The Rental Renovation Licence Bylaw requires landlords to obtain a licence before starting repairs or renovations that require tenants to move out of their rental units under the Provincial N13 process (under the Residential Tenancies Act). To obtain a licence, owners and operators (i.e. landlords) must comply with the bylaw requirements, including notifying tenants of the licence application, agreeing on arrangements for the tenant’s temporary alternate accommodation during the period of the renovations or instead making monthly rent-gap payments to the tenant if the tenant is returning to the unit, or paying compensation if the tenant has chosen not to return
The bylaw is designed to protect tenants from bad faith evictions, preserve Toronto’s affordable rental housing and establish a transparent and equitable process for landlords to be licensed to carry out repairs or renovations that require the tenant to vacate their unit.
This webpage provides information on how the bylaw works, what landlords and tenants need to know and the steps required to comply. You’ll find details on licensing requirements and resources for support.
This page does not cover the eviction process under the Residential Tenancies Act, which falls outside the City’s jurisdiction and is separate and distinct from this bylaw. Landlords and tenants are encouraged to connect with support services to understand their rights and responsibilities and may wish to seek independent legal advice.