Brampton’s Residential Rental Licensing Pilot Program

In January 2024, the City of Brampton launched a two-year Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) Pilot Program aimed at enhancing tenant safety, housing quality, and neighbourhood standards. The program applies to rental properties with four or fewer units in Wards 1, 3, 4, 5, and 7—areas with a history of rental violations.

Whether you’re new to residential leasing or own multiple properties, working with a qualified Landlord Tenant Lawyer Toronto can help you navigate these new legal responsibilities.

Purpose of the Residential Rental Licensing Program

The RRL program aims to protect tenants and ensure landlords provide clean, safe, and code-compliant housing. It requires landlords to obtain a business license, thus promoting responsible property management and reducing non-compliance with local regulations.

Overseen by a task force including Rowena Santos, Dennis Keenan, and Rod Power, the program targets persistent rental issues and prioritizes community well-being. For landlords concerned about legal obligations or tenant disputes, a Landlord Tenant Dispute Lawyer at Unified LLP can provide tailored legal support.

Program Success to Date

Since its launch, the City of Brampton has made impressive progress:

• Over 2,200 business licenses issued for rental units
• 4,700+ inspections completed, including checks on Additional Residential Unit (ARU) registrations, parking, and property standards
• 611 administrative penalties issued, totaling $83,500 in fines
  

In 2025, the city will shift to proactive inspections of licensed properties, ensuring landlords comply with the Landlord Code of Conduct and maintenance rules. A Toronto Landlord Tenant Lawyer can guide you through inspection preparedness and compliance planning.

Application Requirements for Landlords

If you own a rental property in the affected wards, here’s what you’ll need to provide when applying:

• Fillable Application Form: Details your property and confirms agreement to program rules and inspections
• Form A – Rental Unit Info: Includes amenities, number of rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, etc.
• Form B – Owner Declaration: Confirms authorization and agreement to abide by licensing terms
• Form C – Insurance Declaration: Verifies that your rental property is properly insured
• Fee: A $300 application fee is waived for the remainder of 2025, making this a great time to register
  

Application processing can take up to 20 business days due to high volumes. You can begin your application via the City of Brampton portal.

Early Registration Discount

To promote early compliance, the City is offering a 50% discount on the application fee for those who apply by September 30, 2024. That’s $150 instead of the standard $300. After this date, the full fee will apply.

Landlords who want to protect their interests while meeting city requirements can benefit from the guidance of a Landlord Lawyer Toronto.

Compliance Inspections and Code of Conduct

To uphold the integrity of the program, Brampton’s Enforcement and By-law Services will conduct intelligence-led inspections. These inspections will ensure compliance with:

• The Landlord Code of Conduct
• Minimum maintenance standards
• Fire and safety by-laws
  

Partnering with a skilled Landlord Tenant Lawyer can help landlords respond to inspection results and implement necessary changes swiftly.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The city has introduced clear penalties for landlords who do not comply:

• First offence: $600
• Second offence: $900
• Subsequent offences: $1,200
  

These fines underscore the importance of staying aligned with the program’s rules. A Landlord Tenant Dispute Lawyer can help resolve disputes or contest unfair penalties.

The Road Ahead for Brampton’s Rental Market

Brampton’s Residential Rental Licensing Pilot Program is a forward-looking initiative designed to raise housing standards and protect tenant rights. With support from legal professionals such as a Toronto Landlord Tenant Lawyer, landlords can maintain compliance, avoid penalties, and foster better community relationships.

To learn more about licensing, visit the official City of Brampton resource page or review updates from Councillor Santos.

If you’re a property owner in Wards 1, 3, 4, 5, or 7, act now to register and take advantage of the limited-time 50% discount.