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Categories Inspection, Home Purchase, Home Sale, Legal

The Egress Standard: What You Need to Know Before Creating a Basement Bedroom

puit fenêtre norme egress inspec-thor

Creating a bedroom in the basement is a popular project among our clients — and it’s an excellent way to gain additional living space. However, before getting started, there is one essential standard to be aware of: the Egress Standard. It directly relates to your family’s safety in the event of an emergency, which is why we always discuss it when this type of project is being considered. 

What You Need to Know

The Egress Standard applies to emergency exits in the event of a fire. It applies to all bedrooms (including those located in the basement) and requires that at least one window or door provide direct access to the exterior.

The standard does not apply if the room is equipped with a sprinkler system or if it has a door providing direct access to the exterior.

Requirements to Meet

Each bedroom must have at least one emergency exit window or door that:

  • opens from the inside without a key, tools, or special knowledge;
  • provides a clear opening that meets the minimum required dimensions;
  • is easily accessible.

The opening mechanism and its operation must not hinder evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Opening Dimensions

The window opening must meet the following requirements, without removing the sashes:

  • No dimension (width or height) may be less than 15 in. (38 cm).
  • The clear opening area must be at least 543 sq. in. (3,500 cm²).
  • The opening must maintain the required clear space in an open position during an emergency, without additional support.

Note: To make calculations and understanding easier, we have standardized the units of measurement by converting feet to inches, and meters and millimeters to centimeters.

Installation Height

It is recommended that the window not be installed more than 150 cm (4 ft. 11 in.) above the floor.

If the window is installed higher, a piece of furniture securely fastened to the wall must be provided to facilitate evacuation (e.g., for a child).

Window Wells or Light Wells

  • Ensure a clearance of at least 30 in. (76 cm) in front of the window.
  • The opening mechanism or the use of the sash must not reduce this clearance.
  • If a cover or enclosure is installed over the window well, it must be able to be opened from the inside without a key, tools, or special knowledge.

How to Verify Your Window’s Compliance

  1. Measure the width and height of the clear opening, free of any obstructions (not the window frame).
  2. Multiply the height by the width.
  3. The result obtained represents the opening area; it must be equal to or greater than 543 sq. in. (3,500 cm²), and each dimension must be at least 15 in. (38 cm).

Dimension Examples

Practical Information

  • Your municipality may have stricter requirements than the National Building Code. Check with your municipality before undertaking any work.
  • In the case of new construction, basement windows are not necessarily required to comply with the Egress Standard if no bedroom is included in the plans. Inform your architect if you plan to create a bedroom in the basement in the future.
  • A home equipped with windows that comply with the Egress Standard may have a higher resale value.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this document is intended as general guidance only. Please consult the person responsible for issuing your construction or renovation permit.

Source : Quebec Construction Code 2015 — Chapter I, Building, Section 9.9.10
Sortie d’évacuation de chambres. Hauteur d’installation recommandée : Note A-9.9.10.1.

Do you have questions about your specific situation? Feel free to discuss them with us during your next inspection.

Categories Real Estate Investors, Inspection

Building Inspection: A Strategic Pillar of Real Estate Decision-Making

By Frédéric Grefford, President of Inspec-Thor

In the real estate industry, building inspections are still too often overlooked, both by first-time buyers and seasoned investors. Yet their role is critical: they directly influence risk assessment, project profitability, and the quality of decisions made during a transaction.

Inspection as a Decision-Making Analysis Tool

A pre-purchase home inspection primarily provides an independent and factual assessment of a building’s condition at the time a decision must be made. It does not eliminate unforeseen issues, but it significantly helps reduce their impact by providing buyers with the information they need to make informed decisions.

It helps anticipate required work, adjust an acquisition strategy, and prevent unexpected expenses. Even for experienced investors, it remains an essential step to validate assumptions and secure a project.

Hidden Issues That Aren’t Always Apparent

In the field, several significant issues are not immediately visible to the naked eye, including:

  • Water infiltration issues (roofs, foundations, openings);
  • Structural defects (settlement, progressive cracks);
  • Systems that have reached the end of their useful life (heating, plumbing);
  • Various inadequate or non-compliant installations.

