Brampton is cracking down on overcrowded rental units with new fines and occupancy limits, aiming to improve living conditions and safety for tenants. Landlords who exceed the new limits can now face steep financial penalties under updated property standards and non-parking fine bylaws.
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Stricter Occupancy Limits and Fines
Under the revised regulations, rental bedrooms must adhere to specific space requirements:
- A minimum of 14 square metres (150 square feet) is required for rooms housing three occupants.
- A minimum of 7 square metres (75 square feet) per person applies if four or more occupants share a room.
Landlords violating these new rules will face escalating fines:
- $500 for the first offence
- $750 for the second offence
- $1,000 for each subsequent violation
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Definition of Occupants & Special Provisions for Youth
According to the bylaw, an occupant is defined as any person aged 18 or older. However, for children and youth, the rental space must still comply with all other Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code regulations to ensure safety and well-being.
Addressing Overcrowding and Illegal Rentals
City officials say these measures respond to growing concerns about excessive subletting and unsafe housing conditions. Brampton aims to balance residents’ right to cohabitate while ensuring safety and health standards are maintained.
“This is part of a broader City initiative to address housing challenges and ensure reliable and safe housing for all,” the city stated in an official announcement.
Past and Ongoing Efforts to Improve Rental Conditions
This isn’t Brampton’s first step in tackling overcrowding. In 2022, the city introduced bylaws prohibiting landlords from converting common rooms into sleeping areas without proper permits. Further, landlords must obtain a building permit before making any modifications to rental spaces.
Additionally, in 2023, Brampton launched a rental licensing program requiring landlords renting four or fewer units in Wards 1, 3, 4, 5, and 7 to register their properties or face fines up to $600.
Potential Ban on New Secondary Suites
Brampton City Council is also considering a ban on new basement suites and accessory rental units (ARUs) to combat unsafe rental conditions. Some councillors have voiced concerns about international students being forced into substandard housing, describing it as “slum landlord conditions.”
With these new regulations and potential future measures, Brampton is taking an aggressive stance against overcrowded and illegal rentals, ensuring safer and more sustainable housing for all residents.
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