May 2020
IN THIS ISSUE
- Provincial state of emergency & implications for renters
- The City's Tenant Relocation and Protection Plan
- Resources during COVID-19
- Contact details for the Renter Office
Welcome to the first edition of the Renter Office newsletter which we’ll send on a regular basis to provide information on common issues that Vancouver renters face. This month’s edition focuses on COVID-19 and its impact on renters.
Whether you’re needing help with financial resources to pay your rent or navigating the status of your tenancy, we know that the COVID-19 emergency has put a major strain on Vancouver renters who are already dealing with the ongoing shortage of affordable housing. It’s an unprecedented situation and understanding the different supports to access can be very confusing.
To help you deal the COVID-19 emergency, we’ve prepared a quick guide on the latest updates and resources available.
Provincial state of emergency & implications for renters
In March 2020, the BC government declared a provincial state of emergency to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. They also amended the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) to support renters and landlords during the emergency and to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The government has implemented a number of measures for renters and landlords during the Provincial State of Emergency, including:
- Halting evictions (with some exceptions for health and safety concerns)
- A temporary $300/$500 rental supplement for April, May, and June rent payments paid to landlords
- A freeze on new rent increases
- Limiting access to common areas to reduce the spread of COVID-19
- Not permitting landlords to enter a rental unit without the consent of the tenant (even if proper notice has been served), including for showing units to prospective tenants, unless there is risk to personal property or life.
The state of emergency is currently due to last until at least June 9. We will provide an update as soon as the Province shares more information for renters and landlords during BC’s Restart period. If you have specific questions on your tenancy and options during COVID-19, or to check for updates on the state of emergency, visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website.
The City’s Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy
During COVID-19, the City of Vancouver has instructed applicants (developers and landlords) to place a hold on current Tenant Protection Plans during the state of emergency and to communicate by phone or email for any in-process plans.
Resources during COVID-19
Financial Resources
If you are experiencing financial difficulties because of COVID-19, both the federal and provincial governments have financial aid programs to support you. Where possible, you are encouraged to pay your rent and work together with your landlord on a payment plan or deferral that is acceptable and doable during this situation.
Federal Government
- Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
- Special Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- BC Housing – Temporary Rental Supplement
- BC Housing - Rental Assistance Program (RAP)
- BC Emergency Benefit for Workers
- Income Assistance – COVID-19 Supplement
- The Vancouver Rent Bank – Review the eligibility criteria
Legal advice and assistance on matters related to your tenancy fall under provincial, not municipal, jurisdiction. Organizations that can help you with questions about your tenancy include:
Contact us at the Renter Office
The Renter Office is here to support you during this difficult time, please email or call us through the Renter Enquiry Line and we will do our best to get back to you within two business days:
- renteroffice@vancouver.ca
- 604-673-8291
What's next?
We are exploring a virtual renter town hall with our partners. We will share updates in next month’s newsletter. Stay tuned!
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City of Vancouver - 453 West 12th Avenue - Vancouver - BC - V5Y 1V4