Building Maintenance

Learn what building maintenance involves in Canadian real estate and why regular upkeep is essential for safety, compliance, and value retention.

Building Maintenance

June 06, 2025


What is Building Maintenance?

Building maintenance refers to the routine upkeep, repair, and inspection of a property’s systems and structure to preserve functionality, safety, and value.

Why Building Maintenance Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, building maintenance is essential for property management, tenant satisfaction, and asset longevity.


Maintenance responsibilities include:
  • HVAC, plumbing, and electrical upkeep
  • Roof and exterior repairs
  • Common area cleanliness and lighting
  • Seasonal maintenance (e.g., snow removal, landscaping)



In condominiums, maintenance is funded through reserve funds and outlined in bylaws. In rental housing, landlords are legally required to maintain livable conditions.



Understanding building maintenance helps owners plan budgets, avoid code violations, and ensure occupant well-being.

Example of Building Maintenance in Action

The property manager schedules quarterly HVAC inspections and exterior pressure washing as part of a proactive building maintenance plan.

Key Takeaways

  • Ensures safety, functionality, and value
  • Required in rentals and condos
  • Covers structural, systems, and aesthetic upkeep
  • Prevents costly repairs and code issues
  • Critical for long-term asset performance

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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