Do I have to tell buyers about the foggy windows in my house?

Yes, you're legally required to disclose known defects like foggy windows when selling your home in Ontario. This falls under your duty to provide honest disclosure about the property's condition.

Foggy windows indicate failed window seals, which means the insulating gas between the panes has escaped and moisture has entered. This significantly reduces the window's energy efficiency and is considered a material defect that affects the property's value and performance. Under Ontario's real estate disclosure requirements, sellers must reveal known issues that could influence a buyer's decision or affect the property's habitability and energy costs.

From a practical standpoint, buyers will likely notice foggy windows during their inspection anyway. Being upfront about the issue builds trust and allows you to control the narrative. You can explain what you know about the problem, when it started, and whether you've obtained any repair estimates. This transparency often works better than having buyers discover the issue themselves and wonder what else might be hidden.

In Ottawa's climate, failed window seals are a significant concern because they drastically reduce insulation value during our cold winters. Energy-conscious buyers will definitely want to know about this issue since window replacement can cost $400-800 per window for standard vinyl units, or $600-1,200 for premium triple-pane replacements.

Consider getting a professional assessment before listing to understand the full scope of the problem and potential costs. This information helps you price appropriately and shows buyers you're being thorough. You might even choose to replace the most visible foggy windows before listing to improve your home's appeal.

For a professional evaluation of your window condition and replacement options, request a quote from Ottawa Window Pros to understand your options and costs.