In the rental property sector, deferred maintenance is a common reality: temporary repairs, inadequate ventilation, and unsuitable or incompatible material choices. Without early detection, these issues can lead to significant costs and compromise the long-term durability of the building.

Some interventions can be anticipated and incorporated into a budget. Others, however, have a direct impact on a property’s value and can become major expenses — such as foundation issues, excessive moisture, or installations that do not comply with applicable standards.

The Inspection Report as a Negotiation Tool

Once the report has been reviewed, several options are available to the investor: move forward with the purchase, renegotiate the price, adjust certain conditions, request corrective measures, or withdraw from the transaction.

The report then becomes a true negotiation tool, based on concrete findings rather than perceptions. It allows investors to assess risks, quantify potential costs, and make decisions aligned with their financial objectives.

Choosing the Inspection Firm: An Important Decision

In this context, selecting the inspection firm is of critical importance.
Les Services Inspec-Thor inc. stand out through a methodical and structured approach focused on technical rigor and the clarity of the information provided.
The team relies on:

  • A standardized methodology;
  • A continuing education program;
  • In-depth expertise in existing buildings;
  • A thorough understanding of recurring building issues observed in the field.

The added value of a building inspector lies in their ability to transform technical observations into actionable data, without ambiguity or unnecessary interpretation. This approach provides investors, whether beginners or experienced professionals, with a reliable analysis framework to guide their decisions.

Understanding to Make Better Decisions

Whether it is a first purchase or an established real estate portfolio, the objective remains the same: understand the building’s actual condition, assess risks, and make an informed decision.

In a market where every detail can make a difference, a building inspection is not an incidental expense, but rather a strategic investment!

Categories Portrait, Inspection, Heritage Homes, Home Purchase, Home Sale

Nathalie Grondin: A Home Inspector Like No Other

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In a real estate market where decisions are made quickly and under pressure, some professionals clearly stand out. Nathalie Grondin, a home inspector with Inspec Thor, is one of them — and she doesn’t go unnoticed.

Her background, her approach to inspections, and the human connection she builds with her clients set her apart from more rigid or mechanical approaches.

With Nathalie, inspecting a home isn’t just about analyzing a building — it’s about understanding what it represents for the people who dream of living in it.

An Unconventional Path Shaping a Unique Approach

Before becoming a home inspector, Nathalie had a very different career. After several years working in a factory, she decided at 45 to give herself a fresh start: going back to school and transitioning into building inspection. It was a bold, thoughtful move — and a successful one, as she graduated top of her class.

“At one point, I needed a new challenge. I wanted to do something for myself,”she says simply.

This return to school and career shift are far from insignificant: they largely explain her rigor, her constant curiosity, and her ongoing desire to learn.

“ In inspection, continuous learning is part of the job. It’s essential to stay up to date with standards and practices, ” she explains. “The day you think you know everything is when it becomes risky.”

A Deeply Human Inspector

From the moment you speak with Nathalie, her genuine human side is immediately apparent. She never forgets where she comes from — and it shows in every inspection she conducts.

She works primarily with first-time buyers — often young, sometimes nervous, almost always emotional when facing such a major purchase. Nathalie takes the time to simplify, explain, and reassure… without ever sugarcoating reality.

“I’m not here to discourage people, but to make sure they know exactly what they’re getting into,” she says.

Her approach is nuanced: she distinguishes what is urgent from what can wait, what is critical from what falls under normal maintenance. It’s a way of working that clients deeply appreciate, as they feel heard, respected — and equipped to make informed decisions.

Telling It Like It Is… With Humanity

Nathalie is not a complacent inspector. If there’s a major issue, she will say so. If a property represents too great a risk for a buyer, she won’t hesitate to state it clearly.

“If my mouth doesn’t say it, my face will,” she jokes, true to her well-known straightforwardness.

Far from working against her, this honesty strengthens her credibility. Real estate brokers and buyers alike know that she works with integrity, independence, and rigor.

Nathalie Grondin, une inspectrice rigoureuse avec un franc parler et beaucoup d’humour.

An Inspection That Reflects Real Life

On site, Nathalie looks at everything. Crawl spaces, attics, hard-to-reach corners — nothing is overlooked. And when her work creates dust or debris — especially when opening an attic hatch — she cleans up before leaving, out of respect for everyone involved.

