Condo Inspections: No Less Valuable Than A Home Inspection
Condo Inspection Services in Calgary
A focused inspection of the unit’s interior systems and finishes.
Understand what you’re buying before conditions become your responsibility.
Ideal for buyers, first-time owners, and anyone purchasing without relying on a realtor’s guidance.
Unit-Level Issues Still Matter
Condo ownership doesn’t remove risk—your unit still contains plumbing, electrical, HVAC components, and moisture-sensitive finishes.
Clarifies What’s Yours vs The Board’s
Condo inspections help you understand the boundary between unit responsibilities and what’s typically managed by the condo corporation.
Focused, Buyer-Friendly Guidance
You’ll receive practical next steps and clear prioritization so you can make informed decisions before conditions become your cost.
What is a Condo Inspection?
A condo inspection is a professional evaluation of the interior of the unit and its accessible systems. While many exterior components and common areas are typically maintained by the condo corporation, the unit itself still contains critical systems that can be costly to repair—especially where issues affect neighbouring units.
Condo inspections are limited to areas that are accessible and safely visible at the time of the inspection.
What a Condo Inspection Typically Does Not Cover
Many condo buyers assume an inspection automatically includes the full building. In most cases, the inspection is focused on the unit interior and does not include:
• Roof coverings and exterior cladding (typically common property)
• Building-wide mechanical systems (shared equipment)
• Parkades, elevators, and common amenities
• Financial health of the condo corporation, reserve fund status, or special assessments
Why Condo Inspections Are Worth It
A condo can be just as significant an investment as a detached home. The difference is that responsibility is split between unit-level ownership and the condo corporation—but problems inside the unit can still become expensive quickly.
A condo inspection helps identify concerns early, supports negotiation where appropriate, and gives you a clearer understanding of what you’re taking on before closing.
HOW THE CONDO INSPECTION PROCESS WORKS
1. SCHEDULE & ACCESS
Book online or by phone. We’ll ask that you confirm access requirements or procedures, and any unit restrictions.
2. Focused On-Site Inspection
A detailed inspection of the unit interior and accessible systems, with attention to moisture indicators and performance concerns.
3. Clear Reporting & SUPPORT
You receive a photo-rich digital report with prioritized findings and clear next steps, typically the same day.
What’s Typically Included in a Condo Inspection?
ELECTRICAL
Panel observations, receptacles, switches, GFCI/AFCI presence where applicable, visible wiring concerns, functional checks of typical circuits.
PLUMBING & FIXTURES
Supply and drain observations, fixture operation, visible leaks or staining, water pressure indicators, under-sink plumbing conditions.
Heating / Cooling / Ventilation
Unit HVAC equipment (where accessible), thermostat operation, bathroom/kitchen ventilation performance indicators, comfort inconsistencies.
Interior Finishes & Condition
Walls, ceilings, floors, trims and doors—signs of settlement, previous repairs, moisture staining, and workmanship concerns.
Windows & Doors
Operation, drafts, condensation patterns, visible sealing issues, and safety/egress considerations where applicable.
Safety Features
Smoke/CO alarms presence where applicable, basic safety observations, visible fire/safety concerns affecting the unit interior.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is a condo inspection really necessary if the building is “managed by the condo board”?
Yes. The condo corporation typically manages common property, but unit-level systems—plumbing, electrical, HVAC components, finishes, windows/doors and ventilation can still create major cost and risk for owners.
What’s the biggest mistake condo buyers make?
Assuming the inspection covers the entire building. A condo inspection is primarily focused on the unit interior and accessible systems. Condo documents and reserve fund planning are separate due diligence items. Together, these items create the full picture.
What if the unit is tenanted or cluttered?
Inspections are limited to areas that are safely accessible and visible at the time of inspection. Any limitations will be documented and may affect what can be confirmed.
Can condo issues affect other units?
Yes. Water leaks, drainage issues, and certain ventilation or plumbing problems can impact neighbouring units. Identifying concerns early reduces the chance of surprises after possession.
Does experience with multi-family construction matter for condo inspections?
Yes. Condos often involve different systems, shared services, and construction approaches. An inspector familiar with these building types is better positioned to identify common deficiencies and performance concerns.
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Do you Inspect Condos Outside Calgary?
Yes. Service is available throughout Calgary and surrounding communities, including Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, and Okotoks. Inspections outside these areas may be subject to additional travel fees, depending on location.
READY TO SCHEDULE YOUR CONDO INSPECTION?
For any inquiries or to schedule an inspection, feel free to email us at chris@calgaryhomeinspector.ca, text 825-863-2372, or book a time slot online.
Not looking for a condo inspection? Check out our other home inspection services to find the one that’s right for you.
We’re proud to extend our services beyond Calgary. We offer home inspection services in Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, Okotoks and more!