Flooring issues cleaners may encounter

When cleaners move from job to job, they often encounter flooring conditions that either shouldn’t be cleaned or need special attention. Rather than simply ignoring them, it’s a good idea to tell the company about the issue to avoid being blamed, explain the change in cleaning protocols, and demonstrate your attention to detail.

Here are some of the conditions cleaners may run into that can make cleaning a challenge:

Failing adhesive can result in the flooring becoming raised, moving planks, or visible adhesive at the seams. Often caused by a deficient adhesive or using the wrong type of adhesive, rather than what’s often attributed to the use of too much moisture on the floor. Reporting this to the building owner or manager is your best course of action to get this repaired or replaced.
Cracked, stained, or missing grout can be blamed on cleaning staff, but it is more than likely caused by wear and tear or improper installation.
Carpet stains can sometimes be released when deep cleaning occurs, as many products are heat-activated, so it may seem like the stain did not exist before cleaning.
Gaps, cupping, crowning, or buckling happen when flooring materials expand or contract due to changes in temperature and humidity and need to be repaired by a professional.
If there is moisture in the flooring, warping or mould growth can occur. This may require remediation and immediate attention from a professional.
Sunlight exposure, wear, or a chemical reaction can cause flooring to become discoloured or faded. Minimizing sunlight exposure and foot traffic can help, along with ensuring that the correct products are being used to clean the floor.
Dull spots on laminate flooring can be caused by a buildup of soap or cleaning products, wear and tear, or dirt buildup. A cleaning solution specifically designed for laminate and a microfibre mop can address this condition.

As cleaners travel from place to place, they often encounter varying flooring conditions, some of which may be able to be addressed with a thorough cleaning, and some as a result of wear and tear, deficient materials, or incorrect installation. Knowing which issues can be caused or rectified by cleaning means being able to help building managers better maintain their property, while avoiding false blame and maintaining good client relations with your customers.

Four tips for better restroom care

As we celebrated World Hand Hygiene Day this month, Sofidel, a leading global paper provider for hygienic and domestic use, offers ways to keep the restroom in tip-top shape while prioritizing sustainability. This global initiative highlights the critical role of hand hygiene in reducing the spread of germs and promoting healthy habits.

“… We want to emphasize the important role restroom cleanliness plays in promoting proper hand hygiene,” said Giorgia Giove, Marketing Manager at Sofidel. “Our mission is to support facility managers with effective, environmentally responsible hygiene solutions.”

Facility managers and cleaning staff should consider the following when putting hand hygiene first as part of restroom care:

Prioritize sustainable products. Select toilet paper, paper towels and facial tissue that are certified by trusted organizations such as Green Seal or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These certifications indicate products are responsibly sourced and safe for both people and the environment. This helps companies lower their carbon footprint, focus on ESG goals, and align with public concern for sustainability.

Keep hand hygiene supplies stocked. Ensure your facility is consistently stocked with essential hand hygiene products, including soap, paper towels, and sanitizing supplies. Opt for third-party-certified products that meet environmental and health standards. A fully stocked restroom supports consistent handwashing and demonstrates your commitment to a well-maintained restroom, as well as mitigating frustration and disappointment when visitors use your facilities.

Use automatic dispensers. Automatic paper towel dispensers provide a hygienic and sustainable restroom solution by reducing high-touch surfaces and limiting the spread of germs. As a result, it reduces unnecessary paper waste and provides a more hygienic solution in comparison to air dryers, saving you money and lessening your environmental impact.

Promote hand hygiene through education. Display clear, engaging signage in restrooms to reinforce proper handwashing practices. Visual reminders near sinks remind occupants of the importance of hand hygiene and demonstrate correct techniques, such as scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds. Educational signage helps reinforce compliance across your facility and reinforces your commitment to practicing responsible hand hygiene.

Hand hygiene remains crucial to reduce the spread of germs, promote healthy restroom experiences, and leave guests and staff feeling protected when they visit your facility.

NB takes first step to property tax reform

New Brunswick will hold property assessments at 2025 levels for 2026 as the first step of a promised overhaul of the property tax system. Legislation to enable the measure was introduced in the provincial legislative assembly last week.

The one-year freeze will apply on an estimated 430,000 properties that have not otherwise changed or been sold or transferred to new owners over the course of the year. As well, the Province will offer rental housing landlords and non-residential property owners the option of paying property tax in 12 monthly installments, beginning in 2026. Residential owner-occupiers already have that option.

