Whether you're actively looking to buy a house or simply
curious about a property listed for sale, an "Open House"
sign may be the invite you were looking for to walk through a
property. Aside from possibly straining your neck while doing a
double-take at a questionable choice of décor, hopefully you
won't experience any injuries while on your tour of the home.
But what if you do?
Occupiers' Liability
Property owners should be aware and understand that if someone
is injured on their property, regardless of being invited or not,
they may be liable for that injury – particularly if there is
a hazard or unsafe condition on the property.
However, a property owner may not be the only person who bears
responsibility for and control over the condition of premises, or
the activities carried thereon. There is a duty to take
"reasonable care" to ensure a visitor's safety while
they are on the property. Ontario's Occupiers'
Liability Act includes a definition of
