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Extending the lifespan of a building in Quebec: clear strategies to avoid unexpected costs
TL;DR - Key takeaways A building’s lifespan depends less on its age than on the quality of its planning. Hidden anomalies accelerate deterioration and drive long-term costs. A reserve fund study based on the actual condition helps prevent special assessments. The...
Why do new constructions increasingly contain hidden defects?
Key takeaways Hidden defects in recent buildings mainly result from fast-paced execution, insufficient quality control, and fragmented construction teams. These concealed issues directly threaten the value of condominiums and create unexpected funding needs. A...
Why 5% in Contributions Is No Longer Enough: The False Sense of Security in Reserve Funds
Key Takeaways The long-used rule of contributing 5% of the annual operating budget to the reserve fund no longer reflects current conditions. It doesn’t consider inflation, unexpected repairs, or the real state of building components. The result often includes special...
What Banks and Insurance Companies Now Expect from a Building Inspection Report
Key Takeaways Banks and insurance companies now require detailed engineer reports, not just visual inspections. They expect: a clear assessment of the building’s condition, a structural diagnosis signed by an engineer, and a 10 to 25 year budget forecast. Reasons:...
Bulging Walls, Cracks, and Loose Bricks: Visual Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore in Your Building
Key Takeaways Bulges, cracks, or bricks that detach are serious warning signs, not just aesthetic flaws. These issues can indicate structural risks or advanced deterioration. In Quebec, Bill 122 requires an inspection every 5 years for buildings with 5 or more...
Quebec’s Bill 16: new rules for condos starting August 14, 2025
It’s official. As of July 30, 2025, the Quebec government confirmed the effective date for Bill 16. Starting August 14, 2025, all divided co-ownerships (condos) in the province must comply with new legal standards under Decree 991-2025. “This regulation comes into...
Commercial vs residential building inspection: what are the key differences?
What you should take away from this comparison Inspecting a commercial building is not the same as inspecting a residential one. Commercial properties involve more complex systems and higher risks. Key differences include: Flat roofs, reinforced foundations, heavy...
Choosing a structural engineer in Montreal: guide 2025
In 2024, Montreal saw a 19% increase in new residential construction with 16,400 units built. The market is clearly active, but like buying a car without knowing maintenance costs, building or renovating without understanding the challenges can quickly get...
Your complete guide to condo fees in Quebec
Buying a condo without understanding how condo fees work is like buying a car without asking about maintenance. It’s not the purchase price that hurts, it’s everything that follows if you didn’t do your homework.Key takeaways from this condo fees guide Condo fees...