‘Modest licensing model’ recommended for Kitchener’s renoviction bylaw
Posted Mar 30, 2026 04:20:34 AM.
Last Updated Mar 30, 2026 10:51:16 AM.
When it comes to creating a bylaw to protect Kitchener renters from renovictions, a consultant’s report is recommending a “modest licensing model” that would be different from the City of Waterloo’s.
A staff report summarizing the research from Optimus SBR is calling for an approach that enhances transparency and oversight while avoiding duplication of provincial processes.
It says the province’s Residential Tenancies Act has requirements for tenant compensation, including financial compensation, providing another acceptable unit, and the right of first refusal for re-occupancy.
In terms of specifics, the city’s new bylaw would require “a professional assessment from a Qualified Person confirming that vacant possession is necessary… and proof that all prescribed information has been provided to affected tenants.”
It would include clear prohibitions, inspection authorities, and enforcement mechanisms, with offences and penalties for non-compliance.
Also, fixed limits on when to publish notifications about applying for a permit to evict people for renovations, and an application licence fee of $650 per unit.
The city’s bylaw would have education-focused enforcement “that is consistent rather than punitive.”
City staff say they know tenant advocacy groups are calling for stronger measures, including cost compensation and rent top-ups, like in Toronto, Hamilton and Waterloo.
But aside from duplicating the Residential Tenancies Act, there’s a risk of legal challenges, uncertainty about the effectiveness of more expansive measures in addressing bad- faith evictions, and the cost to the city.
The report also said implementing such a bylaw “will have considerable financial implications.”
This would be one-time costs estimated at $100,000 to set up the system, and for communication and outreach. There would be ongoing operating costs of $205,000 per year for staffing and program administration.
The report recommends two new full-time equivalent positions: a Licensing Administrator and a new Tenant Liaison job.
The new bylaw system could be up and running for Jan. 1, 2027 unless the new staff can be hired and set up quite early, in which case it could come into effect Sept. 1 this year.
The report will be discussed on Monday’s Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting in council chambers.
