Following Solo’s presentation to The Finance Committee a final report has been issued arising out of pre-budget consultations.
SOLO is mentioned on page 34 in the section dealing with Rental Affordability and Regulation. No specific recommendations were made about financial compensation or the Landlords and Tenants Board. Nevertheless, the committee – with members from all three parties – are more aware of the issues.
Rental Affordability and Regulation
Several witnesses suggested changes to rules for rental properties. Many stakeholders made the case that rent control should be in place to limit landlords’ ability to increase rates between tenancies.
The Parkdale Neighbourhood Land Trust (PNLT) contended that landlords are currently incentivised to push out long-term tenants in order to generate increased revenues. The PNLT also recommended prohibiting Above-Guideline Rent Increases under the Residential Tenancy Act that are for renovations not primarily benefiting, or requested by, tenants. Stakeholders also proposed the introduction of a rental relief program.
The Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario recommended a program consisting of grants and loans accessible to households of all income levels, similar to initiatives introduced in the United States and British Columbia. Some advocates specifically suggested expansion of the Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit program, which currently provides a direct, monthly benefit to eligible households to help pay their rent.
To address challenges faced by renters during the pandemic, the Toronto Raging Grannies directed the government to prohibit evictions during this time.
The Small Ownership Landlords of Ontario described how the pandemic was negatively affecting their members as well and requested financial assistance for small landlords who are unable to collect unpaid rent from tenants impacted by the pandemic.