“These proposed amendments, once passed, will be the beginning of property tax reforms for New Brunswickers,” maintains Finance and Treasury Board Minister René Legacy.

The New Brunswick government promised those reforms during last fall’s provincial election campaign. At the time, Liberal leader Susan Holt, who is now the Premier, suggested the work would begin in 2025 and carry through to 2026.

“Reform of the property tax system is not a short-term project by any means,” affirms Aaron Kennedy, New Brunswick’s Minister of Local Government.

Ontario tables legislation to spur new housing

Ontario tabled legislation that will get new homes and infrastructure built faster by streamlining development processes and reducing costs in close partnership with municipalities. Homebuilders that have been advocating for government action are praising the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025, introduced this week.

“In light of the dire housing supply and affordability crisis that we are facing, the proposed legislative changes are critical to eliminating hurdles and reducing costs so that the residential construction industry can get back on track and build the housing that Ontario needs,” said RESCON president Richard Lyall.

The province is also increasing its investment in housing-enabling infrastructure by adding $400 million in immediate funding to the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF) and Municipal Housing Infrastructure Fund (MHIP) for a total of nearly $2.3 billion over four years across the HEWSF and the MHIP.

If passed, the legislation would include measures that some municipalities have already implemented. Ontario will work with them to continue simplifying, streamlining and reducing costly local development fees that can add hundreds of thousands of dollars to the cost of new homes.

RESCON says the glacial planning approvals process and exorbitant tax burdens have been major obstacles. A report done by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis revealed that the tax and fee burden in Ontario averages almost 36 per cent of the purchase price of a new home – up from 31 per cent three years earlier. Hikes in development charges accounted for a big chunk of that increase.

The legislations also promises to remove barriers for Canadian manufacturers who want to introduce innovative materials, systems and building designs that could reduce construction costs and expedite project.

Actions would also improve planning and delivery for transit-oriented communities, creating more jobs and housing options near transit, reduce costs and speed-up project approvals with consistent building construction standards across Ontario municipalities, accelerate getting shovels in the ground to build major transit projects by extending measures in the Building Transit Faster Act, 2020 to all provincial transit projects, and ease development applications, land use planning approvals and contents of municipal official plans.

Ontario’s road building standards can differ across its 444 municipalities, causing unnecessary cost and delays; therefore, the province will consult with municipalities and stakeholders by fall 2025 on framework legislation for greater harmonization and clarified governance of municipal standards. The is expected to lead to cost savings through more efficient design and technical review, greater construction efficiencies and streamlined procurement processes.

Through HEWSF, the province has already allocated nearly $1.3 billion for water and waste-water infrastructure projects that will allow the construction of about 600,000 homes. Ontario has also invested approximately $700 million in MHIP. Combined with the new $400 million ($315 million for HEWSF and $85 million for MHIP) this brings the new total investment to nearly $2.3 billion.

Through the Building Faster Fund, the government has also provided municipalities with $286.8 million for community and housing-enabling infrastructure last year, along with $120 million dedicated for small, rural and Northern municipalities without housing targets which is being delivered through the HEWSF and MHIP.

“Municipalities cannot tackle this challenge alone — we need support like this to cut red tape, streamline approvals, and create the conditions for faster, more affordable housing development,” said Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish. Mississauga’s Housing Task Force has demonstrated that bold reforms and innovative policies can drive real progress, and these provincial measures will encourage cities across Ontario to accelerate their own housing initiatives.”

Trailside launches in Lynn Valley, B.C.

Mosaic has unveiled its Trailside community in the Lynn Valley neighbourhood of North Vancouver. The development, about 10 years in the making, features one-, two- and three-bedroom homes with tall 10-foot ceilings and oversized windows that bring in natural light.

Construction is expected to begin in the summer and will welcome its first homeowners by mid-2027.

“We’re incredibly proud of how our Lynn community is coming together,” said Geoff Duyker, senior vice president of marketing. “It’s been exciting to see strong interest from Lynn Valley locals—many of whom are either purchasing their first home or looking to stay in the neighbourhood with more space to grow.”

Each home comes with a large outdoor space—whether it’s a ground-level patio or a big balcony—with views of the North Shore all around. Kitchens come outfitted with wood-grain cabinets, quartz countertops, and brushed nickel hardware, while bathrooms offer oversized tiles, frameless glass showers, and relaxing soaker tubs.

