After saving, searching and putting in countless hours, you’re almost ready to move into your new condo unit. Moving into a condo is an undeniably exciting time; however, there are a handful of things that should be addressed before you start to celebrate your big purchase.
Before you make the big move, you should consider hiring a condo inspector to complete a condo inspection.
Although many buyers choose to forego condo unit inspections, they are a critical aspect of the condo-buying process (especially if you’re moving into an older unit).
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Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about getting a condo inspection. We also touch on the four things that must be checked during the inspection.
What is a condo unit inspection in Canada?
A condo inspection is a visual examination of an individual condo unit (not the entire building).
During condo inspections, condo inspectors will assess the condition and quality of various aspects of the unit. Some examples include HVAC units and systems, fixtures, appliances and electrical work.
You do not need to be at the condo inspection, but most experts suggest that you take part in the process, as it gives you the opportunity to ask questions and point out potential issues that you’ve previously spotted.
After the condo inspection is done, the inspector will provide you with a detailed report of their findings. The report will state any issues with the unit, along with suggestions for dealing with the problems.
Why are condo unit inspections important for buyers in Canada?
Condo unit inspections are incredibly beneficial for condo buyers, as they can help them learn about potential issues or repairs that need to be addressed before they take ownership of the unit.
Additionally, if something happens in the future and the condo company blames you, you can use the condo inspection report as proof that the component of your unit was in good condition. This can help you avoid paying for unnecessary repairs.
That being said, condo unit inspections are particularly important in two situations: you’re buying an old condo that has been renovated, or there are HVAC units located directly in the condo.
Renovated condo unit
If you’re buying an old condo unit that has been recently renovated, getting an inspection can help you spot issues related to poor craftsmanship, incorrect installation, etc.
HVAC units directly in condo
If there are heating or cooling units located directly in your condo, you (as the condo owner) are responsible for their maintenance and upkeep. By getting an inspection, you can pinpoint any issues that need to be dealt with before you move into the unit.
Condo inspection checklist for buyers in Canada
Even though your condo inspector will know what issues to look for, it doesn’t hurt to familiarize yourself with the process.
Continue reading for our condo unit and apartment inspection checklist:
Fixtures
“Fixtures” is a broad term that refers to permanent components of a condo unit. Some common examples of fixtures include floors, ceilings, walls, windows, etc.
While assessing the fixtures in your condo unit, your inspector will look for several signs of damage, including:
- Water damage and leaks
- Dents
- Scuffs
- Chips
- Cracks
- Window spotting
The forms of damage listed above can be signs of foundational issues, mold and much more.
Kitchen and bathroom appliances
During a home inspection for condo units, inspectors also assess the condition and quality of the kitchen and bathroom appliances.
The condo inspector will test the units to ensure that they are working correctly and won’t pose a risk to the condo owner or other occupants in the building.
Condo inspectors can also send in serial numbers to check if any of your appliances have been recalled in the past (this is generally not done in regular home inspections).
Heating and cooling units
As mentioned earlier, if you have any heating or cooling units in your condo, you are technically responsible for their maintenance and upkeep. In this situation, you need to ensure that your condo inspector is aware of the units and thoroughly inspects them.
If the heating or cooling unit is old, your inspector will let you know and provide recommendations for replacements.
In contrast, if you don’t get your heating or cooling units inspected, you may end up coming home to a faulty heater or AC a few weeks after moving into your condo. To make matters worse, you’ll be financially responsible for the repairs!
Electrical
The inspector will also assess the condition of the electrical systems throughout the condo home inspection process.
This is an incredibly important part of the condo unit inspection process, as it can help you identify potential electrical issues (like faulty outlets) and prevent fire hazards. Taking this precaution can help keep you and other residents in the building safe.
With all of this information in mind, it’s easy to see that getting a condo inspection is a crucial part of the condo-buying process in Canada.
Compare condo insurance quotes in Canada with a Surex insurance advisor
Getting a professional condo inspection is a fantastic way to prevent avoidable hazards and threats, like fires, from occurring in your unit.
But what happens when an unforeseen incident occurs that damages your unit? Or what do you do if one of the other occupants in the building floods their unit and accidentally damages your condo?
That’s where condo insurance comes in.
At Surex, we work hard to make it easier for everyday Canadians to find high-quality, low-cost condo insurance quotes.
Our team of insurance advisors (our preferred title for insurance brokers) do this by working with the best condo insurance companies in Canada, including Gore Mutual and Aviva. When you reach out to your personal insurance advisor online or over the phone, you get access to the best condo insurance quotes in the country.
Contact one of our trusted advisors today to learn to receive your collection of condo insurance quotes in ten minutes or less!
Additionally, if you already have auto insurance coverage, don’t forget to ask your advisor about the benefits of bundling your policies with the same insurer!
