The Town of Whitby Council has directed staff to prepare a report and associated by-law for council consideration that requires owners of multi-residential rental properties without in-unit air conditioning to provide an air-conditioned common space.
The space must be accessible to all tenants between June 1 and September 14.
The motion notes that common spaces should be cooled to no more than 26° C, except in instances where multi-residential properties do not have existing common spaces or if the building construction and/or ventilation system make cooling a common space impossible, the report said.
Town staff were asked to prepare the report and by-law in time for the requirement to take effect by June 1, 2026, and ensure public notice is provided to multi-residential property owners and tenants through the town’s communications channels.
Will It Trigger Rent Increases
The report will also include an assessment as to whether investments for cooling centers could trigger an above guideline rent increase for tenants living in the buildings.
Generally, older building with lower rents may fall in this category.
The motion also notes that “all multi-unit property owners are encouraged to upgrade all units to have air conditioning over the next five years.”
You May Also Wish To Read