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Duplex · Triplex · Fourplex · Plexes and small income properties

Multi-unit inspection in
Montreal

A residential plex or small income property (2 to 4 units — duplex, triplex, fourplex) means multiple units, multiple systems and multiple responsibilities. Our inspection examines accessible units according to the agreement, evaluates visible shared systems, and gives you a clear picture — from duplex to fourplex. For 5+ unit multi-residential buildings, see our commercial / multi-unit inspection.

📞 (514) 802-7215 Book online →

InterNACHI Certified · Insured · 24h* Report

Scope of our multi-unit inspection The inspection is visual and non-invasive. It documents the visible and accessible condition of the building at the time of the visit, according to the agreement and available access. It does not replace engineering expertise, contractor estimates, environmental studies, real estate appraisal, financial analysis, legal advice or specialized regulatory verification.
What this page covers

Plexes and small income properties —
duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes.

This page covers inspection of residential plexes and small income properties of 2 to 4 units: duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes. Once a building has 5 or more units, the file is handled as commercial / multi-unit inspection because the scope, shared systems, access, risk profile and due-diligence level are different.

✓ Duplex (2 units) — residential / plex inspection on this page.
✓ Triplex (3 units) — residential / plex inspection on this page.
✓ Fourplex (4 units) — residential / plex inspection on this page.
✓ 5+ unit multi-residential buildings — handled as commercial / multi-unit inspection (different scope, systems, access and due diligence).

Note: this is our inspection-scope categorization. The legal, tax or municipal commercial/residential classification can depend on actual use, municipal zoning, the assessment roll, financing, insurance and the presence of mixed occupancy.

Who this is for

You're buying a revenue property in
Montreal.

For buyers, owners and investors in income properties who need to understand the visible overall condition of the building, accessible units, observable shared systems, common areas and maintenance priorities. We inspect plexes across Montreal and the surrounding areas.

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Duplex / triplex buyer
You're buying a plex to live in one unit and rent the others. You need to know the condition of each unit, the shared systems, and what repairs to expect before committing.
A duplex or triplex inspection must account for shared systems, exterior stairs, roof, foundations, drainage and access to occupied units. The report documents what was accessible and what was limited.
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Real estate investor
You're buying a revenue property as an investment. You need to understand the visible condition of the building, maintenance priorities and items requiring further review.
For an investor, the inspection supports planning by documenting visible building condition, maintenance priorities, systems to monitor and specialist verifications to consider.
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Fourplex buyer
You're buying a 4-unit building (fourplex). The inspection observes accessible units, visible shared systems and observable safety elements according to the agreement. For 5+ unit multi-residential buildings, see our commercial / multi-unit inspection.
Why inspect a multiplex

Evaluate your rental investment
with full clarity.

A revenue property is a major investment with elements to verify depending on age, maintenance history and available access. Shared systems, accessible units and visible components may influence planning after acquisition. Our inspection helps you get a clear picture of visible and accessible items before you buy. We inspect plexes across Montreal, Laval, the South Shore and the West Island. For commercial properties or 5+ unit multi-residential buildings, see our commercial / multi-unit inspection.

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Each unit inspected
Each unit is verified separately: plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, windows and interior finishes.
Accessible units are reviewed visually according to the agreed scope. Differences between units, access limitations and visible conditions are documented clearly in the report.
⚡
Shared systems checked
Electrical panels, main plumbing, shared water heaters, central heating systems and service entrance evaluated in depth.
Shared plumbing, electrical distribution, heating, water entry, main drainage, roof and exterior components often carry the highest maintenance risk in a plex.
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Fire safety
Verification of smoke detectors, emergency exits, fire separation between units and exterior staircases.
The inspection observes visible safety elements such as exits, stairs, guardrails, smoke alarms where accessible and apparent separation conditions. Formal code compliance is outside the visual inspection scope.
What we inspect

A complete inspection,
unit by unit.

Our multi-unit inspection is designed for revenue properties. We verify each unit and all shared systems to give you a faithful portrait of the building condition. Learn about mold risks specific to Montreal duplexes and moisture problems common in plex buildings.

✓Accessible units according to the agreement — Plumbing, electrical, heating, windows and finishes of units accessible at the time of the visit
✓Accessible common areas — Entrances, hallways, interior stairs and visible shared zones
✓Visible shared systems — Main panels, main piping, shared water heaters, observable service entrance
✓Visible roofing — Roofing, flashing, chimneys, roof access when safe
✓Accessible foundation and basement — Visible foundation walls, signs of cracks, apparent settlement, basement condition
✓Visible plumbing — Observable supply and drain piping, fixtures, accessible shut-off valves
✓Visible electrical — Accessible panels and sub-panels, observable wiring, apparent indicators
✓Visible heating and ventilation — Observable furnaces, baseboards, radiators, central boiler and thermostats
✓Visible stairs, balconies and guardrails — Interior and exterior stairs, guardrails, balconies, galleries
✓Drainage, moisture and maintenance priorities — Exterior drainage, signs of infiltration or moisture, summary of maintenance priorities
What every multiplex buyer should know

The challenges unique to
revenue properties.

