Building inspections

Building inspections has two meanings. It can mean inspections by local government building officials to confirm that permitted construction work complies with the building code and bylaws. It can also mean a pre-purchase or property condition inspection arranged by a buyer or tenant to assess a building's condition. The second is a private choice, not a legal requirement.

How BC law treats it

Municipal inspections are carried out by local government building officials for permitted construction work. No law requires a pre-purchase inspection; buyers usually make one a subject (condition) of the contract. Home inspectors for residential purchases are licensed by Consumer Protection BC, while commercial property condition assessments are usually done by engineers.

What it means for your business

A business buying or leasing commercial property should consider a professional condition assessment, because the seller or landlord generally gives limited warranties about condition.

Risks and common mistakes

Waiving an inspection subject to win a competitive deal can leave the buyer responsible for costly hidden defects.

For the full explanation, see our entry on Building permits.

General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.