Are you familiar with the concept of a certificate of location? If you’re planning to sell your home in Quebec, it’s vital to acquaint yourself with this significant legal document.
The certificate of location holds great importance in the real estate sales procedure as it offers essential information about the property you intend to sell. Our realtors in Sainte-Julienne will provide you with comprehensive knowledge on this matter.
What is a certificate of location in Québec
The certificate of location is an official document exclusively prepared by a qualified land surveyor. It offers a comprehensive depiction of the property, encompassing its boundaries, existing structures, easements, and potential encroachments from or on neighboring properties.
Furthermore, the certificate of location assesses the property’s adherence to present municipal, provincial, or national regulations, including aspects like minimum distance requirements from property lines and zoning regulations.
Additionally, the surveyor may include observations or issues concerning the property, such as accessibility concerns. In essence, it provides a precise summary of the property’s legal status.
Certificate of location: is it mandatory?
As per the Quebec government, the answer is affirmative. It is highly customary for notaries and buyers to request an up-to-date certificate of location when engaging in a real estate transaction. This requirement guarantees that all involved parties possess the necessary information to proceed with the sale, fully aware of the relevant details.
By having an up-to-date certificate of location, the buyer can confidently submit an offer to purchase, knowing they have a comprehensive understanding of the property’s conditions and can proceed with peace of mind.
How much does a certificate of location cost
The expense associated with obtaining a certificate of location can fluctuate based on various factors, such as the property’s size, complexity, geographic location, and the fees charged by the surveyor.
However, the Ordre des Arpenteurs-Géomètres du Québec offers recommended public rates as a guideline. As of 2023, they propose a cost of $1,500 for a certificate of location for a single-family home in an urban area. For semi-detached houses, the suggested rate may increase to $2,705.
Certificate of location validity in Québec
While there is no strict rule regarding the validity period of a certificate of location, it is generally recommended that the document be less than 10 years old. The reason for this is that significant changes to the property or its surroundings may occur over an extended period of time.
For instance, if you have made modifications to the property or added new structures, such as a swimming pool, these changes would not be reflected in an older certificate of location. As a result, it would be difficult to verify compliance with distance regulations or assess any new easements.
The notary is the professional who can determine whether the certificate is up to date or not, utilizing their expertise in this matter.
Who pays for the certificate of location?
Typically, it is the seller who bears the cost of obtaining the certificate of location. This expense is considered one of the common fees associated with the documentation necessary for selling a property. However, if the buyer specifically requests a new certificate of location, and it turns out that the new certificate does not differ from the existing one held by the seller, then the buyer would be responsible for covering the associated fees.
Our realtors are there for you
When it comes to selling your home, it’s crucial to have a reliable team of professionals by your side. Our knowledgeable REMAX real estate brokers are ready to provide expert guidance throughout the entire transaction process and address any inquiries you may have regarding the certificate of location and legal obligations.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs when selling your property in the Lanaudière region.