Her colorful expressions, well-timed humor, and ability to ease tension often turn inspections into a lighter moment — without ever diminishing their importance.

“An inspection is stressful. If I can help people relax a little, I’ve already done part of my job.”

Nathalie Grondin, a home inspector, in the midst of an inspection.

Always There, Even After the Inspection

For Nathalie, the work doesn’t stop when the inspection report is delivered. She remains available afterward to answer questions, reassure, or explain further if needed.

A simple philosophy guides her work: “If a client calls you, you answer. Otherwise, they’ll go looking for answers everywhere — except the right place.”

This availability, combined with her experience and her network at Inspec Thor, contributes to the lasting trust she builds with her clients.

An Inspection That Makes All the Difference

Choosing Nathalie Grondin as your home inspector means choosing a professional who is committed, human, passionate, and deeply grounded in her clients’ reality.

In a complex real estate market, she doesn’t sell illusions — she provides clarity. And that’s exactly what makes all the difference.

Pour prendre rendez-vous avec Nathalie Grondin, contactez-nous !

Categories Inspection, Home Purchase, Home Sale

The 7 Mistakes to Avoid Before Buying or Selling a Home in Quebec This Spring

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Spring is here… and with it comes the busiest season of Quebec’s real estate market!

Properties are selling quickly, viewings are happening one after another, and decisions sometimes have to be made within hours.

But beware: behind a dream home may lie a very different reality.

Every week, in the field, we continue to see the same mistakes — among buyers, sellers, and even some real estate brokers. Here are the 7 most common pitfalls in 2026and, most importantly, how to avoid them.

Relying Solely on Appearance

A property may appear flawless at first glance: fresh paint, modern décor, and bright, inviting rooms.

However, several significant issues may be invisible to the untrained eye:

  • Hidden water infiltration
  • Insufficient insulation
  • Structural issues

A pre-purchase home inspection allows buyers to look beyond appearances and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Ignoring the Effects of Spring Thaw

Spring is a critical period for buildings. Snowmelt and heavy rainfall put the following to the test:

  • Site drainage
  • The condition of the foundations
  • Water drainage systems

Water accumulation around the home can indicate a serious issue. This is the ideal time to detect signs of water infiltration or inadequate drainage.

Buying Too Quickly Under Pressure

Despite a changing market, some properties still attract multiple offers.

Result:

  • Rushed decisions
  • Neglected or rushed inspections
  • Increased financial risks

Even in a competitive market, a pre-purchase home inspection remains essential to secure the transaction.

Underestimating “Minor Defects”

A crack here, inadequate ventilation there… Many buyers underestimate these issues.

However, these “details” can be signs of more significant issues:

  • Structural movement
  • Excessive moisture
  • Premature deterioration of certain materials

A thorough assessment makes it possible to distinguish minor issues from major ones.

Neglecting Essential Systems

Some of the most expensive components of a home are also the least visible:

  • Electricity
  • Plumbing
  • Heating system

An outdated or poorly maintained system can lead to major repairs in the short term. A comprehensive property condition assessment helps better anticipate these costs.

Failing to Properly Understand the Inspection Report

A pre-purchase inspection report can seem complex to understand for many buyers.

At Inspec-Thor, our inspectors do more than simply provide an inspection report. They explain findings, simplify technical information, and guide buyers in prioritizing interventions, assessing costs, and making informed decisions.

Failing to Use the Inspection Report as a Negotiation Tool

A pre-purchase inspection is not only intended to “validate” a property.

It can become a strategic tool to:

  • Request repairs or corrective actions
  • Plan future renovations and repairs

Need Professional Guidance?

Whether you are a buyer, seller, or real estate broker, Inspec-Thor provides residential inspection services to help you avoid unpleasant surprises and move forward with confidence.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our inspectors, available 7 days a week throughout Quebec!

 

Categories Cleaning and Maintenance, Inspection

Spring Thaw: What Your Home Is Hiding from You After Winter

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Every year, the month of March marks a turning point for homeowners in Quebec. Temperatures begin to rise, snow gradually melts, and the ground thaws. It’s often at this time that the first signs of wear or damage appear on a property. To prevent small problems from becoming costly, here are the key elements to watch for this season.

