The recent tragic house fire in Brampton, which claimed multiple lives and devastated a family, is a heartbreaking reminder of why the Residential Rental Licensing Program (RRL) must be expanded and strengthened immediately. Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this terrible loss.
In response to this tragedy—and noting that it occurred outside the current pilot area—I, together with Councillor Dennis Keenan, moved a motion at today’s Committee of Council meeting on November 26. This motion calls for the citywide implementation of the RRL Program and urges the Province to provide additional tools and support to ensure safer rental housing throughout Brampton.
This tragedy occurred outside the pilot area, demonstrating that safety risks exist across the entire city. Council’s decision to expand the RRL program into additional wards and move toward a citywide rollout is a critical step to protect residents.
I have championed the Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) Program from the very beginning—starting with the initial direction in November 2022, through the official launch of the pilot program in early 2024, and now again today as we take the next step to strengthen and expand this critical safety initiative.
From its inception, the RRL Program has been designed to provide essential oversight: stronger accountability for landlords, mandatory safety declarations, insurance requirements, and proactive inspections that prioritize the wellbeing of tenants. The enhanced framework approved by Council further tightens these measures and adds capacity, including four new Fire Prevention Officers.
However, municipal action alone is not enough. The Province permitted Additional Residential Units (ARUs) as-of-right but did not provide the funding or enforcement tools municipalities require to ensure these units are legal, safe, and properly maintained.
Brampton now has tens of thousands of ARUs and an enforcement burden that has been pushed down to our local fire, building, and by-law teams. We need the Province to step up with dedicated long-term funding and legislative changes that give municipalities clear authority to inspect, regulate, and enforce safety in these units.
One preventable loss of life is a tragedy. We must do everything in our power to prevent further loss through stronger licensing, better resourcing, and true provincial leadership.
I will continue advocating for the resources and regulatory changes Brampton needs: more inspectors and fire prevention officers, permanent funding from the Province and the federal government, and legislation that allows municipalities to protect residents while preserving safe, affordable rental options.
Motion
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