Previously, co-op housing providers and their members had to go through the courts to resolve disputes, which was costly and time-consuming. They will now have an easier, cost-effective and accessible way to resolve disputes including persistent late payments, illegal behaviour, and intentional damage to property.
Bill 14 amends the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, and the Co-operative Corporations Act to enable paralegals acting for co-ops, to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve tenure disputes.
Here is the Press Release from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing:
Ontario Government Makes Dispute Resolution Simpler, Faster
Sept. 24, 2013 | Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Today, Bill 14, the Non-profit Housing Co-operatives Statute Law Amendment Act, 2013, passed third reading after debate in the Ontario legislature. When it comes into force, the bill will amend the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, and the Co-operative Corporations Act to enable co-ops to apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board to resolve tenure disputes.
Previously, co-op housing providers and their members had to go through the courts to resolve disputes, which was costly and time-consuming. They will now have an easier, cost-effective and accessible way to resolve disputes including persistent late payments, illegal behaviour, and intentional damage to property.
Co-op providers and their members will also enjoy many of the protections and benefits provided to landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, including access to mediation services.
Improving the tenure dispute resolution process for co-op providers and their members is part of the Ontario government’s plan to invest in people, one of the three pillars of the government’s economic plan to create jobs and growth and help people in their everyday lives.