Brampton Enforces Stricter Housing Regulations to Combat Overcrowding and Raises Fines for Violations

The amendment introduces specific occupancy standards and higher penalties for violations, all part of the city’s ongoing effort to ensure safe and affordable housing for residents.

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Starting January 22, 2025, Brampton is set to enforce stricter regulations under its Property Standards By-law 165-2022, aiming to curb unsafe overcrowding in residential dwellings. The amendment introduces specific occupancy standards and higher penalties for violations, all part of the city’s ongoing effort to ensure safe and affordable housing for residents.

Under the new amendments, bedrooms will be required to meet minimum floor space standards depending on the number of occupants. Specifically, a bedroom shared by three individuals must have a total floor area of at least 14 square metres (around 150 square feet). For rooms with four or more occupants, the law mandates a minimum of 7 square metres (approximately 75 square feet) per person.

This new rule directly addresses the growing concern about overcrowded living conditions in many rental homes and shared housing across Brampton, where residents often face subpar living conditions due to lack of space. “It’s a much-needed step toward ensuring that the housing we live in is safe, especially for those of us who live in shared spaces,” said Mandeep Singh, a resident of Brampton’s Ward 5. Singh, who lives in a rented house with multiple housemates, believes the amendment will significantly improve safety and reduce health risks in overcrowded homes.

The by-law also increases fines for repeat offenders. Individuals or property owners found in violation of these new standards will face escalating penalties: $500 for the first offense, $750 for the second, and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. “These measures should deter landlords from cramming too many people into a space for financial gain, which often leads to unsafe living conditions,” Singh added.

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Another resident, Komal Thakur, a student at Sheridan College who lives in a rented house with housemates, expressed optimism about the changes. “As a student, I share a house with a few friends, and while it’s convenient, space has often felt cramped. I’m happy to see the city take action. These new rules will make a difference, not just for students like me but for everyone living in overcrowded conditions,” she said.

The city also maintains that any unauthorized conversions of other rooms into bedrooms will remain prohibited, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining structural integrity and safety standards. These regulations apply to all residential dwellings in Brampton, whether they are privately owned or rented.

The move comes in response to significant community feedback highlighting the need for more stringent housing regulations. The city’s efforts are aligned with broader housing strategies aimed at balancing affordability with safety and well-being. “We have listened to residents and are committed to ensuring safe and reliable housing for everyone in Brampton,” said a City of Brampton spokesperson. “While these amendments are a positive step, we will continue to evaluate and adjust as necessary.”

Brampton’s amendments to the Property Standards By-law are not only a response to overcrowding but part of the city’s wider initiative to address ongoing housing challenges, ensuring all residents, whether homeowners or tenants, live in safe and habitable conditions.

For more information on the new by-law and its implementation, residents are encouraged to visit the City of Brampton’s official website.

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