Trailside owners will also have access to the Lynn Club, a private 10,000 square-foot clubhouse designed just for the community. It includes an indoor pool, fitness centre, the Mountain Lounge with a fireplace and shared kitchen, and an outdoor gathering area.

A living room at Trailside. Each home comes with views of the North Shore. Photo by Mosaic.

Nova Scotia updates accessibility plan

Nova Scotia has released an updated accessibility plan that sets commitments across eight priority areas for the next three years.

This is the third multi-year plan released under the Accessibility Act and includes actions to advance accessibility in employment, service delivery, information and communication, and public transportation.

Some goals include making apprenticeship programs more accessible and creating new supports for apprentices with disabilities and removing barriers in community and school transportation systems.

Twenty-nine government departments collaborated on the new goals through discussions with employees with disabilities and Nova Scotians from a wide range of backgrounds.

Looking back on progress made on the 2022-2025 plan, the province has already adopted the Built Environment Accessibility Standard—the first of six accessibility standards—which aims to make physical spaces more inclusive people with disabilities..

“The Government of Nova Scotia is continuing to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to creating an accessible province and delivering services, policies and programs that meet the needs of Nova Scotians with disabilities,” said Max Chauvin, Chair, Accessibility Advisory Board. “The Accessibility Advisory Board will continue to provide advice and recommendations, based on lived experience, that will help advance this important work.”

Illegal drug activity could ensnare landlords

Landlords and condominium corporations in Ontario may want to augment their due diligence procedures to ensure they can demonstrate efforts to prevent illegal drug activity in their buildings. Proposed new provincial legislation — introduced earlier this month as part of the omnibus Bill 10, which also includes amendments to seven other statutes — targets landlords who knowingly permit the production or trafficking of controlled substances within premises they control and/or who knowingly possess the proceeds from such activity.

That comes with the possibility of hefty fines and/or jail time, and the potential for corporate officers and directors to be personally penalized. However, as with the Occupiers’ Liability Act, the proposed Act allows the defence that “reasonable measures” were in place to guard against criminal activity. The government is promising more details on what that might entail in future regulations and guidance documents.

“Depending on the context of the situation, reasonable measures can include actions such as informing the police and/or commencing an eviction process,” states associated background posted on Ontario’s regulatory registry for public consultation. “What is reasonable in a specific scenario will depend on the facts.”

The legislation would apply to owners who have leased commercial or residential property or head tenants who have sublet the space to perpetrators of illegal drug activity. Legal specialists draw a clear distinction between the proposed Act’s direct targeting of landlords for specified offences versus the Occupiers’ Liability Act’s more general assignment of a duty of care for people coming onto a property, but there are some parallel best practices for precautions.

Regular inspections coupled with written inspection reports provide a good basis for proving landlords have made reasonable efforts to address risk. In relation to the Occupiers’ Liability Act, Joe Hoffer, a partner and counsel with Cohen Highley LLP, recommends an initial inspection and corresponding report when a tenant first occupies a space with a follow-up three months later. Provided there is no cause for concern, annual inspections should then suffice.

Alternatively, it’s important to investigate if there are signs of suspicious behaviour or activities, or complaints from other building occupants. Residential landlords are already responsible for ensuring a safe and peaceable environment, as stipulated in Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), so the proposed new Act simply adds another layer of offences and liability.

“If there is evidence the landlord knew or ought to have known of the activity — for example, based on the allegations of neighboring tenants — but chose not to investigate or commence eviction proceedings, then not only would the landlord be liable under the RTA for failing to ensure the complaining tenants’ ‘reasonable enjoyment’, but would also be liable under Bill 10 if/when it’s enacted,” Hoffer observes. “In a condo setting, the proper step would be for the corporation to apply to the Court for an order against the unit owner and/or the tenant requiring that the owner/tenant cease the activity and/or giving vacant possession and sale of the unit.”

Proof of complicity an extra test beyond negligence

The proposed Act establishes various compounding penalties for offenders. Individuals convicted of knowingly permitting illegal drug activity would be subject to a fine of $10,000 to $250,000 and/or up to two years of imprisonment for a first conviction, while a subsequent conviction would merit a fine of $5,000 to $100,000 for each day the offence occurs and/or imprisonment for up to two years. For corporations, fines are set at $25,000 to $1 million for a first conviction, and at $10,000 to $500,000 per day for subsequent convictions.

