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Ontario Proposes New Legislation Regarding Renovictions, Increased Rights for Tenants

Ontario government introduces legislation targeting renovictions

The Ontario government is looking to make some changes impacting renters and landlords.

The province has proposed legislation that would require a landlord to move into the unit by a specific date if they're evicting a tenant to use the property themselves. 

As well, landlords who evict a tenant to do renovations would have to give them a 60 day grace period to move back in and show proof that the unit must be vacant for the work to be done. 

Landlords would also have to update tenants on the status of the renovation if they plan to return.

"Today’s announcement builds on the record number of rental housing starts that have occurred in recent years thanks to the actions our government has taken," said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. "We know this record is being challenged by external economic factors, but we will continue to take actions that lay the groundwork for long-term housing supply growth. Meanwhile, our government is also taking real steps to make life easier, stabler and more predictable for tenants and landlords alike."

The bill would also give a tenant the right to make a repayment agreement with their landlord if their rent is in arrears.

The proposed changes also include giving tenants more rights to install air conditioning. 

In addition, the province is pledging $6.5 million to hire 40 additional adjudicators to the Landlord and Tenant Board. 

Attorney General Doug Downey says the hirings will help the board operate more efficiently and address backlogs brought on by the pandemic. 

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