2022 R16 – Explore Vacancy Control

Whereas vacancy control does not apply to new construction and developers will still have incentive to build new units;

And whereas in BC there are mechanisms through which a landlord may apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for an additional rent increase if they have incurred eligible capital expenditures or expenses to the residential property in which the rental unit is located;

And whereas rents continue to rise faster than inflation and the provincially allowable rent increases and the loss of stable rental housing stock and displaced renters adversely affects local economy, community, and ability to maintain health and essential services:

Therefore be it resolved that for the health of our local economies, UBCM advocate that the provincial government explore a vacancy control policy that would limit rent increases between tenancies.