Seller is not obliged to sanitize property

The COVID-19 pandemic has me concerned about my upcoming move into a home that was previously occupied. Is the seller obligated to have the property cleaned and sanitized before I take possession?

First, congratulations on your home purchase!

There is currently no government or public health directive that requires homes be professionally cleaned and sanitized before new owners take possession. That said, good for you for taking a safety-first approach in preparing for your move.

Unless professional cleaning was included as a condition within the agreement of purchase and sale (APS), the seller is typically expected to present the home in what some in the industry refer to as “broomswept condition.” Broom swept, or broom clean, condition typically includes sweeping or vacuuming the floors, removing garbage, emptying cupboards, clearing closets and the refrigerator (if one is included) and clearing the property of any personal belongings.

As well as being common courtesy to leave a property tidy for the new buyer, nobody wants to get rid of stuff left behind by others. If a seller thinks, “Maybe they’ll want this,” they should ask the buyer beforehand.

Refer to your Agreement of Purchase and Sale regarding the condition you can expect the home is to be left in. If you are unsure, ask your salesperson for clarification.

If you still prefer to have your new home professional cleaned, there are a number of companies that offer cleaning services in line with the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations.

I recommend speaking with your sales rep — they can often refer a service provider for such jobs. Just remember, unless otherwise negotiated and specified, the cost of the cleaning will be your responsibility, and likely cannot take place until after your deal has closed.

Public health agencies have identified several high-contact areas and surfaces that present the highest risk of contamination.

These include doorknobs, handrails, light switches, cabinet handles, faucet handles and countertops.

Should you decide to clean your new place yourself, public health officials have released guidance on cleaning and disinfecting of public settings that you may find to be a helpful reference. Some of the recommendations include that people wear gloves while cleaning, ensure the cleaning area is well ventilated and use disinfecting cleaning products, as directed, to ensure their effectiveness. More information and guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada regarding cleaning and disinfecting during COVID-19 can be found on Canada.ca.

Please carefully consider the risks associated with virus transmission and the advice provided by public health to take appropriate precautions — including cleaning — to help protect against COVID-19. I wish you a safe and healthy move to your new home.