Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law

Hamilton City Council has approved a first-of-its-kind Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law, which will come into effect on January 1, 2025 to address bad faith evictions and protect tenants through new requirements for landlords who want to complete renovations where vacant possession of a unit is required.

Under the by-law, within seven days of issuing an N-13 notice for demolition, repair or renovation purposes, landlords must apply for a renovation licence from the City of Hamilton.

The cost of a renovation licence will be $715, with an annual renewal fee of $125.

The by-law applies to all rental units in the City of Hamilton. The implementation of this by-law will provide the City with insight into eviction notices issued to tenants to be able to offer tenants support where needed.

The new Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law, in combination with the Safe Apartment Buildings, City’s Property Standards and Vital Services By-laws, form the new Hamilton Apartment Rental Program. The Hamilton Apartment Rental Program aims to address unfair evictions, tenant displacement and property standards within the City of Hamilton.

Tenants

When the by-law comes into effect, tenants who have been issued an N-13 notice may connect with City staff to ensure that their landlord is in compliance with the Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law.

Until the by-law comes into effect, tenants facing bad faith eviction under the guise of a landlord requiring vacant possession to repair or renovate a unit are encouraged to contact the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB).

Landlords

Under the By-law, if a tenant must vacate their unit for repairs or renovations, intends to move back in, and has used their right to first refusal under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), landlords must either organize similar temporary housing or offer compensation. A landlord will be required to submit an application for a renovation licence, which will include:

• Completed application form
• Copy of N-13 Notice
• Proof of Building Permit
• Letter from a Qualified Professional indicating vacant possession is required
• Proof of arrangements with tenant

Charges and Fines

An individual or corporation charged under the Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law may be subject to fines, penalties or other orders.

Fines for non-compliance of the by-law range from $500 to $10,000 for an individual landlord and $500 to $50,000 for a corporation. Fine amounts are subject to approval by the Ministry of the Attorney General.

Register a By-law Complaint

Beginning January 2025 residents will be able to submit complaints specific to the Renovation Licence and Relocation By-law.