How to Get a Condo or Co-op Inspection in NYC

Buying a condo or co-op in NYC? Then you need more than a standard home inspection — you need a smart, tailored approach that accounts for both your unit and the building it lives in.

What Makes Condo/Co-op Inspections Different

• Shared systems – HVAC, plumbing, and electrical are often shared.

• Shared walls, floors and ceilings – What others around you do impacts your unit.

• Board documents – Buyers should review board minutes, budgets, and reserve funds once access is granted.

• Limited inspector access – Inspectors may not be allowed into other units.

What to Inspect Inside Your Unit

• Plumbing and water pressure

• Visible mold or water stains

• Flooring, ceilings, and walls

• Windows and HVAC units (if included)

• Appliances and electrical outlets

What to Inspect Outside Your Unit

• Check the condition and quality of common areas

• Ask about the maintenance history and frequency of common areas and shared services

• Ask or check if the building has any outstanding or previous violations and their severity

• Review and ask about compliance with fire codes and/or fire department inspections

• Check for any new developments or construction around the building

Check for Sound Issues

Shared buildings may have sound issues from a variety of sources. While building codes are updating to include new sound dampening protections, they're not always enough for a truly quiet home. Older buildings or more affordable construction practices lack soundproofing entirely. Here's what to look out for:

• Check for footsteps from upstairs neighbors

• Beware of vibrations from washer/dryers in other units (and inversely, noise from your W/D)

• Check for noise intrusions around doors and door materials, especially to common areas or hallways

• AC units or Heat pumps can cause vibrating noises from roofs if not installed correctly (without dampening)

• Ask about

How AI Inspections Help

Tools like Pocket Punchlist help you:

• Capture and analyze your unit in minutes

• Analyze common areas and exterior facades, roofs and foundations

• Spot visible issues before involving a human inspector

• Document the condition before closing