Hard floors in a strata. Approved first.
Check your strata’s written approval and sound-rating requirements before removing carpet. Here’s how to plan the application, plus a letter you can adapt for your building.
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Four steps before installation.
- 01Get the bylaw. Ask your strata manager for the flooring bylaw and any minimum sound rating (IIC) in writing. The BC standard bylaws don't set one; each building sets its own.
- 02Choose an assembly that meets it. Sound ratings apply to a tested floor assembly, including the floor, underlay, slab and any ceiling below. We help you compare the test data with your building’s requirements.
- 03Apply in writing. Send council the request letter, the product spec sheets and the acoustic test report. Use the letter below.
- 04Install to the tested assembly. We install exactly what was approved and follow the building's rules for hours, elevators and debris.
Your strata request, written for you.
Fill in what you know. Blanks stay as placeholders. Then copy it into an email to your strata manager and attach the spec sheets and test report.
Strata flooring questions.
What IIC rating does my strata require?
Your strata’s written bylaws set the requirement; there is no single sound rating that applies to every building. Ask your strata manager which ratings and test reports the council requires before choosing the floor and underlay.
Do I need approval to replace carpet with hardwood in my condo?
In most BC stratas, yes. Bylaws commonly require written council approval before hard flooring goes in, with the underlay's sound test data attached.
What happens if I install without approval?
You may face enforcement or a requirement to change non-compliant flooring. Confirm your building’s approval process and keep its written decision before work begins.
Is IIC the same as STC?
No. IIC measures impact noise like footsteps, which is the one that matters most for floors. STC measures airborne sound like voices.
Does a thicker underlay always mean quieter?
Not necessarily. Ratings come from lab tests of a specific assembly of flooring, underlay, slab and ceiling. Match your installation to the tested assembly.
Planning a condo floor?
Rooms, rough size and the floor you have in mind. Brody will follow up to arrange a free measure, usually within 2 days.
Prefer to talk? 604-716-4160 · [email protected]
Plan it first: