For a lot of buyers and renters, whether a building genuinely welcomes pets is a dealbreaker question, not an afterthought. Here's what to actually confirm before you move into Riverside Square with a dog or cat.
Why Condo Pet Policies Aren't One-Size-Fits-All
Under Ontario's Condominium Act, condo corporations can establish reasonable rules around pets — including restrictions on number, size, weight, or breed — provided those rules are properly documented in the corporation's governing declaration and by-laws. This means pet policies genuinely vary building to building, even within the same broader community like Riverside Square's five addresses.
What to Actually Confirm Before You Commit
Number of pets permitted per unit. Most condo corporations cap this, commonly at one or two pets.
Size or weight restrictions, particularly relevant for larger dog breeds.
Any breed-specific restrictions, which some corporations do include in their rules.
Designated pet relief areas or building-specific etiquette rules, including elevator and common-area policies for pet owners.
Whether the specific policy differs across 15, 25, 30, 45 Baseball Place, or 665 Queen Street E — don't assume a policy you read about one building automatically applies community-wide.
Why This Matters More for Renters Specifically
If you're renting rather than buying, remember that a landlord's own lease terms can add an additional layer of restriction on top of the condo corporation's rules — even if the building broadly permits pets, an individual landlord can still choose not to allow them in their specific unit's lease. When applying to rent at Riverside Square, confirm the specific unit's pet policy directly with the landlord or property manager, not just the building's general reputation.
What to Do If You're Not Sure a Building Allows Pets
Ask directly and get it in writing before you commit — whether you're buying or signing a lease. Verbal assurances from a listing agent aren't a substitute for confirming the actual condo declaration and by-laws, or the specific lease terms if you're renting.
What This Means for Landlords Renting Out a Unit Here
If you own a unit at Riverside Square and are deciding whether to permit pets in your lease, consider that pet-friendly units often draw a larger applicant pool in a building and neighbourhood known for its walkability and green space access nearby — a genuine competitive advantage if you're trying to minimize vacancy time, provided you factor in appropriate protections like a higher security consideration where permitted under Ontario law.
The Bottom Line
Riverside Square's community-wide reputation as walkable and livable doesn't guarantee a uniform pet policy across all five buildings — confirm the specific rules for your building and unit before you commit, whether you're buying or renting.
Have a pet and looking for a unit at Riverside Square that welcomes them? Reach out to our team and we can point you toward current pet-friendly availability.
