Saanich has passed a new bylaw which offers better protection to tenants who are evicted due to redevelopment.
The District’s new Tenant Protection Bylaw (TPB) will replace the existing Tenant Assistance Policy (TAP) that has been in effect since June 2023, but has gaps which left some evicted tenants without support.
According to the District, the new bylaw will expand the range of development projects that must provide support to tenants who are evicted due to redevelopment.
This will ultimately give the District better enforcement tools and tenant support, which will include financial compensation and assistance in finding new accommodations.
Developers that fall under the purview of this bylaw are required to submit a tenant assistance plan as part of their development permit application to the District.
This plan will be followed up by subsequent reports to confirm compliance with the bylaw.
According to Saanich, one key difference between the previous policy and the new one is the ability to enforce.
If developers/landowners fail to submit the reports or are found to be in breach of the bylaw, fines may be imposed or permits may be withheld.
“Most purpose-built rental buildings in Saanich were built before the 1990s and, as buildings age, they become more likely to be considered for redevelopment,” reads a media release from the District.
“The new bylaw adds protection to current renters in Saanich as we work to encourage revitalization of existing buildings and new rental housing development.”
This bylaw was approved by Saanich council on February 9th.
