Granby City Council Secures Legal Mortgage Against Real Estate Firm Amidst ‘Renoviction’ Concerns
Granby, QC – June 4, 2025 – The City of granby has taken decisive action against 9519-0716 Quebec Inc., a Montreal-based real estate company, securing a legal mortgage following allegations of improper renovations and substandard housing conditions on Boulevard Fortin. The move comes after a months-long inquiry sparked by reports of potential “renoviction” – the practice of evicting tenants under the guise of renovations.
According to city officials, the development and protection service received notification of concerning activity at the property several months ago. Subsequent inspections revealed work undertaken without the necessary permits and identified unsanitary living conditions within the building.
“We take the safety and well-being of our residents extremely seriously,” stated Granby Mayor Julie Bourdon in a released audio statement. “We followed the proper procedures, issuing reports and notices to the owners. This ultimately led to a municipal court judgment on May 8th against the company.”
The judgment resulted in over $70,000 in fines levied against 9519-0716 Quebec Inc., in addition to the legal mortgage now held by the city.This mortgage provides Granby with a financial claim against the property, ensuring the city can recover costs associated with rectifying the issues and protecting tenant rights.
Understanding ‘Renoviction’ and Tenant Protections in Quebec
This case highlights a growing concern across Quebec: the increasing prevalence of “renoviction.” While landlords have the right to renovate their properties, provincial law dictates strict guidelines to prevent the displacement of tenants.Landlords must obtain the necessary permits, provide adequate notice, and, in many cases, offer tenants the right of first refusal to return to the renovated unit at a comparable rent.
The Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) – Quebec’s housing court – has seen a surge in cases related to renovictions in recent years.tenants facing eviction due to renovations are encouraged to seek legal advice and understand their rights. Resources are available through tenant advocacy groups and the TAL itself.
The Long-Term Impact of Municipal action
Granby’s proactive approach in securing a legal mortgage sends a clear message to developers and landlords: non-compliance with building codes and tenant protection laws will not be tolerated. This action not only addresses the immediate concerns at the Boulevard Fortin property but also sets a precedent for future enforcement.
Experts suggest that increased municipal oversight and stricter penalties are crucial to maintaining affordable housing stock and preventing the displacement of vulnerable tenants in a rapidly changing real estate market. The situation in Granby serves as a critical case study for other municipalities grappling with similar challenges.
