A purchaser should assess the environmental risks associated with a property being purchased. In Canada, government o"cials do not “certify” that a property is free from such risks. A property’s environmental status can be ascertained by inspecting applicable company and public records. In virtually all cases, a purchaser will want to do an “environmental audit” of the property which may include conducting scienti!c testing and a technical analysis of the property. Lending institutions often require such an audit before advancing any funds. Development Controls Property development is provincially regulated, primarily at the municipal level. Municipalities typically control land use and the density.
