Do you need a building permit to evict tenants (Vancouver) ?

[Will Thompson]

Do you need a building permit to evict tenants (Vancouver) ?

I am involved in an 11 unit multifamily property in Vancouver. The building is a 1950s building and we have leaking plumbing pipes throughout. The intent is to replace the plumbing pipes (substantial drywall and flooring has to be removed) and undertake a cosmetic renovation. This does not trigger any permits.

The intent is to remove all tenants during this time due to the amount of disruption.

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Thomas Beyer]

You do not need these permits to issue eviction notices. As such, serve them all with a notice, with is two month notice and they get the last month free rent. However, some (or all if they are well organized) may balk and you may have to argue in front of the "rentalsman" i.e. you will be asked to attend a dispute resolution hearing with the Residential Tenancy Branch that hears such cases. As such, be prepared to thoroughly document your case, as it may be challenged by 2 or 3 of the 11. These "renovictions" are not uncommon but controversial and some smart tenants may "lawyer up".

More here http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/h...ng-a-tenancy/landlord-notice/two-month-notice or here https://www.reminetwork.com/articles/evicting-tenants-for-repairs-or-renovations/ or here http://www.theglobeandmail.com/real...ut-by-landlords-renovictions/article26756305/