Building Code Violation
Explore building code violations in Canadian real estate — what they are, their risks, and how they’re resolved.

July 27, 2025
What is a Building Code Violation?
A building code violation occurs when a property or construction project fails to meet the requirements set out in applicable building codes and safety regulations.
Why Building Code Violations Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian real estate, building code violations can delay sales, lead to fines, or require costly remediation.
Common violations:
- Improper electrical or plumbing work
- Unpermitted structural changes
- Inadequate fire safety measures
Understanding code violations helps owners, buyers, and builders manage risk and compliance.
Example of a Building Code Violation in Action
The inspector flagged a building code violation for a deck built without required safety railings.
Key Takeaways
- Property does not comply with code requirements
- May lead to fines or corrective orders
- Can delay sales or approvals
- Identified through inspections
- Requires professional remediation
Related Terms
- Building Permit
- Permit Compliance
- Home Inspection
- Unpermitted Work
- Final Inspection

A rendering of Frame in East Vancouver. (Peterson)
The Tesla facility set for 908 Raymur Avenue in Vancouver. (Beedie)
Phase One of Sen̓áḵw in Summer 2025. (OPTrust, Nch’ḵay̓)
(QuadReal Property Group, Westbank)
The two-tower Cascades project under construction in mid-2025. (Ledcor)
A rendering of Perla near Central Park. (Polygon Homes)
Phase One of Concord Metrotown is located at the corner of Kingsway and Nelson Avenue in Burnaby. (Concord Pacific)
Myriad will complete Concert Properties’ Heart of Burquitlam community. (Concert Properties)
SOCO 2 (left) in Coquitlam. (Drew Powell, LinkedIn)
King George Hub in Surrey. (Submitted by PCI Developments)







The Yonge Corporate Centre at 4100-4150 Yonge Street. (Europro)
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Pennyfarthing's The Capstone, Langley (pennyfarthinghomes.ca)
Rendering for MAKE Projects' Smith Campus Middle and Secondary School (makeprojects.ca)
Rendering for STRYKE's Innovation District 