Tenants residing in Browns Court, a rental neighborhood in Charlottetown, claim they have been enticed with substantial sums of money to vacate their units following a change in ownership two years ago. The current rental rates are notably below the prevailing market rates, but several occupants expressed concerns to CBC News that the rents might escalate post-renovation by the new owner.
Mike Morrison, a resident for four years who currently contributes $400 monthly towards the $1,200 rent (excluding utilities), voiced unease over the insecurity of his housing situation. He anticipates a potential doubling of the rent for future tenants post-renovation, indicating the owner’s intention to continually increase rents.
The complex, located opposite the University of Prince Edward Island campus, primarily accommodates students due to its proximity but also houses families. In 2023, tenants were informed about the sale of several buildings by Killam Apartment REIT to Werkliv Group Inc., a Montreal-based company specializing in student and rental housing development.
Provincial records confirm Werkliv as the current owner of a significant apartment building in Browns Court, with others attributed to 505 University Avenue Limited Partnership, directed by Daniel Goodfellow. Despite the absence of company representatives for interviews, an email from Lyndsay Alexandra associated with “University Apartments” defended the renovations as necessary to meet student housing standards.
Several tenants reported feeling pressured to accept offers of financial compensation to vacate, with some receiving amounts equivalent to six months’ rent. Concerns were raised about potential violations of rental laws and regulations, with tenants expressing apprehensions over forced evictions or rent increases beyond allowable limits.
Formal eviction procedures necessitate paperwork and approvals under P.E.I. rental laws, providing tenants with rights to appeal and alternative accommodation options. Rent control measures restrict substantial rent hikes and require landlord applications for increased rents post-renovation, subject to limitations.
The situation at Browns Court has drawn attention from Liberal MLA Gord McNeilly, who suspects circumvention of legislation by the complex operator. Efforts have been made to seek an investigation by the P.E.I. Residential Tenancy Office to address tenant grievances and ensure compliance with rental laws.
Students occupying the revamped units reported unexpected rent hikes and discrepancies between initially communicated prices and final lease terms, highlighting challenges faced by tenants in negotiating with landlords. Despite concerns and financial burdens, some tenants felt compelled to stay due to limited alternatives.
In light of these developments, stakeholders stress the importance of upholding tenant rights, adherence to rental laws, and transparent communication between landlords and occupants to ensure fair and lawful rental practices in Charlottetown’s housing market.
