Housing situation in Annapolis Valley challenging for tenants

Wolfville -- The growing housing crisis is affecting all parts of Nova Scotia, not just Halifax. In the Annapolis Valley the growth of short-term rentals like Airbnb are putting a squeeze on people who rent.

“We know that the tremendous growth of short-term rentals is having a negative impact on the number of housing units available for people looking to rent long-term,” said Lisa Roberts, NDP Housing Spokesperson. “We need the government to regulate short-term rentals to help protect renters and communities.”

Jarod Campbell lives in Wolfville. He recently helped organize the Wolfville Tenants Union, which is working to organize students to protect their rights around housing issues.

“There have been more Airbnbs opening every year since I started at Acadia, now there are more than 100,” said Campbell. “This is driving up the cost of rent, and if landlords don’t find a tenant willing to pay higher costs, they just keep it as a short-term rental. Combine this with some landlords unilaterally adding hidden fees at the end of a lease and students are having a tough time finding an affordable and safe place to live.”

The NDP is focused on solutions for making housing more affordable including rent controls, regulating short-term rentals, and building more housing units.