Canada Housing Market

A substantial number of tenants residing in a three-building apartment complex in Thorncliffe Park have made the resolute decision to withhold rent payments and engage in a strike. This collective action serves as a formidable expression of discontent directed towards their landlord, who has imposed above guideline rent increases (AGIs) deemed unfair.

Situated at 71, 75, and 79 Thorncliffe Park Drive in Toronto, numerous tenants ceased rent payments from May 1, citing dissatisfaction with the notices they received outlining rent hikes ranging from 4.94 to 5.5 percent. These increases surpass the recommended 2.5 percent rent increase guideline prescribed by the province of Ontario for the year 2023.

The buildings are owned by PSP Investments, a prominent Canadian crown corporation managing pension funds, in collaboration with Starlight Investments. Strike participants claim landlords initiated renovations without proper notice, leading to rent increases.

Residents from diverse backgrounds in Thorncliffe Park value their homes greatly. For refugees seeking a better life in Canada, the rent hikes are seen as a direct threat, potentially displacing them from their cherished abodes.

A website, “In Unity Against Inequity: Tenants United to Safeguard Their Residences,” showcases solidarity and resistance. These rent increases are viewed as profit-driven exploitation, with a previous attempt of a 4.2% hike intensifying frustrations.

Tenants unite to challenge exorbitant rent increases and protect their homes. Ontario’s above guideline increases (AGIs) allow landlords to transfer renovation costs to tenants, surpassing provincial guidelines for up to three years. Tenants find it unacceptable for organizations like Starlight Investments and PSP Investments, with substantial resources, to burden existing tenants instead of investing in maintenance.

The Landlord and Tenant Board has yet to make an official decision on the case. Nevertheless, Thorncliffe Park’s tenants remain determined to advocate for their rights and seek a just resolution.