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Urge party leaders to adopt a position supportive of vacancy control and develop a bolder plan to ensure tenants aren’t evicted in bad faith.

BC tops two undesirable lists: the eviction capital of Canada and the most unaffordable housing in Canada. Rent is out of control, but it doesn’t have to be. FIRST UNITED is a provincial leader in housing justice. Through our extensive research and expertise we have developed a comprehensive law reform platform that protects tenants, reduces community displacement, and prevents homelessness. Earlier in 2024, the provincial government adopted several of FIRST UNITED’s recommendations. However, one recommendation that has not yet been accepted is vacancy control. Vacancy control has the potential to make the greatest impact for the most people in BC.

Vacancy control is when the allowable annual rent increases apply to the rental unit, regardless of a change of landlord or tenant. Right now, landlords are strongly incentivized to evade rent control by forcing tenant turnover through bad-faith evictions. Through evictions, landlords can increase rent by unlimited amounts. We see this happen across the province. Seniors, people of colour, LGBTQ2S+, and low-income people are at highest risk of homelessness and displacement through these bad-faith evictions, but people of all walks of life and incomes are negatively impacted.

Vacancy control will disincentivize that. It will stabilize rents and prevent people from all walks of life from becoming homeless. This is what’s needed.

Send a letter to provincial party leaders to let them know that you will vote for a party that demonstrates commitment to safe and affordable homes for everyone. The letter will be addressed to:

1. Premier David Eby, BC NDP
2. John Rustad, Conservative Party of BC
3. Sonia Furstenau, Green Party of BC

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October 19 is the last day to vote in British Columbia’s provincial election. We are running a campaign to organize and leverage collective action on two issues (vacancy control and safe supply) that affect the people we serve in the Downtown Eastside. Learn more about our Provincial Election Advocacy. Authorized by First United Church Community Ministry Society, registered sponsor under the Election Act, 604-335-9334.