BREAKING: BoC Cuts Interest Rate To 2.50% After Three Consecutive Holds

Property Use History

Learn about property use history in Canadian real estate: why it matters, how it's assessed, and what it reveals about environmental or legal risks.

Property Use History

June 16, 2025


What is Property Use History?

Property use history refers to the documented past uses, functions, and occupancy of a property, which may affect environmental risk, zoning, or redevelopment potential.

Why Property Use History Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, reviewing property use history is a key step in due diligence, particularly for industrial, commercial, or infill residential sites.



A property’s historical use may:
  • Reveal former industrial or contaminated activity
  • Determine grandfathered zoning or easements
  • Influence valuation or insurance availability
  • Affect environmental assessment requirements



Historical records are often reviewed during title searches or Phase I environmental site assessments.



Understanding property use history helps buyers and developers assess risk, suitability, and any hidden liabilities before acquisition or redevelopment.

Example of Property Use History in Action

A Phase I environmental assessment reveals the property was once a dry cleaner, prompting a Phase II investigation due to the property’s use history.

Key Takeaways

  • Reveals past uses of land or structures
  • May uncover contamination or legal restrictions
  • Influences environmental due diligence
  • Important for commercial and redevelopment sites
  • Informs zoning and permitting decisions

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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