1. Check the Condition of Your Roof

The roof undergoes a lot of stress during the winter due to snow and ice. Even though roofs are designed to withstand winter loads, this combination can weaken certain structures.

Signs to Watch For:

  • Loose or Damaged Shingles;
  • Leak Marks in the Attic;
  • Water Stains on the Ceiling or Walls.

2. Check the Foundation for New Cracks

During the winter, the ground freezes and expands. In the spring, as the ice melts, the soil contracts, which can put pressure on the foundations, causing new cracks or worsening existing ones.

Signs to Watch For: :

  • New Cracks in the Concrete Foundation;
  • Cracks That Are Getting Bigger Over Time;
  • Water Infiltration Near a Crack;
  • Moisture Marks Along the Bottom of Basement Walls;
  • Standing Water Near the House.

If you see any of these signs, it’s best to contact a professional before the problem gets worse.

3. Make Sure Your Home’s Drainage Is Working Properly

Good drainage protects your foundation. During the spring thaw, water needs to drain away from the house efficiently.

hings to Inspect:

  • The yard should slope gently away from the house to ensure proper water runoff;
  • Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of debris;
  • Ensure the foundation drain is working properly and unobstructed.

Besides inspecting the roof, attic, foundation, and drainage, make sure to check doors, windows, and the exterior siding. Doing so can often catch issues early, before they escalate.

Why a Professional Inspection in Spring Matters

Spring is the perfect time to check your home’s overall condition, particularly if you notice anything unusual.

At Inspec-Thor, we understand that every home is unique. A professional inspection gives you a clear picture of your home’s condition and helps you make smart decisions to safeguard your investment.

Book an appointment at 1-866-617-8467 or through our online form.

Categories Cleaning and Maintenance, Inspection, Uncategorized

Why February Is a Strategic Time to Plan Your Spring Projects

February is often seen as a waiting period, when projects seem to be on hold. Yet when it comes to residential maintenance and renovations, it’s actually an ideal time to assess the condition of your building and plan upcoming work. After months of exposure to cold temperatures, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles, various weaknesses can become apparent, making February a particularly suitable time for a property condition assessment.

Home Inspection: Much More Than a Transaction Tool

Property inspections are often associated with buying or selling a home. However, a property condition assessment allows homeowners to:

  • Anticipate repairs;
  • Plan budgets;
  • Prioritize upcoming work;
  • Reduce the risk of costly repairs.

“It’s a proactive, smart, and cost-effective approach,” says Frederic Greffordbuilding inspector and President of Inspec-Thor. He emphasizes that, “The assessment makes it possible to distinguish what falls under normal wear and tear… and what requires intervention.”

Indeed, after several months of exposure to winter conditions, certain issues become more apparent, such as:

  • Developing foundation cracks;
  • Basement water infiltration;
  • Localized settlement;
  • Inadequate ventilation;
  • Excessive condensation;
  • Etc.

Planning Ahead for Renovation Season

In Quebec, spring marks the start of a period of high demand for construction contractors, roofers, foundation specialists, and excavation professionals.

Having an inspection report in hand as early as February makes it possible to book the right contractors, obtain multiple quotes, and avoid rushed — and costly — decisions.

Why Hire a Certified and Qualified Inspector

“An effective inspection is based on practical standards, an in-depth understanding of Quebec buildings, and the ability to clearly explain the issues and priorities in a detailed yet easy-to-understand report,” adds Frederic Grefford, the building inspector.

In short, a good inspector doesn’t simply point out problems — they help homeowners understand, prioritize, and plan.

A property condition assessment carried out at the right time can make all the difference between well-managed projects… and costly emergency repairs.

Need our services? Contact us to book an appointment through our online form: www.inspec-thor.com or by phone at 1-866-617-8467.

Categories Cleaning and Maintenance, Inspection, Home Purchase

Buying a Home in Winter in Quebec: Understanding Inspections in Cold Weather

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Buying a home in the middle of winter may seem counterintuitive. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice often make buyers hesitant, leading many to wait until spring. Yet winter is far from a bad time to have a building inspection—quite the opposite. In many cases, it is actually a strategic moment to identify certain issues that may remain hidden during milder seasons.

