Personal Property Security Act

Learn about the Personal Property Security Act (PPSA) in Canada — what it is, how it works, and its role in securing interests in personal property.

Personal Property Security Act

August 01, 2025



What is the Personal Property Security Act?

The Personal Property Security Act (PPSA) is provincial legislation in Canada that governs the creation, registration, and enforcement of security interests in personal property.

Why the Personal Property Security Act Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate and lending, the PPSA ensures transparency and priority when lenders take security over personal property, including equipment or fixtures.



Key points:
  • Establishes a central registry for security interests
  • Determines priority among multiple creditors
  • Applies to movable property and fixtures



Understanding the PPSA helps lenders, borrowers, and buyers manage risk and verify ownership rights.

Example of the Personal Property Security Act in Action

The lender registered a security interest under the Personal Property Security Act to secure financing for the restaurant's equipment.

Key Takeaways

  • Governs security interests in personal property
  • Ensures creditor priority and transparency
  • Includes a public registry of interests
  • Applies to movable property and fixtures
  • Critical for lending and asset transfers

Additional Terms

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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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