Can a buyer visit my property before closing in Ontario?

Yes, in most Ontario residential transactions buyers have a right to conduct one pre-closing inspection of the property, typically in the twenty-four hours before closing. This right is commonly included in standard form agreements or negotiated as a schedule to the APS.

The purpose is for the buyer to confirm that the property is in the same condition as when the offer was made — that no damage has occurred, that included appliances and fixtures are present, and that the home is ready for vacant possession. It is not a second home inspection or an opportunity to renegotiate.

If the buyer discovers at the pre-closing inspection that something is materially wrong — for example, a pipe burst after the offer was signed, or a fixture you agreed to leave has been removed — they can raise the issue with their lawyer and potentially delay closing until it is resolved. As a seller you should leave the home in excellent condition and ensure all included items are present before the pre-closing visit. Trying to block or refuse a pre-closing inspection that is written into the APS gives the buyer legal grounds to delay or dispute the transaction.