Dear editor,

I am writing to all renters in the Comox Valley about a practice that many landlords, managers and owners have taken, in regards to replacing lost house keys.

They are in violation of the Landlord Tenant Act of B.C.

According to Section 7 (1):

鈥淎 landlord may charge any of the following non-refundable fees (A) direct cost of replacing keys or other access devices.鈥�

Direct is the operative word. This means the cost of the replacement of the key, nothing else, even service charges.

Many buildings are charging $50-$80 for a $20 replacement key. This practice must cease and desist as it is a breach of the Act. Regulation section 7. Direct cost.

Another issue to bring to the powers that be. Rentals that have become vacant often have $100 to $300 increase for the new tenant. This should be unlawful, especially now with the rental crunch.

Every person who falls victim to the 鈥渒ey鈥� issue, or is unable to find affordable, reasonable rent because of greedy landlords, should let your voice be heard.

Enough is enough.

Kimberly Lundgrun,

Courtenay