Who handles tenant rights?
Tenant Rights
Tenant rights are primarily provincial. Federal provides national housing policy, provinces regulate tenancy and operate dispute boards, and municipalities enforce housing standards.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● National Housing Strategy
- ● CMHC programs
- ● Federal housing investments
- ● Homelessness strategy
💡 Example: Contact CMHC or your MP about affordable housing policy.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Residential tenancy acts (vary by province)
- ● Landlord-tenant boards/tribunals
- ● Rent control and rent increase limits
- ● Eviction protections and procedures
💡 Example: File a complaint with your provincial landlord-tenant board.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Municipal housing standards and by-laws
- ● Property standards enforcement
- ● Local affordable housing programs
- ● Tenant support services
💡 Example: Report property standards violations through 311, or contact your councillor.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
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