Condo Inspections: No Less Valuable Than A Home Inspection

Do I Need a Condo Inspection?

In short – absolutely! Opting for a condo inspection is a critical contingency you should never skip. There’s a common misconception that because a condo offers less real estate than a home, it’s somehow less important or valuable. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. As your trusted Calgary Home Inspectors, we understand that a condo is just as significant an investment as a single-family home, and our comprehensive inspections reflect that.

A condo inspection in Calgary is just as valuable as a home inspection.

Why Should You Get a Condominium Inspection?

1. Uncover Hidden Issues:
Picture this: You move in and discover mold growing in an unseen corner of your closet. A thorough condominium inspection can reveal such hidden issues, saving you from unexpected repair costs.

2. Ensure Safety and Compliance:
Imagine the shock of discovering faulty wiring that poses a fire hazard after you’ve settled in. Like home inspections, condo inspections check for compliance with safety standards, ensuring your home is safe for you and your family.

3.Negotiate with Confidence:
Armed with a detailed inspection report, you can negotiate better terms with the seller. Whether it’s asking for repairs or a price reduction, having the facts on your side empowers you in the buying process.

4. Prevent Future Costs:
Think about finding out that the plumbing system has significant leaks after moving in. A condo inspection identifies such issues upfront, allowing you to budget for future expenses or request replacements before closing the deal.

5. Peace of Mind:
Moving is stressful enough without the added worry of potential problems lurking in your new home. A completed condo inspection means you can comfortably focus on the excitement of your new space rather than potential pitfalls.

An expert inspector meticulously examines every aspect of the condo, from structural components to electrical systems, plumbing, and more. By choosing to conduct a condo inspection, you gain valuable insights into the true condition of the property, making your investment secure and sound.

What Will an Inspector Assess in a Condominium?

An inspection of condos is essential to ensure the unit’s safety, functionality, and overall condition before making a purchase. Since the condominium association typically maintains common areas, roofs, and exteriors, condo inspections in Calgary typically concentrate on the interior aspects of the unit. Here’s an overview of what a standard inspection of the apartment space includes:

The Safety Features of a Condo

Critical safety devices like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are inspected to ensure they are present and functioning correctly. If applicable, sprinkler systems are also noted.

Plumbing in a Condo

Plumbing inspections include checking pipes and drains for leaks, proper drainage, and signs of corrosion. Fixtures such as sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs are inspected for proper operation and potential leaks. If the unit has its own water heater, it will also be assessed.

A Condo’s Electrical Systems

The electrical inspection covers the unit’s wiring, outlets, switches, and the electrical panel. Inspectors ensure that everything is up to code, free of hazards, and functioning correctly.

Structural Components of a Condo

Inspectors examine the walls, ceilings, and floors for signs of water damage, cracks, mold, and other potential issues. This assessment helps identify any underlying structural problems within the unit.

The Condo Unit’s HVAC

Heating and cooling units within the unit are evaluated for condition and efficiency. Inspectors also check the functionality of the thermostat to ensure it operates correctly.

Interior Unit Features

Doors and windows are checked for proper operation, signs of damage, and potential security issues. Built-in appliances are inspected for safety and proper operation, ensuring they meet necessary standards.

Inspectors assess the overall condition of paint, finishes, and ventilation throughout the unit, ensuring that areas like the kitchen and bathrooms have proper ventilation. Special attention is given to any areas subject to recent renovations.

Understanding what a condo inspection covers can help you make an informed decision and address potential issues before finalizing your purchase. A thorough inspection provides peace of mind, knowing that the unit meets safety and quality standards, and helps you avoid unexpected repair costs down the line.

A wood frame Condo in Calgary under construction; drone photo taken by a Calgary Home Inspector.

A concrete built Calgary Condo under construction; drone photo by a Calgary Home Inspector.

A Calgary Condo nearing completion; almost ready for pre-possession condo inspection.

