OLA and the Media
(The OLA does not offer legal advice so any legal questions emailed in will not be replied to).
The Ontario Landlords Association for small business landlords (OLA) exists to protect and promote the interests of private residential landlords. With most OLA members owning or managing rentals of less than 10 units, we are important stake-holders playing an important role in the Ontario economy. And our voices have often been silent. The OLA provides a comprehensive range of benefits and services to its members and strives to raise standards in rented accommodation.
The number of rental units in Toronto has been decreasing dramatically even though new units are being built – a situation that could lead to a housing crisis in the near future. It is estimated that 25% of rental units in Toronto are provided by small landlords who rent out homes, duplexes, second suites and condominium units. With 49% of all Torontonians being renters this means over 300,000 people in the city, and approximately 674,000 in the GTA, rely on small landlords to provide them with a place to call home. (Source: Key Facts on Rental Housing in Toronto, City of Toronto, http://www.toronto.ca/torontoplan/opa2_fact_sheet_rental.htm)
Landlords are frequently looked down upon in the media and by disgruntled renters while the truth is that many landlords are committed to their work and to providing good quality housing for their tenants
Small business landlords often assume great risk when they rent out their home or condo. They could be faced with a tenant who does not pay rent, who conducts illegal activity from their suite or who causes extensive damage. Evicting a tenant in Ontario is a complex and lengthy process that can take many months and is sometimes unsuccessful. Small business landlords are rarely acknowledged for the risks they face as well as for the vital service they provide.”
The OLA seeks to safeguard landlords’ legitimate interests by making their collective voice heard by local and central government and the media. The OLA seeks a fair legislative and regulatory environment for the private-rented sector while aiming to ensure that landlords are aware of their statutory rights and responsibilities towards their tenants.
The OLA for small business landlords welcomes media attention and can offer experts in all areas of the “landlording” experience. From ‘begbugs’ to ‘rent increases’ to ‘the effects of the HST’, an OLA member can give you a grass-roots, stake-holder view of your average Ontarian who has invested here.
For media interviews please contact us as: olacontact@yahoo.com