COVID-19 Update & Revision: Open Houses
On October 4th, 2021, Nova Scotia entered phase 5 of the reopening plan and began requiring proof of full vaccination for certain events and activities.
REVISION: Proof of Vaccination at Open Houses
The Commission recently communicated that open houses would be an example of an activity that required proof of vaccination as it was an event hosted by an organized business that invited members of the public to attend.
We have been provided additional clarification from the provincial government and proof of vaccination is not required for open houses per Nova Scotia's Proof of Full Vaccination Policy as open houses are not held in indoor public spaces. The government also confirmed that masking is not mandatory for private viewings or open houses but they recommend that masks continue to be worn in these environments.
It is still important for licensees to have conversations with their clients about COVID-19 safety measures. Clients may request that licensees, consumers, inspectors, etc. who enter their home provide proof of vaccination, wear masks or gloves, sanitize, etc. Licensees must follow the lawful instruction of their clients.
Notice for Consumers
Consumers should be aware that private viewings and open houses do not require proof of vaccination per the government's Proof of Full Vaccination Policy. You can ask if the seller has instructed their licensee that proof of vaccination is required for anyone entering the property for a specific open house.
Proof of Full Vaccination
Students writing their licensing exams are required to provide proof of vaccination, in addition to continued masking, social distancing and sanitizing. For the full bulletin on providing proof for exams, click HERE.
Everyone visiting the Commission office is required to provide proof of full vaccination. This is in addition to completing the COVID-19 screening declaration, masking, social distancing and sanitizing. Access to the office is by appointment only.
For more information on proof of full vaccination, the Nova Scotia government has released a Proof of Full Vaccination Guide for Businesses and Organizations.
Brokers who wish to implement a proof of vaccination policy for their staff and/or clients and customers may do so and should review the province's full policy and speak to legal counsel.
Staying Safe
At this time, the Nova Scotia Government does not specifically address the real estate industry in their list of places that requires proof of full vaccination. However, licensees should keep in mind that trading in real estate may involve meeting with multiple groups of people, conducting meetings, viewings or open houses indoors, and traveling across the province, all of which could increases the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Licensees and consumers must follow the public health measures as required by the government and may continue to follow them as safety precautions even as we move forward to "living with COVID-19."
COVID-19 Resources
The Commission is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 orders, directives and guidelines from the government. We will continue to communicate with the industry as information is made available.
