Chatham-Kent council has unanimously approved a motion directing municipal staff to develop a proposed licensing bylaw to regulate the use of N13 notices to end a tenancy for renovations, commonly referred to as “renovictions.”
The motion, brought forward by Coun. Marjorie Crew, responds to growing concerns that N13 notices are being used inappropriately or in bad faith, contributing to the loss of affordable rental housing and increased housing instability for tenants in Chatham-Kent and across Ontario.
Under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, landlords may issue an N13 notice when a unit must be vacant for extensive renovations, demolition or conversion. However, council acknowledged that misuse of this provision can lead to tenant displacement and higher rents without the promised renovations being completed.
“Council heard clearly that housing stability matters,” said Crew. “This motion is about protecting tenants from bad faith evictions while still respecting the rights of responsible landlords. By exploring a licensing framework, we’re taking a thoughtful, balanced approach that puts fairness and accountability at the centre.”
The approved motion directs staff to prepare a report and draft “N13 Licensing By-law” for council’s consideration. If adopted in the future, the bylaw would require landlords to obtain municipal approval before undertaking renovations that require a rental unit to be vacant. The framework would focus on ensuring N13 notices are used only when genuinely warranted.
Mayor Darrin Canniff said the decision reflects council’s broader commitment to housing stability and affordability.
“Access to safe, stable housing is fundamental to a strong and sustainable community,” said Canniff. “Council’s direction to staff allows us to carefully examine how other municipalities have addressed renovictions, consult with stakeholders, and determine what approach makes sense for Chatham-Kent.”
As part of the process, staff will consult with tenant advocacy groups, landlord representatives, housing experts and municipalities that have already implemented similar bylaws, including Hamilton, London and Toronto. Public input will also be gathered through the municipality’s Let’s Talk engagement platform.
Administration is expected to bring a recommendation report and draft bylaw to council by summer 2026. The report is expected to outline enforcement mechanisms, administrative fees, appeal processes, compliance reporting and resource requirements.
No changes to existing bylaws or rental rules are being implemented at this time.
