Liberals must regulate short-term rentals immediately

Halifax-- The NDP is calling on the Liberal government to develop regulations for short-term rentals as soon as possible. Bill 101 was passed in the last sitting to help manage short-term rentals like Airbnb, but residents are still waiting for the regulations that will determine how the legislation is implemented.

“Short term rentals are having a real impact on people’s neighbourhoods, especially here in the HRM,” said Lisa Roberts, NDP Housing spokesperson and MLA for Halifax Needham. “I am very concerned about access to affordable housing, in part, because some landlords are converting rental housing to unregulated short-term rentals.”

The Liberal government should fast-track consultations on regulations pursuant to Bill 101 - The Tourism Accommodations Registration Act immediately and proclaim it as soon as possible.

“There has to be a balance between those who are renting their property short-term with those who need housing,” said Sheri Lecker, Executive Director at Adsum for Women & Children. “The more units that are removed from the rental market, the more rent increases on the units that remain, and the more difficult it is to find truly affordable housing. We want to see regulations that balance a property owner’s ability to use that property with the need for and the right to housing.”

Roberts sent a letter to the Minister of Business last month expressing her concern and calling on the Liberal government to act quickly on this file.

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