Richmond has a condo for almost every type of buyer. Newer high-rises surround Richmond City Centre and the Canada Line, while established buildings are found throughout central Richmond and closer to Steveston. Two condos may look similar online, yet their age, maintenance history, building systems, and individual condition can be very different.
A condo inspection gives you information that listing photos, a showing, and strata documents cannot provide on their own. Core Property Inspections completes condo inspections throughout Richmond, helping buyers get a closer look before removing subjects. Owner and Home Inspector Aaron Borsch brings more than 16 years of experience and has completed over 10,000 property inspections throughout the Greater Lower Mainland.
Here is what Richmond condo buyers should know before making their purchase.
Every Richmond Condo Unit Has Its Own History
A strata may be well managed, but that does not mean every condo in the building is in the same condition.
A slow leak beneath a kitchen sink, an electrical concern, poor bathroom ventilation, or signs of previous moisture around a window may be specific to the condo you are considering.
These details are also easy to miss during a showing. Buyers are usually looking at room sizes, finishes, storage, views, and whether the property feels like home. There simply is not enough time to thoroughly assess how everything is functioning.
A professional condo inspection changes the focus. Instead of looking at how the property presents, Aaron focuses on its accessible systems and components.
Older and Newer Richmond Condos Can Have Issues
After more than 10,000 property inspections, Aaron knows that age alone does not determine whether a condo is in good condition.
An older property may have been exceptionally well maintained and updated over the years. A newer condo can still have installation problems or components that are not performing as they should.
Older Richmond Condos
When inspecting an older condo, it is useful to understand what has been updated and what remains original.
Depending on the age and history of the unit, an inspection may identify:
- Older plumbing materials or fixtures
- Aging electrical components
- Windows or seals showing deterioration
- Older heating equipment
- Previous repairs or renovations
- Evidence of past moisture concerns
Poly B plumbing is one example buyers may encounter in some BC properties built primarily from the mid-1980s through the 1990s. Its presence does not automatically indicate a current problem, but it is something buyers should know about when planning future maintenance, insurance, and replacement.
Newer Richmond Condos
Richmond has seen considerable condo development around City Centre and Canada Line stations. It is tempting to assume a condo that is five or ten years old will not have much wrong with it.
That is not always the case.
Plumbing fixtures, ventilation, heating and cooling equipment, windows, doors, appliances, and signs of moisture can all deserve attention in a newer unit.
The issues may differ from those found in an older condo, but that does not make the inspection any less valuable.
Pay Attention to Signs of Moisture
Richmond shares the wet coastal climate found throughout Metro Vancouver, making moisture an important consideration when inspecting a condo.
Aaron looks for visible clues that something may need further attention. That could include staining around windows, damaged finishes, condensation concerns, deteriorated sealant in accessible areas, or evidence of previous water entry.
One stain does not automatically mean there is a serious building problem.
Experience matters when putting these observations into context. Aaron looks at what is visible, considers other conditions in the unit, and explains whether something appears minor or warrants further investigation.
That perspective is an important part of an inspection. Buyers need more than a list of imperfections. They need to understand what the findings could mean for the property they are considering.
Know What Your Condo Inspection Covers
Core Property Inspections provides detailed condo inspections and assessments of the non-invasive accessible systems and components.
The inspection includes the plumbing, heating, and electrical systems and identifies items that may present an immediate or future safety concern. Appliances are also reviewed for general wear and tear, with practical maintenance suggestions provided where appropriate.
Depending on the property, Aaron may assess:
- Plumbing fixtures, shut-offs, and accessible pipes
- Heating and cooling systems serving the unit
- Electrical systems and components
- Windows and doors
- Kitchen and bathroom ventilation
- Appliances for general wear and tear
- Visible evidence of leaks or moisture
- Interior walls, ceilings, flooring, and cabinetry
- Signs of previous repairs or deterioration
- Potential safety concerns
The purpose is not to create a list of every minor imperfection. Aaron explains what he finds, why it matters, and what may need attention now or in the future.
Where visible and accessible, Core Property Inspections may also provide a general opinion on common areas such as the roof, underground parking, building envelope, and mechanical systems. This is limited to what can be viewed and does not include a detailed analysis of these areas.
Photos are included in the inspection report, giving you a visual reference for the findings after the inspection is complete.
Check the Strata Documents Too
A condo inspection and strata document review serve different purposes, and buyers benefit from doing both. If you are a first time condo buyer, check out our blog on Understanding Strata Documents.
