August 3rd, 2012
Landlords and Good Government Agree Rent Control Isn’t For Saskatchewan
What’s Going On?
With all the reports of low vacancy rates and raising rents, some are saying it’s time for Saskatchewan to implement ‘Rent Control’.
Is Saskatchewan Heading for Rent Control?
At a recent meeting of landlords, it was made clear rent controls are not a good idea for our province.
Laurie Wionzek of Boardwalk Rental Communities is opposed to rent controls. Wionzek stated her opposition is not only because it will harm landlords, but because it will hurt the everyone in the province who appreciates and desires growth and prosperity.
Did She Explain Why?
Yes. Wionzek explained rent controls will lead to landlords not being able to pay to properly maintain rental buildings. If landlords can’t make enough money it will lead to shabby, non-maintained properties.
What Does the Government Say?
It was nice to see the Minister of Justice Don Morgan attend the meeting. The Minister stated the government is not in favor of rent control for the province.
What About the Tenant Activists?
The tenant activist community is not as vocal in Saskatchewan as they are in Ontario and British Columbia…yet. In those provinces, tenant activists want the government to punish, fine and even jail landlords who cannot afford to maintain their buildings. In Ontario, the tenant activists have pushed rent control to ridiculous limits.
Fortunately we have a strong, pro-growth government in Saskatchewan. Landlords only need to look at other provinces to realize how important good government is for growth and prosperity. Let’s all remember that on election day!
Tags: landlord advocacy
