3 new laws property managers should be ready for this July

July brings a few important legal updates that could affect Ontario property managers, landlords, and tenants. Here's what you need to know:

1. Toronto’s Rental Renovation Licence

Starting July 31, Toronto landlords must obtain a Rental Renovation Licence before issuing an N13 notice for evicting tenants.

This bylaw, modeled after a successful Hamilton policy, ensures tenants are not unfairly displaced during bad faith “renovations”.

To qualify, landlords must:

• Get permits and proof from a licensed architect or engineer that the unit needs to be vacant

• Notify tenants, offer temporary housing or rent-gap payments, and give them the right to return at the same rent post-renovation

• Pay three months' worth of rent-gap severance if tenants choose not to return

Toronto building inspectors will enforce compliance, with penalties incurring fines up to $100,000.

This bylaw protects renters and preserves affordable housing in a city where low-cost units are becoming harder to find. For property managers, it means more oversight when handling N13 notices. If a landlord client is planning renovations, make sure they understand the licensing steps and the tenant protections involved.

2. Gig workers guaranteed minimum wage

As of July 1, rideshare and delivery drivers in Ontario – working for platforms like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash – are entitled to $17.20 per hour for active time, which includes only the time between accepting and completing a trip.

Many people, renters included, supplement their income with gig work. With stronger wage protections in place, these workers may find it a bit easier to make ends meet – and pay rent on time and in full.

3. Canada Disability Benefit rolls out

The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) starts delivering payments this month and could be a lifeline for many Ontario renters living with disabilities.

Eligible low-income Canadians aged 18 to 64 who applied by June 30 will begin receiving up to $200 per month ($2,400 annually) to help with daily expenses. This is part of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan and targets over 600,000 Canadians.

People with disabilities are statistically more likely to rent and to experience housing insecurity. The CDB could provide welcome financial relief, helping these tenants cover essential costs like rent, utilities, and groceries.

More regulation headlines

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