In British Columbia’s competitive real estate market, condominiums and townhouses offer an increasingly popular way to get a foothold in homeownership—especially in areas like Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and Victoria. Many buyers assume that because these properties fall under a strata corporation, a professional home inspection isn’t necessary.
But this assumption can cost you—sometimes dearly.
The Strata Covers the Building, Not Your Unit
In B.C., strata corporations are responsible for the maintenance and repair of common property: the building envelope, roof, shared plumbing lines, and common amenities. But inside your unit? That’s your responsibility—and it’s where many of the most expensive problems can lurk.
Professional inspectors often find issues such as water leaks, outdated or improperly installed electrical systems, poor renovations by previous owners, and failing appliances—all of which fall on you, not the strata, to fix.
B.C. Builds Have Their Quirks
Condo and townhouse construction in B.C. has its own set of risks. For example, many older buildings (particularly those built between the 1980s and early 2000s) are susceptible to the “leaky condo crisis” due to poorly designed building envelopes and inadequate rain screening. Even newer buildings can have cutting corners or code violations that aren’t visible during a walk-through.
A qualified inspector will look for signs of past water damage, improper moisture barriers, mold, and ventilation issues—problems that are common in B.C.’s damp coastal climate.
New Build? Still Get an Inspection
Pre-sale condos and townhouses may come with a 2-5-10 warranty under the Homeowner Protection Act, but that doesn’t guarantee perfection. In fact, new construction is notorious for deficiencies—missing caulking, poor drainage, malfunctioning systems, or safety issues. A pre-delivery inspection before you take possession can catch these items while they’re still the builder’s responsibility to fix.
Strata Documents Don’t Replace an Inspection
Yes, you should absolutely review the strata documents—minutes, depreciation report, and financials—but these won’t tell you if the previous owner installed a bathroom fan that vents into the attic, or if there’s a slow leak under the kitchen sink. These are things only a physical inspection can catch.
Final Word: Protect Your Investment
In B.C., buying into a strata property still means buying into responsibility. Whether it’s a condo in downtown Vancouver or a townhouse in Abbotsford, a home inspection gives you clarity, negotiating power, and peace of mind. The few hundred dollars you invest today could save you thousands tomorrow—and help you avoid buying someone else’s problems.
In British Columbia’s complex housing market, a home inspection for a condo or townhouse isn’t optional—it’s essential.