The physical inspection reveals the condition of the condo. Strata documents provide information about what has happened within the building and what may be planned for the future.
Depending on the property, buyers may have access to information such as council and general meeting minutes, financial statements, bylaws, a Form B, and a depreciation report.
Consider how these pieces can work together.
An inspector might notice evidence of previous moisture around a window. The strata records may provide more context about whether window or building envelope concerns have been discussed.
Likewise, the strata minutes could mention upcoming building work that would never be apparent from looking around the individual condo.
Core Property Inspections is also happy to provide an opinion on an available depreciation report. This can help buyers better understand information about major building components and anticipated maintenance or replacement planning.
The inspection and depreciation report opinion does not replace a complete review of the strata documentation or other appropriate professional advice.
For more information, read our Understanding Strata Documents for First-Time Condo Buyers Guide.
Look Beyond the Renovations and Staging
A beautifully renovated condo can make a strong first impression.
New flooring, fresh paint, modern cabinetry, and stylish lighting are easy to notice. They can also draw your attention away from the less exciting details.
Does the bathroom fan operate properly? Is there evidence of a leak beneath the sink? Are there electrical concerns? Is there staining around a window? Does the heating system respond as expected?
A recently renovated condo deserves the same scrutiny as any other property. New finishes do not necessarily mean the plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, or other systems were updated at the same time. Learn more about the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Condo Inspections.
Attend Your Condo Inspection When You Can
A condo inspection is not simply about receiving a report.
Attending gives you an opportunity to see the property from a different perspective. You can ask questions, see findings firsthand, and learn more about maintaining the condo after you move in.
Aaron can also help put individual findings into perspective.
A loose cabinet hinge and evidence of an active plumbing leak do not carry the same weight. Understanding the difference helps you focus on what matters rather than becoming overwhelmed by a long list of observations.
After the inspection, you will receive a detailed report with photographs and clear explanations that you can refer back to as you make your purchasing decision.
Brand New Richmond Condos Need a Different Inspection
Buying a newly built condo changes the focus of the inspection.
Rather than looking at years of wear, a new build condo inspection focuses on deficiencies, incomplete work, installation concerns, and items that may need to be brought to the developer’s attention.
New does not mean flawless.
An independent inspection may identify concerns involving doors and windows, plumbing fixtures, electrical components, heating and ventilation, appliances, damaged materials, interior finishes, or incomplete workmanship.
Finding these items early gives buyers an opportunity to document deficiencies and bring appropriate concerns to the builder.
Core Property Inspections also provides new-build condo inspections throughout Richmond and the Greater Lower Mainland. Read our New Build Condo Inspection Walkthrough to learn more about what to check when purchasing a newly constructed condo.
Book Your Richmond Condo Inspection Before You Buy
Buying a condo is a significant investment, whether it is your first home, a move to Richmond, a downsizing decision, or a step into one of the city’s newer developments. Before removing subjects, make sure you know as much as possible about the property you are buying.
Core Property Inspections brings more than 16 years of experience and over 10,000 completed property inspections to buyers throughout Richmond and the Greater Lower Mainland. Aaron Borsch takes the time to explain what he finds and what those findings mean for you as a buyer.
Contact Core Property Inspections
Book a Richmond condo inspection with Core Property Inspections before you buy. Serving Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, and the greater Lower Mainland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) From Condo Buyers
Do I need an inspection if my Richmond condo is newer?
Yes. Newer condos can still have installation issues, moisture concerns, malfunctioning components, or other deficiencies. Age alone cannot tell you the condition of the unit.
What is included in a pre-purchase condo inspection?
Core Property Inspections assesses accessible components including plumbing, heating, electrical systems, ventilation, windows and doors, appliances, and visible signs of moisture or deterioration. The inspection also looks for items that may present immediate or future safety concerns.
Should I attend my condo inspection?
Yes, when possible. Attending gives you an opportunity to see findings firsthand, ask questions, and learn more about the condo you may soon own.
Should I review the depreciation report?
Yes. A depreciation report can provide valuable information about major common property components and anticipated repair or replacement planning. Core Property Inspections is happy to provide an opinion on the report when one is available.
What happens if the inspection finds a problem?
Aaron explains what was observed and why it matters. Depending on the concern, you may want additional information, further evaluation by an appropriate professional, or a conversation with your real estate agent before removing subjects.
Does a brand-new condo need an inspection?
Yes. New-build inspections can identify deficiencies, workmanship concerns, incomplete items, and components that may need correction by the developer.