Ontario wants to make landlords liable for preventing drug activity on their property

In this episode, Sandy MacKay introduces the new legislation impacting multifamily real estate, focusing on Ontario's proposed landlord drug liability law. The discussion highlights concerns from supportive housing providers, who worry about the implications for their operations. Sandy explores what constitutes reasonable measures for landlords under this law and discusses advocates' calls for the exemption of supportive housing from these requirements. The episode also delves into potential unintended consequences of the legislation, offering a comprehensive look at how these legal changes may affect the multifamily real estate landscape. Closing remarks wrap up the discussion, providing valuable insights for investors and stakeholders.

Episode Transcript

(00:00):
Have you ever wondered how new legislationcould impact your investments in multifamily

(00:03):
real estate?

Consider this (00:04):
Ontario's proposed landlord drug liability law is creating waves among
supportive housing providers.
Could this be a game-changer for multifamilyproperty owners?
Welcome to the Multifamily Real Estate InsightsPodcast.
I'm your host, Sandy MacKay.
Let's get right to it.

(00:25):
Today, we're diving into a controversial topicthat has been making headlines in Ontario.
A recent article by CBC News highlights a newproposed law that would make landlords in
Ontario liable for preventing drug activity ontheir properties.
This legislation, part of Bill 10, aims toenhance public safety by imposing fines or even

(00:46):
jail time on landlords whose properties areused for drug production or trafficking.
The law has been met with concern fromsupportive housing providers who fear it could
discourage them from housing individuals whoare struggling with addiction.
Fay Martin, founder of Places for People,expressed her apprehension, stating that the

(01:06):
legislation conflicts with her charity's goalsand could threaten its survival.
Jennifer Van Gennip from Redwood ParkCommunities echoed these concerns, noting a
chilling effect in the sector, with providerspreemptively evicting tenants who use drugs.
The law stipulates that landlords can defendthemselves by taking 'reasonable measures' to

(01:27):
prevent drug activity, but the lack of clarityon what constitutes reasonable measures is
causing anxiety among landlords.
John Fox, a Toronto-based lawyer specializingin affordable housing, emphasized the need for
guidance, questioning whether measures likeincreased CCTV monitoring or monthly
inspections might be required.

(01:49):
Advocates are urging the government to considerexempting supportive housing from this law,
arguing that their work directly contributes toreducing drug activity.
Marlene Coffey, CEO of the Ontario Non-profitHousing Association, hopes for more
consultations with the government to bringclarity and address concerns about personal
liability and financial implications fornon-profits.

(02:13):
While the intent of the legislation is toenhance public safety, it's crucial to consider
the potential unintended consequences,particularly for supportive housing providers
who play an essential role in the community.
The debate continues as stakeholders awaitfurther details from the government.
Thank you for listening to the Multifamily RealEstate Insights Podcast.

(02:34):
I'm your host, Sandy MacKay.
See you on the next one.