By Cecilia Nasmith

Northumberland County is collaborating with community partners to deliver a certificate program designed to enhance housing stability for renters.

RentSmart is designed to equip both landlords and tenants with the tools necessary for successful tenancies, the county press release stated.

Director of community and social services Lisa Horne noted in the county press release that part of the challenge of ending the cycle of homelessness is reducing the barriers people may face in accessing and sustaining housing.

“RentSmart curriculum is really focused on helping people to build the knowledge, confidence and life skills necessary to achieve successful tenancies,” Horne said.
“This training has an impact, and we are very pleased to be making it available at no cost to participants throughout 2019.”

RentSmart training addresses such topics as the rights and responsibilities of tenants, the responsibilities and expectations of landlords, living with roommates, housemates and neighbours, effective communications skills, budgeting and planning for housing affordability and stability, maintenance dos and don'ts, crisis management, safety and pests.

Acting Warden Bob Crate said this is an example of the county working with community partners to work together on opportunities that ensure safe, affordable housing for all.

“Supporting successful tenancies is vital to building a thriving and inclusive Northumberland,” Crate stated.

“We encourage tenants and landlords alike to take advantage of this program.”

Sessions will be held monthly at various locations across the county, with a range of community partners as facilitators and the Help Centre of Northumberland overseeing the registration process.

For specific dates, times and locations (or to register), call the Help Centre at 905-372-2646.