Frequently Asked Questions

 RGI is a subsidy program that reduces housing charges for eligible low-income members to approximately 30% of their gross household income. Ontario coops with RGI units must administer the program according to the Housing Services Act, including annual income reviews, eligibility assessments, and proper documentation. Pro Edge handles all aspects of RGI administration on behalf of your coop.

 Ontario coop boards are governed primarily by the Co-operative Corporations Act and, for social housing coops, the Housing Services Act. Key obligations include holding annual general meetings, maintaining proper financial records, enforcing by-laws consistently, maintaining the property in a good state of repair, and complying with all applicable health and safety legislation.

 Ontario coops are required to have a reserve fund study conducted by a qualified professional. The study should be updated every five years, or sooner if significant changes occur to the property. The reserve fund study helps your board plan for major capital expenditures and ensure adequate reserves are maintained.

 Eviction of a coop member in Ontario involves a formal process through the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). Grounds for eviction must be established under the Residential Tenancies Act or your coop's by-laws. The process includes serving proper notices, filing an application with the LTB, attending a hearing, and enforcing any resulting order. Pro Edge manages this process professionally and in full compliance with Ontario law.

 When a unit becomes vacant, coops must follow their internal waitlist policies and any applicable government requirements. This includes advertising the vacancy appropriately, processing applications from the waitlist in order, conducting eligibility reviews (including RGI eligibility if applicable), and completing proper move-in documentation. Pro Edge handles the entire process from vacancy to occupancy.

 Several funding programs are available to Ontario coops for capital improvements, including programs through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Infrastructure Ontario, and municipal housing programs. Eligibility and available funding vary by coop type, location, and project. Pro Edge can assess your coop's eligibility and manage the application process.

 By-law violations should be addressed consistently and fairly, following your coop's established enforcement procedures. This typically involves issuing a written notice of the violation, providing the member an opportunity to remedy the situation, and escalating to formal proceedings if the violation continues. Consistent enforcement is important to avoid claims of selective or discriminatory treatment.

Ontario coops must comply with the Ontario Fire Code, which includes requirements for fire alarm systems, sprinklers (in applicable buildings), emergency lighting, exit signage, fire extinguishers, and regular inspections and testing. Annual fire safety inspections and proper record-keeping are mandatory. Pro Edge coordinates all required inspections and ensures your coop remains fully compliant.