London’s renoviction bylaw closer to reality but without the heft some tenants want [Video]

A London city council committee approved a new renoviction bylaw Monday that would see landlords pay fees ahead of construction projects to discourage unethical evictions. 

The trouble is, tenant advocacy groups say the new rules don’t go far enough to protect them from homelessness. 

The bylaw would require landlords to obtain a $600 licence for renovations and they must start construction within six months of obtaining a permit. The must have a letter from a professional affirming that the work is necessary. Tenants must also be given an N13 notice that includes an information package explaining their rights.

The penalties for not complying with the rules range from $1,000 to $2,500. 

Tenants’ advocacy groups took issue at the meeting sitting in the public gallery with placards and flags, and staging a protest outside city hall.