What a Good Inspector Covers During a Condo Inspection

From TARION PDIs to resale units — here’s what actually matters.

Condo inspections are often underestimated. Many buyers assume “there’s not much to inspect,” especially in a new build. But whether it’s a brand-new unit or a 20-year-old resale, a proper condo inspection protects buyers from hidden problems, unexpected costs, and missing information about how the unit actually works.

A quality inspector knows how Toronto condos are built, how they age, and what gets missed — even during builder walkthroughs.

1. Pre-Delivery Inspections (PDI): New Builds & First Occupancy

A PDI is your opportunity to document deficiencies to TARION standards before you take possession. Builders expect most buyers to miss things. A trained eye doesn’t.

A thorough PDI inspection includes:

✔ TARION-approved defect documentation

Anything damaged, incomplete, missing, or not operating properly must be recorded correctly for warranty coverage.

✔ Testing all fixtures and appliances

• Stove, oven, dishwasher

• Washer/dryer

• Vent fans

• Exhaust hoods

• Faucets & drains

• Toilet operation

• Air conditioning / heating (where possible)

✔ Doors, windows & finishes

Misaligned doors, sticking sliders, air leaks, damaged trim, drywall cracks, flooring gaps.

✔ Electrical safety

• GFCI testing

• Switched receptacles

• AFCI breakers

• Light fixtures & switches

• Panel labeling accuracy

✔ HVAC education

Most owners don’t know how their system works. I show clients:

• Filter location, size, and replacement frequency

• How to operate the thermostat properly

• What maintenance falls under warranty vs. the condo corporation
  
  

A proper PDI isn’t just a walkthrough — it’s your protection for the first year of ownership.

2. Resale / Second-Owner Condo Inspections

Resale inspections focus less on cosmetics and more on the unit’s systems, lifespan, and any wear, damage, or aging components. A high-quality resale inspection is based on the CAHPI Standard of Practice and covers:

✔ Water Shut-Off Valves (and whether they actually work)

Main unit shut-off, toilet shut-offs, dishwasher and washing machine valves.
Water damage risk in condos is huge — knowing locations (and operability) matters.

✔ HVAC System (Fan Coil / Heat Pump)

Your inspector should assess:

• Filter condition & airflow

• Fan coil cleanliness

• Drain pan issues

• Leaks, mold, or rust

• Approximate system age

• Thermostat operation

• Noise/vibration concerns

✔ Dryer & Laundry Venting

Critical for fire safety. Checked for:

• Clogged filters

• Restricted airflow

• Lint accumulation

• Washer hose condition

• Proper vent operation

✔ Electrical Systems & Receptacles

Includes:

• GFCIs

• Switched outlets (very common in condos)

• AFCI breakers

• Warm/loose receptacles

• Panel issues

• Proper island/kitchen counter GFCI placement

✔ Doors, Windows & Balcony Components

• Seal failures

• Drafts

• Sticky sliders

• Balcony safety issues (visible components only)

✔ Ventilation & Air Quality

Condos often struggle with humidity and air movement. I check:

• Bathroom fan suction

• Range hood performance

• Moisture staining

• Airflow balance

✔ Appliances

Each appliance is tested for general function, leaks, temperature issues, and noise.

3. The Difference Between a Good Condo Inspection and a Quick Walkthrough

Some inspectors do a superficial loop around the unit. A good inspector:

• Tests every visible outlet, switch, valve, and fixture

• Explains how the unit works and how to maintain it

• Documents issues clearly and calmly

• Uses thermal imaging to spot hidden moisture or insulation gaps

• Clarifies what’s the owner’s responsibility vs. the condo corporation’s
  
  

A condo may be smaller than a house, but the systems matter just as much.

4. Why Realtors Recommend Condo Inspections

A proper inspection protects deals — it doesn’t jeopardize them.
Realtors value condo inspections because they:

• Reduce surprises during negotiation

• Provide clarity for buyers

• Help sellers prepare for listing

• Identify safety issues early

• Build confidence in the transaction

It’s about informed decisions, not alarmism.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re completing a Tarion PDI on a new unit or doing a thorough inspection on a resale condo, the goal is the same: make sure the buyer understands the condition of the unit and how to maintain it.

A condo inspection is one of the simplest, smartest investments a buyer can make — and one of the most appreciated services a Realtor can recommend.

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