July 25,2025
RED FM News Desk
Beginning Thursday, July 31, landlords in Toronto will be required to obtain a Rental Renovation License before undertaking any repairs or renovations that would necessitate tenants vacating their units.
Adopted by Toronto City Council in November 2024, the bylaw is part of the City’s broader strategy to tackle the housing crisis by protecting renters and preserving affordable housing stock. It introduces a clear, regulated framework for landlords planning renovations under Ontario’s N13 eviction process. Before proceeding, landlords must apply for a Rental Renovation License and provide proof of building permits, demonstrate the necessity for vacant possession, and outline plans for tenant accommodations or compensation.
For tenants, the bylaw ensures greater transparency and legal protection. Landlords are now required to formally notify tenants of upcoming renovations and offer either temporary housing or rent-gap compensation. If a tenant chooses not to return after renovations are complete, landlords must provide severance compensation to account for the difference in rent. An online public registry will allow tenants to confirm whether their landlord has applied for the required license, and suspected violations can be reported directly to the City.
Support services will also be available to tenants through the Toronto Tenant Support Program, which provides free legal advice, multilingual support, and housing rights information via 311.
Mayor Olivia Chow praised the bylaw as a vital tool in curbing exploitative eviction practices and protecting tenants’ rights. “All Torontonians deserve a safe and secure place to live. This bylaw ensures tenants are not unfairly evicted and helps preserve the city’s affordable rental housing,” she said.
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