B.C. limits rent increases but tenants’ group wants more protections

As of January, the rent hike will be limited to 2.5 percent.

The task force is expected to release a final report with more recommendations aimed at balancing the needs of renters and landlords.

The province has closed a loophole that allowed landlords to evict tenants while renovations were underway but the Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre say returning renters could still be charged more under a new tenancy agreement.

“We recognize supply is key to bringing down rental costs in the long term, but renters have told us they are hurting and need help today,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “That’s why we are taking careful steps to address the housing crisis and ease the pressure on renters, while also making sure that landlords have the tools they need to continue to invest in their rental properties.”

The BC Government Employees Union is applauding the provincial government’s decision to cap annual rent increases only to inflation.

The union says there is no solution to the housing affordability crisis that doesn’t include rental affordability — so it’s pleased the N-D-P has changed the formula set by the previous Liberal government that set the increase at inflation plus two percent.

Green party Leader Andrew Weaver says he’s delighted the move will mean renters will see some relief next year.

But the Liberals call the change a policy failure right out of the gate — saying landlords will have no incentive to maintain and renovate ageing housing stock in Vancouver and Victoria, and what the province really needs to address the housing crisis is more action to boost supply.

(The Canadian Press)

by Canadian Press / CKPGToday

B.C. limits rent increases but tenants’ group wants more protections

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