“You can’t see anything in winter”: a perception worth reconsidering

It is true that some components, such as a roof covered in snow or frozen ground, cannot be inspected as thoroughly as they would be in summer. However, a qualified inspector is able to adapt the inspection to winter conditions. The lack of direct visibility is offset by the analysis of indirect indicators, the use of specialized tools, and an overall assessment of how the building behaves.

What winter reveals better than any other season

Winter puts buildings to the test. Temperature fluctuations, constant heating, and indoor humidity can expose several issues, including:

  • Cold air infiltration around doors, windows, and junctions;
  • Insufficient insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics;
  • Excessive condensation on windows, sometimes indicating a ventilation problem;
  • Poor performance of heating systems;
  • Thermal bridging and energy loss.

These issues are often much more difficult to detect during the summer months.

Ventilation and humidity: major concerns

In winter, homes are closed up tightly, making it the ideal time to assess ventilation quality.

Excessive indoor humidity can encourage mold growth or lead to chronic condensation problems—not to mention potential material deterioration.

“In winter, our building inspectors pay close attention to the air exchanger, kitchens and bathrooms, signs of moisture in the basement, and persistent odors, among other things,” explains building inspector Frédéric Grefford.

What happens when certain components cannot be inspected?

Mr. Grefford notes that a competent inspector will clearly explain in the report any limitations related to winter conditions. These may include an inaccessible roof, a French drain that cannot be observed, or frozen ground preventing certain exterior inspections.

“These limitations are not weaknesses, but documented elements. Recommendations can be made for follow-up inspections if needed.”

Winter inspections require expertise, judgment, and thoroughness, concludes Frédéric Grefford, adding: “A clear, detailed, and well-explained report—like the ones we produce at Inspec-Thor—allows buyers to make informed decisions, even when certain components are not visible.”

Need our services? Contact us to schedule an appointment using our online form at www.inspec-thor.com or by phone at 1-866-617-8467. www.inspec-thor.com or by phone at 1-866-617-8467.

Categories Tips and Tricks, Cleaning and Maintenance

A Cozy Winter Ahead: 9 Gentle Tips to Prepare Your Home for the Cold Season

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In November, frost, rain, and shifting temperatures serve as a gentle reminder that winter is on its way. It’s also the perfect moment to give your home a little care before the cold fully settles in. Year after year, Inspec-Thor inspectors notice the same small maintenance oversights — all simple to fix. Here are 9 easy tips to help you prepare your home smoothly and avoid unpleasant surprises this winter.

1. Check and Replace Exterior Caulking

Exterior caulking around windows and doors cracks or peels over time. In November, it’s often one of the first weak points to show.

Tip: Remove old caulking and apply a high-quality exterior sealant before the deep freeze sets in.

2. Inspect Attic Insulation

The attic accounts for a significant portion of heat loss. Insulation that is too thin, unevenly distributed, or showing signs of moisture can also contribute to ice buildup on the roof.

Tip: Check insulation depth, fix any compressed areas, and ensure soffit vents are clear for proper ventilation.

3. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Poor ventilation can lead to condensation and mold. Blocked or improperly connected bathroom and kitchen exhaust ducts are frequent culprits.

Tip: Clean vent covers and make sure all fans exhaust outside — never into the attic.

4. Clean the Gutters (if you haven’t already!)

Fallen leaves clog gutters in the fall, causing overflows and ice buildup.

Tip: Clean them before snow and ice accumulate. Check the slope, and add a downspout extension to direct water away from the house — ensuring it doesn’t drain onto the street or a neighbor’s property.

5. Inspect the Roof Condition

Inspectors often find missing, lifted, or worn shingles — all important vulnerabilities before winter.

Tip: Do a visual roof check or call a professional to address issues before permanent snow arrives.

6. Clean the Dryer Vent

A clogged dryer vent increases indoor humidity and fire risk.

Tip: Remove and clean the vent, check the exterior flap, and choose a rigid metal duct rather than flexible plastic.

7. Maintain Your Heating System (and Wood Stove if applicable)

As winter approaches, lack of maintenance reduces heating efficiency and increases risks associated with combustion appliances.

Tip: Schedule annual professional maintenance, replace filters, and—if you have a wood stove or fireplace—have the chimney swept before the cold season.