A multiplex comes with issues you won't find in a single-family home. Here's what you need to understand before buying.

Shared systems A multiplex often has a single central heating system, a single water service entry, a single main drain and a single main electrical panel feeding sub-panels in each unit. A deficiency in a shared system may affect several units, so these elements are important to document.
Observable safety elements Multi-unit buildings have several observable safety elements: separation between units, smoke and CO detectors in each unit, emergency exits and exterior staircases. Apparent gaps may be documented in the report; specialist verification may be recommended when applicable.
Exterior staircases and balconies Montreal plexes are often equipped with metal or wood exterior staircases. These structures are exposed to freeze-thaw cycles and deteriorate over time. The visible condition of stairs, balconies and guardrails helps prioritize items to verify and work to plan.
Masonry and building envelope Many Montreal plexes have brick facades. Brick deteriorates over time: eroded mortar joints, cracked lintels, freeze-damaged bricks. The visible condition of masonry helps identify specialist verifications and maintenance priorities. Learn about moisture issues common in Montreal plexes.
Individual unit condition Each accessible unit can be in a different visible condition. A renovated unit does not mean the others are in the same condition. Units occupied by long-term tenants may limit visibility of plumbing, electrical or ventilation items.
Flat roof Most Montreal plexes have a flat roof with membrane. Membrane age, ponding water, drainage and past repairs are important visible indicators we document when accessible.
Our process

4 simple steps
to peace of mind.

1
Quote
Describe your building and we send you a detailed quote, typically within 24h.*
2
Coordination
We plan access to each unit with the seller, broker or tenants in place.
3
Inspection
Methodical inspection of each unit and all shared systems. Duration adapted to the number of units.
4
Report
Detailed report organized by unit with photos, priority findings and recommendations, delivered in 24 to 48 hours.*
Transparent pricing

Our multi-unit
inspection rates.

Every building is unique. The rate is custom-quoted based on the number of units, total area, building age and systems in place. Request your free quote.

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Duplex
Inspection of both units, shared systems, structure, roof and all common elements. For condominiums, see also our common area inspection.
Custom quote
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Triplex
Three units inspected individually, plus visible shared systems and observable fire-safety elements (smoke alarms, visible fire separation, exits — not a code-compliance certification).
Custom quote
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Fourplex
Inspection of the 4 accessible units (fourplex) according to the agreement, with visible shared systems and observable safety elements. For 5+ unit multi-residential buildings, see our commercial / multi-unit inspection.
Custom quote
What sets us apart

Why choose
Inspecteur Élite.

✦ InterNACHI certified · IBC Network — Ongoing training and internationally recognized standards.
✦ FLIR thermal imaging available — Detection of infiltration between units, thermal bridges in exterior walls, and anomalies invisible to the naked eye. Available as an add-on.
✦ Report organized by unit — Each unit has its own section in the report. Clear, with photos and recommendations. Typically delivered in 24 to 48h.* *Depending on the number of units.
✦ Available 7 days a week — We work around your schedule and coordinate access with tenants.
✦ Thousands of inspections across Greater Montreal — Rosemont plexes, Villeray duplexes, Plateau triplexes, Verdun and Hochelaga revenue properties — we know the plexes here.
✦ Service available in English and French — Inspection and report in the language of your choice.
Decision support

Clear information to support
better planning.

For an investor, an inspection is not only about identifying visible deficiencies. It helps clarify maintenance priorities, observable risks, systems to monitor and specialist verifications that may influence planning after acquisition.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about
multi-unit inspections.

Everything you need to know before booking your multiplex inspection in Montreal.

