Property Standards and Yard Maintenance Complaints

The following process applies specifically to complaints concerning the exterior condition of a building or property. Resolution timelines for Property Standards and Yard Maintenance complaints vary depending on the nature and complexity of the issue. Generally, cases are resolved within 21 to 50 days, factoring in considerations such as weather conditions, the scope of required work, and contractor availability.

1. Complaint Submission: The complaint is received and logged by Municipal By-law Services.

2. Officer Assignment: A By-law Enforcement Officer is assigned to the file.

3. Investigation Initiation: The assigned Officer initiates an investigation and will contact the complainant within four (4) business days of assignment.

4. Inspection: A site inspection is conducted to assess the validity and scope of the complaint.

5. Enforcement (if required): Depending on the outcome of the inspection, the Officer may proceed with enforcement measures, including:

   • Verbal Warning

   • By-law Infraction Notice

   • Notice of Violation

   • Property Standards Order

   • The Officer will notify the property owner and complainant of the applicable timelines for compliance.

6. Remedial Action: The property owner is expected to correct all identified violations within the prescribed timelines.

7. Re-inspection: A follow-up inspection is conducted to verify compliance. In cases of non-compliance:

   • The property owner may be subject to fines.

   • The Municipality may arrange for remediation through a third-party contractor, with the associated costs applied to the property owner’s tax roll.

8. Final Steps:

   • The complainant is updated on the outcome of the investigation.

   • The file is closed by By-law Services once full compliance has been achieved.