Pubdate: Fri, 10 Mar 2006 Source: Parksville Qualicum Beach News (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Parksville Qualicum Beach News Contact: http://www.pqbnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1361 Author: Colleen Dane LANDLORDS ON THE HOOK It may be tough for landlords to swallow, but when someone has to be held responsible for damage caused by tenants, it's going to be them. According to Parksville city council this week -that goes especially for repair and clean-up of a property used for drug production. Council approved a controlled substances property remediation bylaw Monday night - effectively creating a way to recover costs of clean-up if a drug lab is found on rental property. "I have to look at it from the perspective of someone who represents the public - it's a cost recovery bylaw, and it puts a significant burden on the landlord," said Councillor Chris Burger. "As a landlord, I probably wouldn't like that too much." It's better that the property owner be held responsible, rather than having all taxpayers cover those costs, said Burger. Landlord John Mansell told council he has concerns with the intent of the bylaw. He said he is already cautious - checking references in person, maintaining regular inspections and watching for tell-tale signs of abuse - but said the bylaw could still hold him responsible despite his due diligence. Even if he has suspicions of illegal activity in the home, he has to give tenants 24-hour notice before investigation. That's more than enough time for tenants to pack up any visible signs of production, he said. "This puts landlords who do practice due diligence in an impossible, impossible situation." Mansell asked council to include a statement to clarify that the bylaw doesn't intend to punish attentive property owners. Trying to make exceptions within the document though was what tossed out a previously recommended bylaw. Staff suggested that would cause administrative problems. "At this time I would suggest the bylaw is a one-size fits all bylaw," said director of planning Gayle Jackson. As a last effort, Mansell asked that it be included in the minutes of the council meeting that the intent of the bylaw is not to punish property owners practicing due diligence. Council was advised that only motions and outcomes are recorded, and that an inclusion like that was not allowed. The bylaw was passed unanimously by the councillors present. Councillors Sue Powell and Charles Robinson were not present. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin