The province has recently made a number if BIG changes that will affect property owners, buyers and tenants. Here’s a Quick summary.
No 1. | CHANGES TO ZONING BYLAWS
British Columbia is changing its zoning rules by fall 2025 to make it easier to build small-scale, multi-unit housing. Here’s a quick rundown of the key points and their effects on different areas:
Key Changes to Zoning Rules
- Secondary Suites and Laneway Homes: All communities in B.C. will now allow one secondary suite or laneway home.
- Increased Density:
- In towns with more than 5,000 people, three to four units will be allowed on lots currently zoned for single-family or duplex use, depending on lot size.
- Larger lots near frequent transit stops can have up to six units.
- Faster Approvals: The approval process will be streamlined, eliminating public hearings for rezonings that fit community plans. Municipalities must regularly update community plans and zoning bylaws.
Local Government Support
- The province is providing $51 million to help local governments update their zoning laws and $10 million for the Local Government Development Approvals Program.
Impact on Specific Areas
- Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) and Gibsons: Exempt from changes as they have fewer than 5,000 residents.
- Sechelt: Must apply for an exemption by June 30, 2024, to avoid the new rules. Water shortages affecting development need to be addressed before increasing housing density.
These changes aim to tackle B.C.’s housing crisis by making it easier and faster to build multi-unit homes. We’ll keep you updated on these changes so you can make informed decisions. For more details, click here.
No. 2 | CHANGES TO RESIDENTIAL TENANCY ACT
On July 3, 2024, the Provincial Government announced significant changes that came into effect July 18, 2024, to protect residential tenants from ending tenancies in bad faith. Under the Residential Tenancy Act, a landlord can end a tenancy for personal or caretaker use.
It’s crucial to be aware of the latest regulations, including Bill 14 Tenancy Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, and best practices to ensure compliance when considering selling a tenanted property. Here are the key points you need to know.
Key Changes Effective July 18, 2024
- Mandatory Use of Landlord Use of New Web Portal:
- Landlords must use this portal to generate Notices to End Tenancy for personal or caretaker use.
- Landlords using the website portal will be required to have a Basic BCeID to access the site.
- The portal will require landlords to provide details about the persons moving into the home. The details of the new occupant of the home will be shared with the tenant.
- While using the website portal, landlords will be given information about the required conditions for ending a tenancy and the penalties associated with ending the tenancy in bad faith.
- They will also be informed about the amount of compensation they will be required to issue to tenants when ending a tenancy.
- Extended Notice Period:
- The Two-Month Notice is changing to a Four-Month Notice on July 18, 2024.
- Tenants will have 30 days to dispute Notices to End Tenancy, extended from 15 days.
- Occupancy Requirements:
- The individual moving into the property must occupy it for at least 12 months.
- Landlords found to be ending a tenancy in bad faith could be ordered to pay the displaced tenant 12 months’ rent.
There are a lot of intricacies with these new changes. If you have questions about how these new developments may affect you or your property, I will be happy to help.