Provincial Government Urges Landlords to Pass on Energy Rebate Benefits to Tenants

Alberta Government Services Minister Patricia Nelson is urging landlords in the province to pass the benefits of the provincial government's energy shielding program onto their tenants.

"The provincial government has taken steps to shield all Albertans, including tenants through $300 energy tax refunds, $480 in electricity assistance as well as natural gas rebates-depending on what utilities the tenant is responsible for," said Nelson. "While many landlords have been cooperative I am concerned in hearing reports of some who are proceeding to raise rents even though they will be receiving electricity and natural gas rebates that are intended to offset energy increases."

Nelson was also encouraging landlords to be open and up-front with their tenants if they must still raise rents for reasons other than electricity or natural gas.

"The rebates are intended to assist landlords from having to raise their rents due to higher power costs. I ask them to talk to their tenants and explain all cost pressures that they must address."

Sue Jackson, President of the Alberta Residential Rental Association said, "We are aware of the Minister's request for landlords to be fair to tenants with utility rebates. Certainly we encourage that as well, and if those cost-savings can be passed onto the tenants-we support that. We also call upon landlords to fully explain the reasons for any rental increases."

The Alberta Residential Rental Association represents owners and managers of residential rental property in the province with more than 50,000 rental units.

The Minister noted the provincial government is sending a fact sheet on energy assistance to all landlords and condominium corporations in the province reminding them of what the rebates are intended for and asking them to work with their tenants.

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Media enquires may be directed to:

Ed Greenberg - Alberta Government Services - (780) 427-0788 - (780) 718-5699