County announces its first RentSmart grads

By Cecilia Nasmith

Five local landlords and eight residents are being hailed as the first in Northumberland County to achieve RentSmart certification through a new program offered by the county and the Help Centre of Northumberland designed to provide the tools necessary to maintain successful tenancies.

“RentSmart encourages action toward increasing housing stability and combating homelessness in Northumberland,” Acting County Warden Bob Sanderson stated in the county's press release.

Tenants want to be able to rent safe, suitable and affordable homes, Sanderson said, while landlords want tenants who will take care of their property and pay rent on time.

“This program provides invaluable education and support that encourages both tenants and landlords to work towards one common goal: successful tenancies.”

Through the county's Community and Social Services department and the Help Centre, Rent Smart is offered free at locations across the county. Licensed trainers provide two specialized curricula – one aimed at residents looking for rental properties (or those interested in becoming more informed tenants) and one targeted towards landlords.

Each curriculum encourages participants to increase their knowledge and confidence, with topics ranging from the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords to such essential skills as budgeting, effective communication, and tips for living with roommates, housemates and neighbours.

County Director of Community and Social Services Lisa Horne recalled that RentSmart was launched in June as part of on-going initiatives to improve housing stability in Northumberland and end the cycle of homelessness.

“The response from both tenants and landlords, as well as community partners, has been fantastic,” Horne declared.

“This program clearly responds to an interest in our community for tools that support individual residents in contributing to improved housing stability across Northumberland.

“As a result of the program’s successful first year, we plan to extend the timelines over the next 12 months and offer further sessions, to expand the impact within our community. We are excited to have new trainers licensed this month to increase the capacity across the county.”

“This program is an excellent way to bring residents together to discuss best practices when it comes to renting a home,” Help Centre Northumberland Landlord Liaison Worker and RentSmart Facilitator Miri Henshall added.

“RentSmart provides a valuable avenue for tenants and landlords to share ideas, experiences and questions in a comfortable environment that promotes learning.”

For more information about the program and future sessions, visit Northumberland.ca/RentSmart.