Home Inspection Before Moving In: What to Check

Plumbing and Electrical Systems to Check

Montreal's housing stock is old — many homes and apartments date to the early 1900s. Before moving day, test every faucet and flush every toilet. Check under sinks for signs of leaking, water damage, or mold. In older Montreal plexes, ask whether the plumbing is original cast iron or has been updated to copper or PEX. Replacing a building's plumbing stack can cost $10,000–$20,000.

For electrical, look at the panel. If you see a fuse box rather than breakers, the system likely predates the 1960s and may need upgrading ($3,000–$8,000). Test every outlet — non-functional outlets in older Montreal apartments are common. If you're buying, your inspector should check for knob-and-tube wiring and aluminum wiring, both of which are fire risks and can affect insurance.

Structural Issues and Pest Concerns

Check the foundation walls in the basement (if accessible) for cracks wider than a pencil — these can indicate settling that may need professional repair. In Montreal, freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on foundations, and water infiltration through basement walls is one of the most common and expensive problems. Look for white mineral deposits (efflorescence) on concrete, which signal moisture migration.

Montreal has bed bug and cockroach challenges in certain neighborhoods and older buildings. Before moving furniture in, inspect baseboards, closets, and any carpeted areas carefully. If you're renting, ask the landlord directly about pest history — they're required to disclose known infestations. For buyers, a pest inspection ($200–$400) alongside your general home inspection is money well spent.

Pre-Move Safety Checklist

Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms — replace batteries or install new ones before moving day. Check that windows open and close properly (critical for fire escape in Montreal's walk-ups). Verify that exterior stairs and balconies are structurally sound, especially on Montreal's signature outdoor spiral staircases, which deteriorate with age and salt exposure.

Change the locks on your first day — you never know how many copies of the old keys exist. Document the condition of every room with photos before moving anything in. This protects you in disputes with landlords over damage deposits or with sellers over undisclosed defects. Once your inspection is complete and any issues are addressed, Up & Out can schedule your move-in day with confidence.