Moving Into or Out of a Condo: Elevators, Fees and Building Rules

For a condo or apartment move, book the elevator and loading area as early as you can, ask the property manager about rules, fees and insurance, and protect shared spaces. Many buildings have set move hours and limits, and a missed booking can delay or even cancel your move. The names change across the country, a condo corporation in Ontario, a strata in British Columbia, a syndicate of co-owners in Quebec, but the questions are the same.

Who do I contact first?

Your property manager, concierge or strata manager. Ask as soon as you know your move date, for both the building you are leaving and the one you are entering. The building’s bylaws or rules set the details.

What should I ask?

• How do I book the elevator and loading area, and how far ahead?
• Are there move-in or move-out hours, and are weekends or holidays restricted?
• Is there a move-in fee or refundable deposit? Fees and limits are set by building rules and, in some provinces, by law.
• Do you require proof of insurance from the movers? Many buildings do.
• Where can the truck park, and for how long? Does the street need a permit?
• Are there rules about protecting hallways and elevator walls?

How do I prepare?

• Reserve the elevator for a block of time that fits the move.
• Measure large furniture against the elevator and doorways in advance.
• Clear the hallway and loading area, and keep the path open.
• Have your building fob, keys and parking details ready for the crew.

Our crew uses blankets and floor protection in hallways and elevators, and tells you when a space needs extra care.

How does a condo move differ from a house move?

Time in the elevator is limited, parking can be tight and carries can be long, especially in downtown towers in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary. That can raise the hours on an hourly quote, so plan the loading sequence and pack ahead. Long carries and extra flights of stairs may cost more; see our pricing page.

What about the move-out?

Check your lease or the building rules for cleaning and key return, take photos of the unit and common areas, and book your final walkthrough. If you rent, see giving notice to your landlord for the rules in your province.

Tips for a smooth day

• Book the elevator for a weekday if you can.
• In Quebec, book very early for the days around July 1, when many buildings have several moves at once.
• Tell neighbours about the move to keep the path clear.
• Check that the elevator is in service mode and the pads are up before loading starts.
• Review the moving day checklist.

Moving soon?

Tell us the building and the street when you request a quote so we can plan parking and the carry.