The real estate market is currently booming. Since buying an already occupied condo has become a real problem, explore the new condo market.
What precautions should you take to protect yourself in case of a problem?
Check if the condominium is covered by the Régie du Bâtiment du Québec guarantee
The Régie du Bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) has the guarantee plan for new residential buildings. This warranty covers, among other things, hidden defects (or problems) that are discovered and reported within three years of receiving your condo. Total coverage lasts up to five years after you receive your condominium. In principle, you must report defects within a reasonable period of time.
You are automatically and legally protected by the RBQ’s New Residential Guarantee Scheme if the contractor you choose has a general contractor license.
Check if the contractor is accredited
Before buying or building a new condo, make sure the contractor you plan to do business with has a general contractor license.
To check if your contractor holds a prime contractor license, consult the Register of License Holders.
Informative Text – This text does not constitute legal advice; it is recommended to consult a lawyer or notary for such advice. Éducaloi is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inform Quebec residents, in clear language, about their rights and responsibilities.
Have your condo inspected before you receive it
In order to benefit from the New Residential Guarantee Plan, two inspections must be carried out, one inspection for each part of the condominium:
- The private part, ie the condominium that is yours and where you can do whatever you want (renovations and others), as long as you respect the rules of co-ownership.
- The common areas such as the entrance to the house, the corridors or the common living room that you share with the other co-owners.
Each inspection is based on a list of items to be checked provided by the administrator of the RBQ.
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