The real estate market is currently booming. As buying an already inhabited condo has become a real headache, you are exploring the new condo market.

What precautions should you take to protect yourself in the event of a problem?

Check if the condo is covered by the warranty of the Régie du bâtiment du Québec

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), discovered and denounced within three years after receipt of your condo. All coverage lasts for up to five years after you receive your condo. You must generally report defects within a reasonable time.

You are automatically and legally protected by the RBQ's New Residential Building Guarantee Plan if the contractor you have chosen holds a general contractor's license.

Check if the contractor is accredited

Before buying or building a new condo, make sure that the contractor you want to do business with holds a general contractor's license.

To check if your contractor holds a general contractor's license, consult the Register of license holders.

Have your condo inspected before receiving it

To benefit from the Guarantee Plan for New Residential Buildings, two inspections must be made, one inspection for each part of the condo:

Each inspection is based on a list of items to check provided by the administrator of the RBQ.