Reserve fund study, condition inspection, maintenance logbook, asset management plan, divided or undivided co-ownership— the world of condominiums is filled with technical terms that can make it difficult to navigate. For example, the concepts of a logbook and a maintenance calendar are often used interchangeably, even though their meanings remain unclear for many people. Watch our video capsule, where our condominium specialists clearly explain what a maintenance logbook is and how it works.

What exactly is the condominium maintenance logbook
A maintenance logbook is an essential management and planning tool that helps ensure the long-term durability of a building. To standardize its use, regulations specify minimum requirements regarding its content, format, the professionals authorized to prepare and review it, and the frequency of updates.

Minimum required content of the logbook
The logbook must present a complete overview of the building and its components. It includes, among other elements:

• A detailed inventory of materials, systems, and equipment found in the common areas.
• A similar inventory for private portions when their maintenance is the responsibility of the condominium corporation.
• A section on the condition of each component, recording observations on the state of the identified materials and equipment. This section also includes an estimate of their remaining useful life, covering a minimum period of 25 years.

In addition to storing various documents such as contracts and recording completed work, the logbook helps plan medium- and long-term maintenance activities, promoting a proactive approach to condominium management.

Authorized professionals
The law strictly regulates who is authorized to prepare and review the maintenance logbook. These responsibilities are limited to members of certain professional orders:

• the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (engineers),
• the Ordre des évaluateurs agréés du Québec (chartered appraisers),
• the Ordre des architectes du Québec (architects), or
• the Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (professional technologists).

Relying on these experts ensures the reliability of the information contained in the logbook and its compliance with legal requirements.

Updating and reviewing the logbook
The maintenance logbook must be updated at least once a year by the board of directors. Ideally, every new maintenance action or repair should be recorded immediately to ensure accurate tracking.

As for the formal review, it must be conducted by a qualified professional at least every five years. However, some condominiums may be granted an extended deadline of up to ten years if they meet at least one of the following conditions:

• The building contains no more than eight private units (excluding parking spaces and storage areas).
• There are no common areas located inside a building (e.g., only exterior shared spaces).
• The building has no more than three above-ground storeys.

Deadlines for obtaining the logbook
Regulations also establish deadlines for obtaining the maintenance logbook and the reserve fund study. Existing condominiums have three years from the regulation’s effective date—August 14, 2025—to comply. For new condominiums, these documents must be provided directly by the developer within 30 days following the special transition meeting.

A key tool for effective condominium management
The maintenance logbook is an essential tracking and management tool that helps ensure the proper upkeep and long-term sustainability of a co-owned building.

If you have questions about condominium management, feel free to contact us. Our specialists are here to support you and help simplify the management of your property.