuses to approve any similar installations, you have limited further options — speak to a lawyer familiar with the Strata Property Act about next steps, or consider owner-level discussion and AGM motions.
A fully portable item (e.g., a freestanding umbrella on a weighted base, a removable shade sail attached only to movable posts) may not require approval because it doesn't attach to strata property. Anything bolted, screwed, or sealed to the building requires approval.
Some strata councils maintain an approved installer list, particularly for larger buildings with recurring requests. Using an approved installer streamlines the process significantly — ask the property manager up-front.