Contingency Clause
Learn about contingency clauses in Canadian real estate — what they are, common types, and why they protect buyers and sellers.

July 27, 2025
What is a Contingency Clause?
A contingency clause in real estate is a contract provision that makes the deal dependent on certain conditions being met, such as financing approval or inspection results.
Why Contingency Clauses Matter in Real Estate
In Canadian property transactions, contingencies protect buyers and sellers by setting clear conditions that must be satisfied for the deal to proceed.
Common contingencies:
- Financing approval
- Satisfactory home inspection
- Sale of buyer’s current home
Understanding contingency clauses helps manage risk and ensures clarity in negotiations.
Example of Contingency Clause in Action
The offer included a contingency clause making the purchase conditional on a satisfactory home inspection.
Key Takeaways
- Sets conditions for deal to proceed
- Protects parties in a transaction
- Common in offers to purchase
- Helps manage risk and expectations
- Must be clearly documented


105 (left) and 95 (right) Moatfield Drive in Toronto. (Cushman & Wakefield)
Renderings of Toronto Fortune Centre at 95 and 105 Moatfield Drive. (TAES Architects, Sunray Group)
Sunray Group’s Ray Gupta (centre) at a renovation commence ceremony last month. (TAES Architects)






Source:
Source: TRREB Marketwatch via
Source: TRREB Marketwatch via
Source: TRREB Marketwatch via
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Source: Teranet Q1 2026 Market Insights (
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