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July 3, 2020

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Rental Housing Enforcement Unit
14th Floor, 777 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario

Dear Jim Torretto,

I am writing this letter to you on behalf of many constituents of Toronto-St. Paul’s who have received notices from their landlords demanding extra money from their tenants in exchange for allowing their tenants to operate air conditioners in their rental units.

These fees are one-time payments from tenants, and in many cases are being demanded for the first time after many years of no requested payment.

Further, it is our understanding that under the Residential Tenancies Act (2006) fees such as this are not enforceable if the service has been previously included. On top of that, that any fees like this must be charged monthly, rather than in any lump sum.

While this issue is always difficult for tenants, this year it is especially challenging due to COVID-19. Many tenants are spending more time inside than ever before, and in some cases, not being able to utilize air conditioning represents a serious health risk for tenants.

We know that tenants are paying these fees out of fear, and it is unacceptable that there seems to be no punitive measure for landlords who are demanding payments that they are not owed.

Why are landlords not being held accountable?

I am looking forward to a reply within five (5) business days.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jill Andrew, PhD
MPP Toronto-St. Paul’s