The Debate Over Maximum Temperature Bylaws

Picture this: a landlord stands at a city council meeting, red-faced, sweating through his shirt like a popsicle in a sauna. “A maximum temperature bylaw?” he scoffs. “What’s next—giving renters foot rubs?!”

Watch As Newsload Anchor "Bob" interviews a local Landlord who's against the proposed bylaw.

Enter ACORN: The Advocates for Tenant Rights

Enter ACORN, the real MVPs, lobbying for a basic bylaw: setting a max temperature for rental units so tenants don’t have to sleep inside a human crock pot.

Now, imagine the same landlord, bundled in a parka, claiming: “Furnaces? Tenants should just snuggle for warmth! Or do jumping jacks! It builds character.”

City council nods solemnly, “Yes, yes, personal growth through frostbite.”

The Absurdity of the Debate: Humidity and Heat

Let’s take it further:

• Mold in the bathroom? “It’s natural air filtration!”

• Broken windows? “That’s eco-friendly ventilation—just think of the breeze!”

• No fridge? “We provide a strong sense of nostalgia for the 1800s!”

  
  

We have minimum temperatures to protect renters from the cold, but in summer? It’s apparently open season on sweat. With climate change giving Canada the humidity of a Florida swamp, refusing a max temp bylaw is like banning umbrellas during a monsoon.

The Reality of Living Without A Maximum Temperature

This isn’t luxury; it’s livability. Tenants shouldn’t have to choose between heatstroke and moving into the frozen food aisle at Costco. No one should suffer in their living space just because of a lack of proper regulations.

Moreover, as temperatures continue to rise, the idea of living in unregulated environments can lead to significant health risks. Heat-related illnesses can become serious issues, especially for the elderly and those with existing health conditions.

The Time for Change Is Now

So come on, city council. Let’s make the joke the sketch, not real life. Give renters the right to not boil like pasta in their own homes.

This is not merely a humanitarian issue; it is a necessity. Allowing temperatures to soar in rental units is a disservice to those who simply want to live comfortably. As we advance into a world facing serious temperature challenges, it's crucial to adapt regulations accordingly.

The impact of extreme temperatures should not be ignored. It’s time for effective policies that ensure all tenants can live in safe and sane conditions.

Improviser Challenge: Be a Voice for Change

Improviser Challenge: record yourself as a landlord making your best case for why you shouldn't have to have air conditioning available in your rental property.

If you want to stay informed about the tenant rights movement and join the conversation, check out this CTV News article.

For more about the ongoing efforts in Ontario, visit Ontario ACORN.

Let’s work together for a better future where every home provides not just shelter, but a safe and livable environment.