2026 Property Inspection Checklist
To remain compliant with local regulations and the Ontario Building Code, every inspection should cover these high-priority areas:
- Fire Safety: Testing smoke and CO alarms (Note: Shared furnaces now require duct-type smoke detectors).
- Building Envelope: Checking for window drafts, roof leaks, and foundation cracks.
- Mechanical Systems: Inspecting HVAC filters, water heaters, and electrical panels for frayed wiring.
- Exterior Maintenance: Ensuring yard drainage, rear yard drains, and exterior lighting meet the 2026 Nuisance Lighting standards.
Why Regular Inspections Matter for Owners and Tenants
1. Maintenance & Cost Control
Small issues like a leaky faucet or a cracked tile can cause thousands in water damage if left unchecked. Routine checks identify these maintenance concerns early, saving the owner significant capital over the property’s lifecycle.
2. Occupant Safety & Bylaw Compliance
Under the 2026 Windsor standards, landlords have a legal duty to ensure life safety systems are maintained. This includes minimum ceiling heights for basement units and ensuring vacant buildings are not “boarded up” but maintained in a viable state for future use.
3. Protecting Property Value
A well-maintained property justifies higher rent and attracts long-term, reliable tenants. Inspections ensure that the 2026 Ontario Rent Increase Guideline (2.1%) is supported by a home that remains in a “good state of repair.”
4. Reduced Legal Liability
Documenting your inspections is your best defense at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). It proves you have been proactive in addressing safety hazards, shielding you from potential injury claims or tenant disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Windsor Property Inspections
How much notice is required for an inspection in 2026?
In accordance with the RTA, you must provide 24 hours’ written notice. The entry must be between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM and specify a reasonable time window.
Does Windsor require a rental license for inspections?
Yes. If your property is in a designated ward (like Ward 1 or 2), you must have a Residential Rental License (RRL). A “Property Standards and Safety Checklist” must be completed annually for renewal.
Can I take photos during a routine inspection?
You can take photos to document repairs or the state of the property. However, under Ontario privacy laws, you generally cannot take photos of a tenant’s personal belongings for marketing or virtual tours without explicit consent.
Are “boarded-up” vacant buildings allowed?
Under the new By-law 148-2025, boarding up vacant buildings is generally prohibited unless they were damaged by fire or natural events. Owners are now required to maintain the exterior appearance of vacant properties to prevent neighborhood blight.
What is the new rule for shared furnaces?
The updated property standards now require duct-type smoke detectors for shared furnace systems to prevent smoke from traveling between separate units through the ventilation.
Conclusion
Routine property inspections are the backbone of a successful investment strategy in the Windsor-Essex area. They protect your tenants, your wallet, and your reputation as a landlord. If you need assistance navigating the new 2026 bylaw updates or require professional management, contact our expert team today.
