Can I Install a Ductless AC Unit in a Vancouver Condo Without Strata Approval?

Have a heating or cooling question about your home? Call (604) 359-1081 or request a free written quote.

Why strata approval is almost always required

A ductless mini-split has two parts: an indoor head inside your unit and an outdoor condenser connected by refrigerant lines. The problem for condo owners is that the outdoor unit and the line-set penetration almost always touch property the strata controls, not just your own airspace.

• The balcony or patio where the condenser would sit is usually 'limited common property' — you have exclusive use, but the strata still governs alterations to it.
• Mounting the condenser and running lines means drilling through an exterior wall, which is part of the building envelope (common property).
• Condensers add weight, vibration and noise that can affect neighbours and the building's insurance and warranty.
• Many buildings have bylaws covering exterior appearance, drilling, and mechanical equipment on balconies.

Because of this, the vast majority of Metro Vancouver stratas require written approval — and often a signed alteration agreement — before any ductless AC install. Doing the work without it can force you to remove the unit at your own cost and be held liable for any damage.

What to submit to your strata

Getting approval is usually straightforward if you come prepared. Council wants to know the work will be done safely, by a licensed contractor, and without harming the building. A typical request package includes:

• A written request describing the equipment, where the indoor and outdoor units go, and how the line-set is routed.
• Specs for the outdoor unit, including its noise rating, since neighbour noise is a common council concern.
• Proof your installer is licensed and insured — CANRO holds a Technical Safety BC gas licence, is WorkSafeBC covered and carries liability insurance.
• Confirmation that wall penetrations will be properly sealed to protect the building envelope.
• An alteration agreement if your strata uses one — this usually makes you responsible for future maintenance and any related repairs.

Check your strata bylaws first (your property manager can send them), and give council enough lead time — approvals are often voted on at a scheduled council meeting rather than same-day.

How CANRO helps condo owners get approved

We install ductless mini-splits in condos and townhomes across Metro Vancouver, so we're used to the strata process. During a free written quote we can spec the exact equipment, provide noise ratings and licensing details your council will ask for, and plan the least-invasive routing for the line-set. That documentation package is often what gets an application over the line.

CANRO is an independent licensed contractor — Red Seal certified and serving Metro Vancouver since 1999. To get started, call (604) 359-1081 or email info@canroheat.ca and we'll help you put together what your strata needs.

Frequently asked questions

Reviewed by the CANRO Heating & Cooling service team — July 07, 2026. Technical Safety BC gas licence LGA0043870 · boiler licence LBP0046450 · Red Seal certified · WorkSafeBC and liability insured · 4.9★ from 85+ Google reviews · serving Metro Vancouver since 1999 · (604) 359-1081.