You've purchased your condo, picked a moving date and started packing. The moving company is booked, the boxes are ready, and you're counting down the days until you get your keys.
Then you find out your building doesn't allow moves on Sundays. Or that you were supposed to reserve the elevator a week ago.
Moving into an Ottawa condo can involve a few more steps than moving into a detached home, especially in larger buildings with shared elevators, loading areas and security.
Here's what you should know before moving day.
1. You Might Need to Reserve the Elevator
Many Ottawa condo buildings require residents to book an elevator before moving furniture, appliances or large quantities of boxes.
This allows property management to coordinate moves, protect the elevator interior and prevent residents from tying up elevators unexpectedly.
The amount of notice varies by building.
For example, Hudson Park in Ottawa requires elevator reservations at least five days in advance, while Petrie's Landing Tower II requires at least seven days.
And if another resident has already reserved your preferred time slot, you might need to rearrange your moving schedule.
Our advice? Confirm the building's moving procedures before committing to a date with your movers.
2. Moving Into a Condo Can Come With Additional Fees
Depending on the building, you may need to pay a moving fee, a refundable damage deposit or both.
These aren't necessarily included in your regular condo fees.
For example, Hudson Park's published moving policy lists a $75 weekday elevator reservation fee, a $105 weekend fee and a $200 refundable damage deposit.
Petrie's Landing Tower II lists a $175 non-refundable security service fee and a $500 refundable damage deposit.
Those are two very different arrangements within Ottawa.
The purpose of a damage deposit is generally to protect the condominium corporation against damage to shared property during your move.
Think scratched elevator walls, damaged doors or marks left in common hallways.
Before moving, ask what fees apply, how payment is accepted and what conditions need to be met to receive your deposit back.
3. You Might Not Be Allowed to Move on Weekends
Planning to move on a Sunday because that's when your friends are available to help?
Check the rules first.
Some condo buildings restrict moves to certain days and hours. Others allow weekend moves but charge different reservation fees.
At Petrie's Landing Tower II, for example, the published moving policy permits moves Monday through Saturday during designated time slots, but prohibits moves on Sundays and statutory holidays.
This can be especially inconvenient if your closing date falls just before a weekend or holiday.
Remember that your closing date and your actual moving date don't have to be the same day.
Sometimes arranging a move for the following weekday is the more practical option.
4. Where Is Your Moving Truck Supposed to Park?
This is particularly important in downtown Ottawa, where some condo buildings have limited loading space or entrances along busy streets.
Don't assume your moving company can simply park outside the front doors.
Some buildings have designated loading docks or service entrances, while others require movers to use a particular access route.
If your building doesn't have a suitable loading area, you'll need to investigate the parking restrictions on the surrounding streets.
The City of Ottawa notes that moving vehicles following existing parking regulations generally don't need an encroachment permit. However, vehicles requiring use of the public right-of-way beyond those regulations may need additional authorization.
Before booking your movers, confirm where the truck can legally stop, how long it can remain there and how furniture will get from the vehicle into your unit.
5. What About Deliveries After You've Moved In?
The moving rules may not end once you've unpacked.
Ordering a new couch, replacing your refrigerator or having furniture delivered could require another elevator reservation.
Some buildings distinguish between a full move and the delivery of a single large item.
For example, Hudson Park's published policy says residents must arrange elevator protection for certain large deliveries, although its standard moving reservation fee doesn't apply to a single-item delivery.
This is worth knowing if you're planning to furnish your new condo gradually or make improvements shortly after moving in.
What Should Ottawa Condo Buyers Ask Before Closing?
Once your purchase is confirmed, contact property management to understand the building's procedures.
We recommend asking:
How far in advance do I need to reserve the elevator?
Are moves permitted on weekends and holidays?
Are there moving fees or refundable deposits?
Where can my moving truck park?
Is there a designated loading entrance?
Do I need to register with management before moving in?
Are there restrictions on large furniture or appliance deliveries?
Your real estate lawyer should also review the condominium corporation's governing documents as part of the purchase process.
The Condominium Authority of Ontario explains how condominium rules govern day-to-day activities in shared residential properties.
The Bottom Line
Moving into a condo doesn't have to be complicated, but it does require a little more coordination.
The biggest mistake is assuming that your moving arrangements are entirely up to you.
A reserved elevator, a designated loading area and a few building-specific requirements can make a significant difference to how smoothly the day goes.
And if you're still shopping for a condo, it's worth paying attention to how the building operates before purchasing. The convenience of everyday deliveries, elevator access and visitor parking can matter long after moving day.
At New Purveyors, we help Ottawa condo buyers navigate more than just the purchase itself. From understanding building documents to planning for possession, our goal is to make sure you know what to expect from the property you're buying.
Looking for a condo in Ottawa? Connect with the New Purveyors team to explore your options.
