Reference # Vs. Legal Unit # Vs. Municipal Address in Pre-Construction
This comes up a lot with pre-construction properties, because buyers often don’t realize there are several different numbers/addresses across purchase agreements and documents, and it can get confusing.
Here’s the breakdown:
1. Reference Number = Internal Identifier
Not a legal identifier - it’s just an internal organizational tool for the builder’s sales office
Helps the developer track your unit in their system before the condo plan is approved with the municipality and a legal address is assisgned
Can be a simple lot number, suite number, or even a code tied to the floorplan type.
Example: Arthur Condos Suite #520
2. Legal Unit Number = Birth Certificate Name
The official official legal identity recorded at the Land Titles office
Found in documents like the Disclosure Statement or later in the registered condo plan once construction is complete.
This is the number lawyers, land titles offices, and lenders will rely on for closing.
Example: Unit 102, Level 5, Calgary Condominium Plan 2412567
3. Municipal Address = Mailing Address on the Door
The civic mailing address assigned by the city (what Canada Post and Google Maps will recognize).
Not finalized until just before closing when the city registers and approves the addresses.
Example: 2365-44 Skyview Parkway NE, Calgary, AB T3N 0V4
In Summary:
Reference Number = builder’s internal tracking tool.
Legal Unit Number = your unit’s official designation in legal/land records.
Municipal Address = the everyday street address recognized by the city.
Contact me if you have questions.
