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Halton Region Drops Mask Mandates - Impact On Real Estate Services


  • March 21, 2022

We have an important update regarding real estate services and COVID-19 mandates in the Halton Region. Originally, Halton Region was set to drop masking requirements at the end of April. However, Halton's regional council met over the weekend and elected to adopt the province's timeline for dropping mask mandates, effective immediately.

This means as of today, March 21st, 2022, masks and physical distancing will no longer be required in real estate brokerages and during public open houses. In addition, real estate brokerages are not required to have safety plans in place related to COVID-19.

Looking ahead, Ontario’s policy is shifting to managing COVID-19 for the long term. While the risk remains, some REALTORS® and/or brokerages may still choose to have safety measures in place to protect themselves, their clients, and the public.

Frequently asked questions:

If I host an open house, can I require masks to be worn inside and insist on physical distancing after mandates are lifted?

Yes. A REALTOR® can insist that any open house they organize will require masking and physical distancing.

OMDREB members should speak candidly with clients about their comfort levels in visiting homes or opening their home to potential buyers. Have a very clear dialogue about comfort levels relating to showings and document the requirements in writing for both yourself and your clients. Do your best to accommodate any needs they articulate that are above and beyond the current public health guidelines.

Can a brokerage continue to maintain a mask and/or general COVID-19 policy after mandates are lifted?

Yes. However, brokerages should be mindful that if a visitor is unable to adhere to your policy for a valid medical reason, alternate arrangements will need to be made (e.g., conducting a meeting via phone call or Zoom, meeting virtually or outdoors while physically distanced, etc.)