The answer

Do not enter merely because the contract time has arrived or keys are physically nearby. Key release should follow the transaction's legal possession authorization and the communication process used by the lawyers and transaction representatives. Confirm the exact date and time, who authorizes release, where keys and codes are held, and the after-hours fallback.

Calgary-specific context

Condo elevator windows, loading docks, parking, fob pickup, locksmiths, cleaners, deliveries, movers, winter weather, remote travel, and a linked sale can all fail if they are booked as though possession authorization is guaranteed to be instantaneous.

What to do next

Put legal authorization, transaction confirmation, key location, codes, building access, movers, trades, and backup accommodation on one timeline; prohibit entry and work before authorization.

Related guides

buyer guideCalgary Key Release and Possession Authorization GuideSeparate contract possession time, transfer of funds, legal authorization, transaction communication, key location, codes, after-hours access, movers, locksmiths, cleaners, deliveries, and the fallback when authorization or keys are delayed.Interactive toolCalgary Closing and Possession PlannerPlan Calgary closing and possession readiness across lawyer file, cash to close, insurance, utilities, walkthrough, condo move-in rules, RPR/title items, keys, movers, sale proceeds, and post-possession repairs.buyer guidePossession Day CalgaryCalgary closing and possession page for keys, funds, walkthroughs, utilities, insurance, and legal timing.Decision playbookCalgary Real Estate Closing and Possession PlaybookCalgary Real Estate Closing and Possession Playbook for Calgary buyers, sellers, move-up households, condo owners, new-build purchasers, investors, and relocating households moving from a firm contract through legal closing, possession authorization, keys, and the first month: Turn the firm contract into a dated control file so legal work, funds, title, insurance, property condition, moving logistics, and key release reach possession without preventable surprises.

Verify before relying

Official sources for this topic

These sources explain the rules and records relevant to this topic. Check the current requirements for your property.

RECA consumer informationAlberta real estate consumer guidance.Alberta residential tenancy informationRead the current official guidance and confirm what applies to your property.Alberta King's PrinterOfficial Alberta legislation source for source-linked legal topics.

Check the current information at the linked source. Ask the appropriate professional how it applies to your property.

Important

Real estate rules, market conditions, property records, taxes, financing terms, bylaws, and physical conditions can change. Verify time-sensitive and property-specific facts with current official sources and the appropriate qualified professional before acting.