Residential Tenancies Act Takes Effect January 31, 2007

Balanced Protection For Tenants And Landlords

For Immediate Release
October 20, 2006

QUEEN’S PARK – Legislation that will provide balanced protection to tenants and landlords while keeping our rental housing market strong takes effect January 31, 2007, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing John Gerretsen said today.

“The Residential Tenancies Act implements a fair rental housing system that benefits good tenants and good landlords,” said Gerretsen. “We are building stronger communities that offer a range of housing choices to meet the diverse needs of Ontarians.”

Once proclaimed, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 will eliminate the current unfair eviction process, ensure fairer rent increases for tenants, help landlords protect their investment and encourage a healthy investment climate. To reflect a new mandate of enhanced customer service and accessibility, the Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal becomes the Landlord and Tenant Board.

Information about the act, the Landlord and Tenant Board and service fee reductions will be available at all Service Ontario outlets, Ontario Rental Housing Tribunal Offices, Publications Ontario and online at www.mah.gov.on.ca by clicking on Residential Tenancies.

“We are ushering in a new era of tenant and landlord relations characterized by fairness and accessibility,” added Gerretsen. “The Residential Tenancies Act will provide tenants and landlords the protection they need to ensure that Ontario’s rental housing system works for everyone.”

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• Backgrounder: Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

Contact:

Sonya Rolfe
Market Housing Branch
416-585-7398