If you’re selling your home, you’ve probably wondered: Can I record buyers during showings?
The short answer: Yes — but with some important caveats.
Our team of Milton real estate agents are asked this frequently, and while we always include cameras at our listings, it’s important to understand the nuances of laws and local by-laws
Understanding the Legal Side of Recording Showings
In Ontario (and throughout most of Canada), it’s legal to record video on your property without consent, provided there’s no expectation of privacy — meaning cameras in common areas like entryways, driveways, or living rooms should be fine.
However, audio recording is a different story. Recording conversations without consent can violate privacy laws. So, if you use cameras inside the house and intend to record audio, ensure visitors are aware of the recording. Even though it’s private property, a court may side with a visitor; given the type of visit occurring, it’s reasonable to believe that an expectation of privacy is due to the visitors.
Why Visible Indoor Cameras Are a Bad Idea
While it’s legal to record video, that doesn’t mean it’s wise to have obvious cameras throughout your home.
Visible indoor cameras — especially in areas like the living room, bedrooms, or kitchen — will make buyers feel uncomfortable and less able to picture themselves living there.
Buying a home is an emotional experience, and when visitors feel “watched,” they’re less likely to linger or develop a genuine connection to the space.
Pro Tip: If you already have cameras inside your home, consider turning them off or repositioning them during showings.
The Courtesy of Disclosure
Even though sellers aren’t required to announce that a property is being recorded, it’s considered best practice — and professional courtesy — to do so.
At The Kormendy Trott Team, among the many real estate listing services we include when listing your home for sale, along with the wireless camera we install, we include a friendly notice with all showing approvals to let visiting agents know that recording devices may be present. This creates transparency and prevents uncomfortable surprises during the visit.
Why We Install Exterior Cameras at Our Listings
Originating as top real estate agents in Milton, Ontario, to now covering the GTA and much of the Golden Horseshoe, we’ve refined our processes and services over the years. Adding, removing, and testing services all the time. But one staple in our arsenal of real estate selling services is installing a temporary wireless Wi-Fi camera on the porch of every listing –assuming there’s a wifi connection and it’s not a condominium where condo bylaws or rules and regulations restrict us.
Here’s why it’s one of the most valuable (and underrated) tools in our system:
Candid Feedback
When searching for a great realtor near you, they will all claim to collect feedback. Realistically, however, the feedback is generic or never arrives. The camera, however, captures buyers’ unfiltered reactions as they arrive and leave — often the most honest feedback you’ll ever get. A subtle eye roll, an excited smile, or a quick comment can reveal more than any written showing note.
Know When Visitors Leave
You’ll always know when the showing ends, so you can safely return home without interruption.
Added Security
An exterior camera acts as both a visual record and a deterrent. Whether it’s keeping tabs on front-door activity or identifying unexpected guests, it adds peace of mind.
Preventing Rule Violations
We caught real estate agents violating industry rules — including one instance where a REALTOR® allowed clients to enter a property unsupervised (a major RECO violation).
Fortunately, they were caught in the act. We were able to have somebody get to the property before the visitors left, and the homeowner filed a formal complaint with RECO.
Striking the Right Balance
The goal isn’t to spy — it’s to protect your home, ensure accountability, and gain genuine insights from buyer visits.
Used responsibly, recording can be a powerful tool that enhances both your selling experience and security.Â
FAQ: Recording Buyers During Home Showings
Can I record people viewing my home?
Yes. You can record video (not audio) in areas where visitors don’t expect privacy — such as your entryway, driveway, or front porch.
Should I tell buyers they’re being recorded?
While not legally required, it’s strongly recommended as a courtesy. Your agent can include this notice when confirming showings.
What about indoor security cameras?
Visible indoor cameras can make buyers uncomfortable and harm your sale. Keep them off or limit recording to entry areas only.
Is it okay to record audio conversations during a showing?
This is a grey area when it comes to recording visitors. Generally speaking, recording audio outside, at the front door, would be acceptable. However, indoor recording may violate privacy laws under Canada’s federal privacy legislation. Either way, disclosure is recommended.
Can my camera footage be used to file a complaint against a REALTOR®?
Yes. If footage reveals professional misconduct (e.g., unauthorized access or unsafe behaviour), you can file a complaint with RECO (Real Estate Council of Ontario) using the video as evidence.
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Final Thoughts
Recording buyer visits is absolutely legal — but like most tools, it’s all about how you use it.
A discreet, exterior camera gives you candid insights, extra security, and peace of mind — without invading anyone’s privacy or sabotaging your showing experience.
At The Kormendy Trott Team, it’s just one more way we go the extra mile to protect our clients and deliver an exceptional selling experience.
