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Ingress and Egress

Explore ingress and egress in Canadian real estate — why legal access matters for commercial use, safety, and site design.

Ingress and Egress

June 09, 2025


What is Ingress and Egress?

Ingress and egress refer to the legal rights of access into (ingress) and out of (egress) a property, particularly important in commercial real estate and site planning.

Why Ingress and Egress Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, clear ingress and egress are essential for safety, usability, and legal compliance—especially for retail, office, or industrial properties.



Considerations include:
  • Driveway and road access
  • Emergency exits
  • Shared access rights (e.g., easements)
  • Parking lot design and flow



Restrictions or unclear access can reduce a property’s value, complicate development, or lead to legal disputes.



Understanding ingress and egress is vital for buyers, tenants, developers, and municipalities ensuring accessible and compliant site layouts.

Example of Ingress and Egress in Action

Before signing the lease, the tenant confirms that the storefront has direct egress to the rear alley for deliveries and fire compliance.

Key Takeaways

  • Defines legal property access
  • Essential for safety and operations
  • Affects value and compliance
  • Includes pedestrian and vehicle flow
  • Must be verified in commercial deals

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Recourse Loan

A recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender can pursue the borrower’s personal assets, beyond the collateral, in the event of default.. more

Pari Passu

A pari passu clause is a contractual provision ensuring that multiple creditors share equally in repayment priority from the borrower’s assets.. more

Non-Recourse Loan

A non-recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender’s only remedy in case of default is to seize the collateral property; the borrower is not. more

Net Operating Income

Net operating income (NOI) is the total income generated by a property after operating expenses are deducted but before taxes and financing costs.. more

Mechanic's Lien

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim by a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier for unpaid work or materials provided for a property.. more

Lis Pendens

Lis pendens is a legal notice filed in the land registry indicating that a property is subject to ongoing litigation that may affect its title.. more

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