Yukon introduces new rent control and tenant protections

The Yukon government has introduced a new law called the Residential Tenancies Act. This law aims to create fairness between tenants and landlords. It will replace the old Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The new act includes several important changes. It establishes rent control and requires landlords to give a specific reason for ending a lease. There are also new rules for mobile home living. Community Services Minister Richard Mostyn stated that the law is meant to ensure stability and fairness in landlord and tenant relationships. One notable aspect of the law is that it allows tenants to end leases if their safety is at risk or if they need to move into long-term care. Additionally, it allows landlords to charge deposits for pets. This change aims to encourage more pet-friendly rentals, a common concern among Yukoners. Lars Hartling, who leads the Yukon Residential Landlord Association, supports the bill but wishes to see the removal of rent caps. He believes these caps might deter investment in the region. Yukon Party Leader Currie Dixon echoed this concern, arguing that landlords should have the freedom to set their rental prices. NDP Leader Kate White pointed out that the bill also gives tenants the right of first refusal if they are evicted for renovations. She believes it is unfair for tenants to lose their homes due to a landlord's neglect in maintaining property standards. The bill is currently being reviewed by the legislature's committee.