City Of Windsor Considering Regulation Of Rental Properties

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The City of Windsor is looking for feedback about potentially regulating rental residential properties.

They’re looking to hear from those interested in or impacted by licensing regulations for residential rental properties with one to four units.

City Council recently directed City of Windsor administration to create a framework for a two-year pilot study in wards 1 and 2, led by the Licensing and By-Law Enforcement department.

They say the study could be of particular interest to both homeowners and renters locally, as well as residential landowners and landlords.

Ward 2 Councillor Fabio Costante says they’re looking for input from all stakeholders regarding what the City is calling a potential Residential Rental Licence, or RRL.

“The intent of an RRL is primarily tenant safety and ensuring that all parties are playing by the rules,” said Costante. “As housing demands continue to grow in our community, we must do our part in establishing a framework that provides accountability and better enforceability of our building and fire codes.”

He says the RRL is a step in that direction, and the pilot study will help City Council to make a decision on implementing a citywide by-law in the future.

Ward 1 Councillor Fred Francis says the pilot project is the next step in the City’s attempts to “strengthen our neighbourhoods and ensure all landlords/tenants adhere to City property standards and by-laws.”

“Public feedback is crucial to the project’s overall implementation and success,” Francis said.

The City says key elements of the study include issues with residential rental housing, possible regulatory solutions, and comments and concerns about the proposed licensing framework.

The survey will be available from October 19th to November 9th, 2021, on the surveys page of CityWindsor.ca. Individuals can also request a physical copy of the survey by contacting 311.

Once the survey is completed, the City will present a pilot study licensing by-law at a future meeting of council for consideration.

They say specific questions or requests should be directed to Craig Robertson, Deputy Licensing Commissioner, (519) 255-6100 ext. 6869 by phone or [email protected] by email.