Key points
- Trace moisture, do not guess its source.
- Match symptoms to ownership and repair responsibility.
- Ask for records when problems appear recurring.
Water and moisture
Watch for staining at windows, balcony doors, ceilings, baseboards and plumbing cabinets. A stain may reflect a past event, an active unit leak or water entering from common property. An inspector can document what is visible and may recommend moisture testing or specialist investigation.
Ask for repair invoices and corporation records when the story involves another unit, roof, exterior wall or shared pipe. Determine whether the problem recurred after a prior repair.
Ventilation and comfort
Poor bathroom or kitchen exhaust, condensation, uneven temperatures and noisy fan coils can affect comfort and moisture control. The system may depend on building-wide equipment or a maintenance schedule. Check whether filters, controls, vents and access panels are in good condition and whether the corporation has relevant service records.
A comfortable unit on one mild day does not prove year-round performance. If the issue is seasonal, ask the seller for utility and service history.
Electrical, plumbing and alterations
Non-working outlets, missing safety devices, slow drains, leaks and signs of unpermitted alterations can require follow-up. Cosmetic renovations can conceal older plumbing or electrical work. Ask what was changed, who approved it and whether permits were required.
Large-ticket issues may lie outside the unit: parkade membranes, elevators, envelopes and roofs. A unit inspection can raise questions, while minutes, reserve studies and specialist reports supply the broader picture.
Discuss the actual unit, not just the checklist.
A written inspection scope and property-specific report are the next step when you are making a Calgary condo decision. Meet Chris Tritter, our RealPartners-recommended inspection partner, and ask what he can assess for your unit.
Common questions
Is every inspection finding a reason to walk away?
No. Assess severity, cause, repair responsibility, cost, timing and whether the finding is already disclosed and funded.
Sources and further reading
Primary references for legal and financial background. Inspection scope and provider services should always be confirmed for the specific property.