On September 1, 2017, new tenant protections came into effect as part of Ontario’s Rental Fairness Act.
From now on, when a landlord evicts a tenant in order to use the unit for themselves or a family member, they are required to give the tenant one month’s rent as compensation or offer the tenant another comparable rental unit.
Landlords are also required to indicate to the Landlord and Tenant Board that they require the unit for at least one year and are acting in ‘good faith’. If a landlord rents, advertises, demolishes, or converts the unit in question within a year of the eviction they can face a fine of up to $25, 000.00. According to Geordie Dent, executive director of the Federation of Metro Tenants’ Associations, these new changes will “disincentive landlords from acting illegally’.
However, these changes have not been met with universal praise. Jim Murphy, president of the Federation of Rental-Housing Providers of Ontario believes that the restrictions imposed by these new rules will see investors step away from the rental market because it is not worth the trouble. Small landlords and condominiums will be significantly impacted, said Murphy.
Our team of lawyers have extensive experience appearing before administrative tribunals such as the Landlord and Tenant Board. Whether you are a tenant who believes they are being improperly evicted, or a landlord who has concerns related to the conduct of its tenants, Daniel & Partners will help you resolve the issue in a careful and professional manner.
Follow this link for more information on the Rental Fairness Act.
Written by Karen Shedden, NCA Candidate