How does a duplex or triplex inspection work?+
Each accessible unit is examined individually according to the agreement: plumbing, electrical, heating, windows and visible finishes. Shared systems like the roof, foundation, structure and drainage are also observed. Duration varies based on the number of units and available access.
Do tenants need to be present or provide access?+
Access to each unit is necessary for a complete inspection. We recommend coordinating with the seller or broker to obtain tenant agreement and plan access in advance. If a unit is inaccessible, it will be excluded from the report.
How much does a multiplex inspection cost in Montreal?+
The price is custom-quoted based on the number of units, total area, building age and complexity. Every building is different — contact us for a free quote tailored to your situation. See our detailed pricing for context on residential services.
Are each unit's systems observed?+
We perform a visual review of accessible electrical, plumbing and safety-related installations in the units visited. Apparent anomalies and items requiring specialist review are identified in the report when applicable.
Can the inspection help me plan after purchase?+
The inspection identifies the visible condition of each accessible unit and items to expect in the short-to-medium term. This information helps clarify maintenance priorities and planning after acquisition.
Why do multiplex inspection prices vary?+
The price depends on the number of units, total area, building age and system complexity. A duplex takes less time than a five-unit building. Every inspection includes a basic FLIR thermal check (when conditions allow; advanced thermography available as add-on from $350+tax) and a comprehensive report organized by unit.
What does the report actually give me after the inspection?+
The report documents each accessible unit separately with photos, priority levels and recommendations. You see the observable condition of every unit, visible shared systems and maintenance priorities to plan for.
What happens if a unit is not accessible on inspection day?+
If a unit is not accessible, it will be excluded from the report and we will note it clearly. We recommend coordinating access in advance with the seller, broker or tenants. Ideally, all units should be accessible for a complete picture.
Are all units inspected?+
Units accessible at the time of the visit may be inspected depending on the agreement and available access. Access limitations are identified in the report.
Does the inspection cover shared systems?+
Visible and accessible shared systems may be observed, including plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, roofing, common areas and accessible exterior components.
Is this useful for a real estate investor?+
Yes. The inspection helps clarify the visible overall condition of the building, maintenance priorities, observable deficiencies and specialist verifications to consider.
How much does a home inspector cost in Montreal? What is the price of an inspection?+
Our rates start at $550+tax for a condo inspection, $750+tax for a single-family home inspection, and custom quote for plex, multi-unit and commercial inspections. The cost of a home inspector, house inspector, property inspector or residential building inspector depends on the size, age and complexity of the building. See our detailed pricing or contact us for a precise quote.
Are you a certified, licensed and accredited home inspector?+
Yes. We are InterNACHI-certified (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors), IBC Network members, and professionally insured. As a certified inspector, licensed inspector, accredited inspector, home inspector, house inspector, property inspector or residential building inspector, we meet the most demanding North American standards of practice.
Which areas do you offer your home inspection services?+
We offer inspection services in Montreal and throughout the Greater Montreal area: Island of Montreal (all boroughs — Verdun, Plateau, Rosemont, Côte-des-Neiges, Westmount, Saint-Léonard, Ville-Marie, Mercier–Hochelaga, Rivière-des-Prairies–Pointe-aux-Trembles, Montréal-Nord, and more), West Island, Laval, South Shore (Brossard, Longueuil, Boucherville, Saint-Bruno, etc.), North Shore (Terrebonne, Mascouche, Repentigny, Blainville, Sainte-Thérèse, etc.), Laurentides, Lanaudière, as well as Estrie, Montérégie and Mauricie. Bilingual FR/EN service available.
How long does a home inspection take?+
A pre-purchase inspection typically takes 3 to 4 hours on site for a single-family home, 2 to 3 hours for a condo, 4 to 6 hours for a 4-12 unit plex or multi-unit, and longer for commercial buildings or heritage properties. The complete report with photos is delivered within 24h*. Duration varies based on size, age, complexity and accessibility of building components.
What other home inspection services do you offer?+
We offer a complete range of inspection services: pre-purchase inspection (also called pre-buy inspection or buyer inspection), home inspection (house inspection), condo inspection (condominium, divided and undivided co-ownership, apartment), plex and multi-unit inspection (duplex, triplex, fourplex, rental property, multi-family, income property), commercial inspection, pre-sale inspection, new construction inspection, pre-delivery inspection, preventive inspection, common area inspection, hidden defect expertise, mold and air quality inspection, and thermography.
Our other services

Related
services.

🏠
Pre-purchase inspection
Complete inspection for buying a single-family home in Montreal.
View service →
🏬
Commercial inspection
Inspection of commercial, industrial and mixed-use buildings, including 5+ unit multi-residential buildings.
View service →
🏢
Condo inspection
Specialized inspection for condo units in Montreal.
View service →
Common defects found during multi-unit inspection

Shared systems
to watch.

For a duplex, triplex or quadruplex, some shared components between units deserve special attention. A few topics documented on our blog:

🔧
Cast iron main drains
Shared evacuation plumbing — a drain at end of life affects every unit.
Read article →
🧱
Stone foundations
Older residential stock in Plateau / Villeray / Rosemont — structural particularities.
Read article →
🏠
Flat roofs
Shared roof — its condition affects every unit and impacts maintenance costs.
Read article →
💧
Humidity and mold
Often observed in shared basements and units with deficient ventilation.
Read article →
🌬️
Mold investigation
In-depth investigation available as a separate service if suspicion is confirmed.
View service →
📋
Hidden defects — buyer guide
Especially relevant for multi-unit where hidden defects affect rental income.
Read article →
★★★★★

" He inspected every unit individually and the report was organized perfectly. Essential for any plex buyer. "

Verified Client · South Shore

Sample available on request

What your
report looks like.

Every inspection comes as a clear PDF report with photos, plain-language findings, and priority-ranked recommendations. Request a representative sample to review the report format before booking.

Request a sample report
Book now

Your offer has a deadline.
So does your inspection.

Available 7 days a week. Report organized by unit. InterNACHI certified. IBC Network.
Very tight deadline? See urgent home inspection (condition deadline).

📞 (514) 802-7215 Book my inspection →
✦ 5★ Google ✦ Thousands of inspections completed ✦ Certified and insured ✦ Detailed report within 24 to 48h*
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