Condo Inspection Vs. Home Inspection Comparison

When deciding between a condo or a single-family home, it’s essential to understand that many critical systems and components inspected in a home are also present in a condo. For instance, both property types require thorough inspections of electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC units, and interior structural components like walls, ceilings, and floors. While a home inspection includes the exterior, roof, and landscaping, a condo inspection focuses on the interior of the unit, as the condo association typically maintains common areas and exteriors.

One key difference is who is responsible for maintenance and repairs. In a single-family home, the homeowner is responsible for all areas of the property, both inside and out. In a condo, while the association handles the upkeep of shared areas and exteriors, the unit owner is solely responsible for the interior. This means that any issues within the unit, such as faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, or HVAC inefficiencies, fall on the homeowner to address.

Skipping the inspection of your condo unit can lead to overlooking critical issues that might result in costly repairs and safety hazards. For example, a water leak in your unit’s plumbing can not only cause damage to your property but also potentially affect neighbouring units. As the owner, you could be held liable for the resulting damage to other units. Therefore, a comprehensive inspection is crucial to identify and rectify such issues before they escalate, ensuring thoughtful decision making about your investment.

Avoid Issues When Buying With This DIY Condo Inspection Checklist

Buying a condo is a significant investment, and it’s crucial to ensure you’re making an informed decision. Here’s a checklist to help you and your real estate agent avoid potential issues:

1. Review the Condo Association's Documents

Rules and Regulations: Understand the community rules to ensure they align with your lifestyle.
Financial Health: Check the association’s budget, reserves, and any upcoming assessments or fee increases.

2. Inspect the Unit Thoroughly

Overall Unit Integrity: Look for signs of water damage, mold, cracks in walls, and uneven floors.
Electrical and Plumbing Systems: Ensure all visible outlets, fixtures, and plumbing are in good condition.
HVAC Systems: Be mindful of the heating or cooling systems and how the temperature feels to you while inside the unit.

3. Assess Common Areas

As they are not part of a condo inspection, visit common areas to gauge their condition and maintenance. Poorly maintained shared spaces can indicate broader management issues.

4. Evaluate Safety Features

Ensure smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are present. Consider the ease of fire escape in an emergency situation.

5. Understand Maintenance Responsibilities

Clarify which areas the condo association maintains and what you are responsible for. This helps in budgeting for future maintenance costs.

6. Check for Noise Levels

Visit the unit at different times of the day to assess noise from neighbours and common spaces, ensuring it meets your comfort levels.

7. Investigate the Neighbourhood

Research the surrounding area for amenities, safety, and potential future developments that could impact your living experience.

8. Consult with a Professional Inspector

Hire a qualified condo inspector to conduct a comprehensive inspection, providing a detailed report on the unit’s condition.

By following this checklist, you can identify potential issues early, negotiate better terms, and ensure your new condo meets your expectations and needs. This proactive approach helps protect your investment and provides clarity during the buying process.

A drone image of a condominium in Calgary; following the completion of a condo inspection by. a local home inspector.

How Much Does a Condo Inspection Cost in Calgary?

The cost of a condo inspection on average is $325 compared to the average cost of a home inspection being closer to $500. This is one of the appealing aspects of a condo inspection – its more affordable than a home inspection. Since the focus is on the interior of the unit and excludes exterior features and common areas managed by the condo association, it costs less.

Despite the lower price, inspecting a condo examines all critical areas to ensure your new space is safe, functional, and free from hidden issues. This small investment can save you from significant repair costs and safety hazards later on.

A Condo Inspection You Can Trust

Choosing the right inspection service is necessary for ensuring your new home is safe, functional, and free from hidden issues. We pride ourselves on providing thorough, reliable, and detailed inspections. Our experience guarantees a meticulous examination of every critical aspect of your unit, empowering you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.

We understand the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with owning a condo. Our inspections focus on identifying potential problems before they become costly repairs or safety hazards. With our comprehensive inspection report, you can confidently address any issues with the seller and negotiate better terms.

Investing in an inspection as part of your condo purchase is a smart, cost-effective step to protect your investment and gain peace of mind. Don’t leave your future residence to chance.

Schedule Your Inspection Today!

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!