Two crusaders for condo owners' rights in Ontario say an alleged fraud of $4.1 million from local corporations is tragic but not surprising.

The multimillion-dollar loss is an "appalling case" that likely means condo owners will face increased fees unless some of the money is recovered, said Anne-Marie Ambert of the Condo Information Centre.

"Some people will say these are rare occurrences, but no, no, no, no, it's not," she added. "Fraud in the condo industry is very common."

Her comments come following the news a St. Catharines man was charged with defrauding 13 Hamilton and Burlington condominium corporations of $4.1 million.