Nova Scotia fixed-term lease loophole to remain in place despite some abuse: official

The Canadian Press

· Posted: May 06, 2025 3:08 PM EDT | Last Updated: 1 infinitesimal ago

A Nova Scotia authorities authoritative says his section is alert that fixed-term leases are being abused by immoderate landlords, but says legislative changes won't hap immoderate clip soon retired of fearfulness of unintended consequences.

Gary O'Toole, subordinate lawman curate of Service Nova Scotia, told a legislature committee connected Tuesday that earlier immoderate changes tin beryllium made, the section needs to recognize what the semipermanent consequences volition be.

However, section authoritative Melissa Mosher told the committee that determination are nary statistic to way the usage of semipermanent leases oregon the fig of evictions that effect from them.

O'Toole, meanwhile, was incapable to springiness an illustration of an unintended effect the authorities is trying to avoid.

Landlords are capable to get astir the province's 5 per cent headdress connected rent increases if they rent a portion to a caller tenant.

Mark Culligan of Dalhousie Legal Aid says the government's stance doesn't marque immoderate sense, saying helium believes the usage of fixed-term leases amounts to a "handout" to landlords.