8. Check Drainage and Window Wells

Debris-filled window wells or ground sloping toward the home can cause water infiltration during freeze-thaw cycles.

Tip: Clean window wells, clear drains, and adjust the slope of the soil if needed.

9. Seal Air Leaks

The temperature swings of November make air leaks more noticeable — and more costly.

Tip: Add weatherstripping, seal cracks around doors, windows, and foundations, and check exterior electrical outlets for drafts.

By checking these 9 essential points, you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises, increase comfort, and help preserve your home’s value. A little maintenance now… for a safer, cozier winter ahead.

Categories Inspection, Home Purchase, Home Sale

How to Turn a Home Inspection Report Into a Strategic Advantage

When buying a home, the inspection is often seen as a stressful step—one that can potentially derail a transaction. Buyers, sellers, and real estate brokers each approach it with their own concerns. Yet when used properly, the inspection report becomes a powerful tool to secure the transaction and build trust.

Understanding the Role of the Inspection Report

A home inspection report is not a final verdict on the condition of a house, but rather a detailed snapshot of its state at the time of the visit. It highlights the property’s strengths, its weaknesses, and the work that may be required in the short, medium, and long term.

  • For the buyer, it’s a tool that helps guide an informed decision.
  • For the seller, it’s a way to demonstrate transparency.
  • For the real estate broker, it’s a lever that helps build trust and guide the discussion in a constructive way.

A New Way to Look at It

Many people see the inspection as a list of “problems.” Yet every property — even a brand-new one — has areas that can be improved.

The buyer must remember that the goal isn’t to get a perfect house, but to pay a fair price based on its actual condition.

Here are some possible strategies:

  • Negotiate a price reduction based on the major repairs required.
  • Request that certain repairs be completed before taking possession.
  • Use the report to plan a realistic maintenance and renovation budget.

Prioritizing the Findings

Not all items in an inspection report carry the same weight. It’s essential to group them into three categories:

Category 1 — Urgent and Major : water infiltration, electrical issues, unstable structure.
→ To be addressed during the negotiation.
Category 2 — Medium-Term Items : an aging roof, a water heater near the end of its lifespan, worn caulking.
→ Useful for adjusting the sale price or planning a budget for upcoming work.
Category 3 — Routine Maintenance : minor cosmetic cracks, gutter maintenance.
→ Rarely a point of negotiation, but important to consider for future maintenance planning.

The Key Role of the Real Estate Broker

Real estate brokers are at the heart of this dynamic. They must help their clients interpret the report by explaining to buyers which findings are truly concerning and which ones fall under normal maintenance. By turning the inspection report into a basis for dialogue, the broker becomes a mediator and reinforces their role as a trusted advisor.

In Conclusion

In real estate, transparency is always a key to success. The inspection report is therefore not an obstacle, but a strategic lever that helps finalize a transaction on solid foundations!

Categories Cleaning and Maintenance

Fall Check-Up: Take Care of Your Home and Your Investment!

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Autumn brings colourful landscapes and long walks in the woods, but it’s also the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. Small neglected tasks can quickly turn into costly repairs. With a bit of preventive maintenance, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and protect the value of your investment. Here are a few practical tips to keep your property in good shape — and to reassure future buyers if you plan to sell!

utters: A Small Task That Prevents Big Problems

Gutters play an essential role: they direct water away from the house and protect the roof, siding, and foundation. In the fall, they quickly fill up with leaves, pine needles, and debris.

To do:

• Clean the gutters and downspouts at the end of October and make sure they are securely attached.
• Make sure the water is directed at least 2 metres away from the foundation.
• Install gutter guards if maintenance is difficult or if the house is surrounded by trees.

Reminder : A water blockage can lead to infiltration, foundation cracks, or even soil settling around the house.

Drains and Foundations: Preventing Water Infiltration

Freezing and thawing during the winter can worsen moisture problems. When French drains are clogged or not functioning properly, they can cause water infiltration in the basement.

To do: :

• Check the slope of the ground: water should flow away from the house, not accumulate around it.
• Inspect any visible cracks in the foundation and, if in doubt, consult a professional to determine whether repairs are necessary.
• Make sure the drain outlets and window wells are clear.

Reminder: A small investment in prevention can save you thousands of dollars in repair work.

