It has been reported that Tarion – the independent and not-for-profit organization that administers Ontario’s new home warranty program – is facing the “largest claim event” in its history, with the organization expecting to owe more than $90 million to home buyers. “The claims are expected for deposits from homebuyers who purchased homes or condos […]
Ontario builders are concerned about Tarion’s future, says lawyer Read More »
By Paul Russell, LegalMatters Staff • For the past two decades, paralegal Jenna Little litigated provincial offences at the Ontario Court of Justice. That allowed her to develop an impressive skill set encompassing various areas of law including constitutional applications, federal contraventions and provincial offences appeals. She recently embarked on a fresh endeavour as a
Paralegal brings unique provincial court experience to law firm Read More »
On Oct. 21, the provincial government introduced legislation that would eliminate the requirement that people need work experience in Canada before being licensed to work in the skilled trades or a variety of professions. The proposed rules would affect most regulated professionals. To read more, click here. Regulations governing the sale of new homes are changing Real estate
Regulated sectors to see change in Canadian work experience rules Read More »
A new policy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario provides guidance about the role of expert witnesses when they are asked to testify in courtrooms and tribunals. Many of the guidelines are applicable to regulated professions across the province. To read more, click here. Real estate regulation update a win for the
Understanding the role and limits governing expert witnesses Read More »
Ontario’s home-building industry significantly changed on Feb. 1 as the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) started operations. The new agency takes over the regulatory and licensing functions previously carried out by the Tarion Warranty Corporation, and I believe the division of powers is a mixed blessing for consumers and the industry. To read more, click
There is a new regulator in town for Ontario home builders Read More »
After Ontario’s economy was hammered by COVID-19 in 2020, its economic recovery this year will be led by home construction even though the pandemic has changed almost every aspect of the industry. There are many new rules that home builders must now abide by to keep workers safe. But they are nothing that cannot be
Handwashing stations one part of building homes in a pandemic Read More »
I recently had the pleasure of meeting with the sales team at Sotheby’s International Realty to discuss legal considerations for realtors when dealing with new home sales. It’s a changing landscape for builders, vendors and realtors alike. Here are some key points realtors should keep in mind. All vendors of a new, previously unoccupied home
Regulations governing the sale of new homes are changing Read More »
The modernization of regulations governing Ontario’s real estate industry is welcomed by those in the industry and I am sure it will be embraced by the public. The first phase of the Trust in Real Estate Services Act, 2020 was implemented on Oct. 1, affecting the work of registered real estate brokerages, brokers and salespersons
Real estate regulation update a win for the industry and consumers Read More »
With the goal of improving customer service while enhancing transparency and consumer protection, the Tarion Warranty Corporation recently released a plan outlining how it will fulfill recommendations handed down by the Auditor General. Created in 1976 to administer the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act, Tarion is financed entirely by builder registration, renewal and home
Roadmap sets out a clear path for protecting new home buyers Read More »
These are challenging times for many professionals, requiring us to re-think our practices and ways of connecting with people. This is especially so for real estate agents and brokerages. While real estate services have been declared essential in Ontario, agents and brokerages still need to ensure they are following the social distancing requirements to ensure
Protecting a real estate business and licence during COVID Read More »
