Winnipeg, MB - In the interest of protecting citizens, the Public Service is proposing significant, set fines for landlords who do not comply with minimum heating standards under the Neighbourhood Liveability By-law.
"Landlords in Winnipeg who do not provide adequate heat to their tenants will face significant fines," said Mayor Sam Katz. "Lack of heat can be uncomfortable but can also threaten the well-being of our citizens. The City of Winnipeg’s Neighbourhood Liveability by-law helps protect our citizens and these new, standard penalties will help to convey the serious nature of the violation."
The Neighbourhood Liveability By-law requires that a dwelling be provided with a heating system, which must be maintained in a safe and good working condition. It must also be supplied with fuel or power to provide the dwelling with a room temperature of not less than 21 degrees Celsius between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. and a room temperature of not less than 18 degrees Celsius between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
The Public Service is recommending:
- Failure to provide a heating system or take reasonable steps to repair a defective system carries fines of $1,000 for individuals and $5,000 for corporations.
- Failure to provide adequate heat in a dwelling carries set fines of up to $1,000 for individuals and $2,000 for corporations.
The City receives approximately 300 lack-of-heat complaints per year.
Council approval is required to amend the Neighbourhood Liveability By-law No. 1/2008 to establish set fines.
The report, which will be considered by the Standing Policy Committee on Protection and Community Services on Thursday, October 3, 2013, is available by clicking here.