Insulation and Sealing: Better to Heat Smarter, Not More

With energy prices constantly changing, a poorly insulated home can quickly become a major source of unnecessary expenses. Fall is the perfect season to check for weak spots in the building envelope.

To do: :

• Check the caulking around windows and doors.
• Inspect the attic: good insulation helps prevent ice buildup and protects the roof.
• Install weatherstripping or replace any worn-out ones.

Reminder : A well-insulated home retains heat more effectively, lowers heating costs, and increases comfort for everyone inside.

Heating: Get Your System Ready Before the First Snow

No one wants to be left without heating in the middle of January! A poorly maintained system can not only break down, but also pose a safety risk.

  • You can have your central heating system inspected by a licensed professional for a thorough cleaning and tune-up.
  • Clean or replace the filters on furnaces and heat pumps.
  • Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Reminder : An annual maintenance visit ensures your system runs smoothly, extends its lifespan, and helps protect the health of the occupants.

Home Exterior: Secure and Protect

Winter conditions can be tough on exterior materials. Before the snow settles in, it’s the right time to take action.

To do: :

  • Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles.
  • Check the exterior siding joints and seal them if needed.
  • Check the condition of the chimney.
  • Go around and check all your exterior vents — dryer, range hood, bathroom fan, air exchanger — and remove any dust or lint buildup.
  • Drain your garden hoses and shut off exterior water valves to prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Store or cover outdoor furniture, the barbecue, and any exterior accessories.

Reminder : These small, simple steps protect your home — and your wallet!

Safety and Comfort: Don’t Forget the Inside

Preventive maintenance doesn’t stop at the exterior. Fall is also the perfect time to review a few key aspects of indoor safety and comfort.

To do: :

  • Clean the chimney and have it swept if you have a wood-burning fireplace.
  • Check your portable fire extinguishers and make sure they are easily accessible.
  • Remove window screens to allow warm air to reach the glass and help prevent condensation.
  • Make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Try the flame test: light a match near the frames and watch the flame. If it flickers, air is leaking in. If that’s the case, redo the caulking and replace the weatherstripping as needed.
  • Take this opportunity to clean your curtains and blinds, and lighten them if possible to help heat circulate more easily.

Reminder : These measures enhance peace of mind and improve safety for the whole family.

A Long-Term Investment That Pays Off

Whether you’re a homeowner or a real estate investor, preventive fall maintenance is a major asset. For buyers, it shows that the home has been well cared for and reduces the risk of unpleasant surprises after the purchase. For real estate brokers, a well-maintained property sells faster and inspires confidence.

Taking a few hours in the fall can pay off in a big way: fewer costly repairs, greater comfort, and a higher resale value.

Categories Bill 16

Bill 16 Adopted: New Obligations for Condominium Syndicates

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Starting August 14, 2025, new obligations will apply to condominium syndicates.
In addition to carrying property damage and liability insurance, as well as maintaining a self-insurance fund, condominium owners and managers must also have a maintenance logbook and areserve fund.
They must also be able to provide, upon request, a certificate regarding the condition of the building..

The Maintenance Logbook

The maintenance logbook must detail the maintenance work to be carried out in the common areas as well as in the private units for which the condominium syndicate is responsible.
A key tool for managing the physical aspects of a building, it consists of two parts:

Planification

• Inventory and description of the common areas (materials, equipment, and installations)
• Installation dates of equipment (if known)
• Warranty contracts
• Maintenance manuals
• Current condition and estimated useful life
• List of major repairs and replacements planned over at least 25 years, with a timeline
ChatGPT said: • Required maintenance and frequency

Archiving

• Dates of maintenance, routine and major repairs, including costs
• Contracts related to maintenance work and active warranties
• Inspection/expertise reports conducted and maintenance manuals

The new regulation specifies that the preparation and review of the maintenance logbook must be entrusted to a member of one of the following professional orders :

• Order of Engineers of Quebec
• Order of Chartered Appraisers of Quebec
• Order of Architects of Quebec
• Order of Professional Technologists of Quebec

The maintenance logbook must be updated annually by the board of directors, but eviewed every five years by an authorized professional.
Small condominiums with eight units or fewer may have this review conducted every ten years, as well as those with a maximum of three fully above-ground floors, or if the residential building has no common areas.
Good to know :Maintenance logbooks obtained between August 14, 2023, and August 14, 2025, are valid if they were prepared by an authorized professional under the Law 16 regulations.
Condominiums that have not yet done so have until August 14, 2028, to complete this task.

