A new municipal by-law aimed at protecting tenants from renovation-related evictions comes into effect this week.
Chatham-Kent’s Rental Renovation Licence By-law was approved by council on June 22 in response to complaints raised by tenants living at Terrace Forty Apartments in Chatham, who were served with notices to vacate their units earlier this year.
The new by-law requires landlords to obtain a licence before evicting a tenant for the purpose of major repairs or renovations that would require the rental unit to be vacant.
While this will not prevent reasonable renovations to rental units, municipal officials said the licence will provide a local accountability measure when renovations require a tenant to leave.
“This licensing model enhances transparency and accountability while avoiding duplication of provincial processes,” said Nancy Havens, CK’s Manager of Licensing Services, in a news release. “The by-law provides a clear framework for renovation-related tenant displacement and helps ensure all parties understand the requirements and protections that apply.”
The by-law will take effect on Thursday.
For more information about the by-law, such as eligibility requirements, application forms, fees and tenant information, click here.