Government introduced changes to the Residential Tenancies Act, today, Oct. 21, that will benefit both tenants and landlords.
The changes will allow for other hearing formats, such as telephone hearings, to be held. Right now, only in-person hearings are allowed. The move to other formats will reduce wait times, and save tenants and landlords time and costs associated with travel.
Another change will allow landlords to provide electronic copies of the act to tenants, instead of printed copies, making the process more efficient.
“One-third of Nova Scotians rent their homes, while hundreds more are landlords. They expect modern, easy to use processes,” said Service Nova Scotia Minister Mark Furey. “Changes like this show Service Nova Scotia’s commitment to provide better client service and government’s commitment to cut red tape.”
In an effort to reduce red tape and increase convenience for clients, the authority to waive hearing fees will be transferred from the Service Nova Scotia Minister to the director of residential tenancies. Applicants who do not receive income assistance or the guaranteed income supplement, and wish to have their fees waived, must apply for a fee waiver.
Landlords and tenant associations were consulted and support the proposed changes.
This work supports government’s commitment to cut red tape for business and citizens, modernize legislation and make government services more accessible and efficient for Nova Scotians.
Source: Release