Reserve Fund Study

Complementary to the maintenance logbook, this study aims to estimate the costs of major repairs to be carried out. Condominium syndicates must conduct a reserve fund evaluation every five years. As with the maintenance logbook, condominiums have until August 14, 2028, to complete this study, while those that have done so in the past two years should plan to renew it within five years. The professionals authorized to perform this task are the same as those who prepare and review the maintenance logbook, with the addition of members of the Order of Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) of Quebec.

Condominium Syndicate Certificate on the Condition of the Building

Prospective condominium buyers can request a certificate on the condition of the building from the condominium syndicate, which has 15 days to provide the document.

Information to Be Provided

• The amount of the reserve fund, along with details on its assessment.
• The history of condominium owners’ contributions to common expenses over the past three years
• Available cash reserves
• Annual surpluses/deficits recorded over the past three years
• The projected budget for the current year
• Une preuve des assurances de la copropriété
• The amount of the self-insurance fund
• Changes to the declaration of co-ownership over the past three years

The prospective buyer must be informed of any incidents that occurred in the past five years, as well as major repairs that have been completed and those planned for the next ten years. If there are any ongoing legal disputes involving the syndicate, the buyer must also be notified.

Summary of Obligations and Deadlines

• Maintenance Logbook : Authorized professional, by August 14, 2028; updated annually; reviewed every 5 or 10 years.
• Reserve Fund Study : Authorized professional, by August 14, 2028; updated every 5 years.
• Attestation du syndicat : remise dans les 15 jours sur demande, obligatoire dès le 14 août 2025.

For Further Information : https://www.hoodi.ai/article/loi-16-reglement-copropriete-adopte

Sources :

https://www.protegez-vous.ca/nouvelles/habitation/copropriete-quebec-precise-les-obligations-des-syndicats

https://rgcq.org/actualites/adoption-du-reglement-d-application-du-projet-de-loi-16

Categories Inspection, Home Sale

Take Advantage of Summer to Stay Ahead!

image-pad-inspec-thor-profitez-de-saison-estivale-prendre-devant-inspec-thor

Summer is the season of vacations and BBQs, but it’s also the perfect time to get your property ready for sale.
If you're planning to put your home on the market this fall, it's wise to get started on a few key steps now — and a pre-sale inspection is one of them!
Still too often overlooked, a property condition assessment can make all the difference in the success and smooth flow of a real estate transaction.
Whether you're a homeowner looking to sell or a real estate broker, here's why summer is the perfect time to plan this strategic step.

Get a Head Start

One of the greatest advantages of conducting a property condition assessment is that this proactive approach allows you to identify defects or irregularities in advance that could cause issues during the offer process. It gives the seller the opportunity to:

  • Make the necessary repairs before listing the property,
  • Adjust the pricing strategy based on the actual condition of the property,
  • Avoid delays or last-minute negotiations.

Take Advantage of Summer to Get Repairs Done

Summer offers ideal conditions to carry out a property condition assessment, as well as to complete certain repairs if needed. It’s much easier (and faster) to address issues such as a crack, inadequate ventilation, or a roofing problem when the weather is favorable.
By acting early, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and set yourself up for a smooth and professional market launch in the fall.

Give Your Broker a Strategic Tool

From a broker’s perspective, a property condition assessment is an excellent tool for enhancing the value of a property. It allows you to:

  • Building a strong sales pitch for the listing,
  • Reassuring potential buyers,
  • Reducing the risks of offer withdrawals or unexpected price reductions.

These factors can make the difference between a quick sale and a prolonged one.

Our Inspectors Are Here for You All Summer!

Unlike many industries that slow down during the holidays, our inspectors remain available by appointment throughout the summer.
Whether it’s for a single-family home, a condo, a vacation property, or a rental building, we provide professional, detailed inspections tailored to your needs.

Get Ahead… Now!

Don’t let chance or haste compromise your transaction. Schedule a property condition assessment today and maximize your chances for a successful sale this fall.

Book an Appointment

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