Additionally, individuals would face a fine of up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in prison for knowingly possessing the proceeds of illegal drug activity, or for re-entering or attempting to re-enter a property that has been closed due to illegal drug activity. (Sitting tenants of a residential property are excepted in the latter scenario since the RTA stipulates that Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board must formally evict them.) Corporations would be subject to fines of up to $250,000 for the same offences.

The definition of knowingly possessing the proceeds goes beyond collecting rent or condo fees from a perpetrator. Hoffer suggests investigators, and ultimately the Courts, would be looking for evidence of some kind of irregular payment such as rents that are well above the market rate or a substantial deposit of key money for the lease.

Regardless, Crown prosecutors would still have to prove that landlords colluded with law-breaking tenants on both the charges of knowingly permitting illegal drug activity and knowingly possessing the proceeds. That’s likely to be a more difficult test than simply demonstrating negligence. Hoffer characterizes a landlord’s or condo board’s inaction on complaints or other evidence of drug production/trafficking as “some prima facie evidence of failure to exercise due diligence” but not the complete makings of a case.

Other initiatives in Ontario and Manitoba

In tandem with introducing Bill 10, the Ontario government has also announced that the Accommodation Sector Registration of Guests Act will go into force on Jan. 1, 2026. That legislation, which was passed in 2021, will require hotels and online accommodations platforms to keep a register of each transacted bedroom or suite, containing the name, address and possible other prescribed information about at least one the occupying guests.

This register is to be made available to the police, under prescribed circumstances set out in the legislation, when there are grounds to believe the occupant is a victim of human trafficking or at imminent risk of being trafficked. The Act also includes requirements for police services to report annually on the circumstances in which they have sought access to these registers.

Hoteliers and operators of online accommodations platforms could be fined up to $5,000 for failing to maintain the register or for knowingly allowing false information to be recorded. Guests who provide false information would also be liable for fines of up to $5,000.

Meanwhile, the Manitoba government is moving to shorten the timeline for residential evictions if a tenant is engaged in drug, cannabis or human trafficking. Currently, the provincial Residential Tenancies Act provides authority for evictions to occur within five days in cases where there is an immediate risk to the health and safety of other building occupants. A proposed amendment to the Act would create a new category of “significant risk” related to those three types of activities.

This is meant to address situations such as the one Manitoba’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Matt Wiebe, cited earlier this spring while introducing the bill for second reading in the legislative assembly. In that case, video evidence provided ample evidence of non-residents entering and exiting a particular unit where drug trafficking was believed to be occurring, but this could not be construed as an immediate risk to others’ health and safety.

With the proposed amendment, hearings officers with the Residential Tenancies Branch could order an eviction based on evidence from one or more designated sources, including: police officers; investigators with the provincial Public Safety Investigation Unit (PSIU); security guards or building operations staff; emergency services first responders; municipal bylaw inspectors; public health inspectors; staff with a family and child services agency; or those deemed to have “specialized knowledge, training or experience on indicators of unlawful activity”.

“Our government believes that trafficking in drugs and human beings is always a risk to public safety, which is why we are changing this law,” Wiebe said. “Proposed amendments will also clarify that if the landlord proves, on balance of probabilities, that the tenant is engaging in drug or human trafficking, such activity will be deemed a significant risk to safety.”

Rocky Ridge Athletic Park construction begins

Construction has stared on the $25 million Rocky Ridge Athletic Park in Calgary. The development is designed to improve access to recreation in Calgary’s northwest communities. Completion is expected in fall 2026.

Located adjacent to the Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge, the athletic park will feature two competition-sized multi-use artificial turf sports fields, washrooms, parking, field lighting and landscaping. The athletic park will provide high-quality spaces for sports leagues, families, schools and community groups, supporting a wide range of physical activities. Rocky Ridge Athletic Park will be bookable through our athletic fields booking system and will be operated alongside Calgary’s existing network of athletic parks and artificial turf fields.

“The Rocky Ridge Athletic Park is a clear example of how we are planning for growth and responding to the needs of our communities,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “It’s a smart and necessary step for the future of Calgary, ensuring we create high-quality spaces where families, athletes, and community groups can come together, stay active, and thrive.”

The athletic park is the first phase of the larger Rocky Ridge Athletic Complex vision, which will one day include an indoor fieldhouse, pending future funding availability.

“The Rocky Ridge Athletic Park adds much-needed outdoor recreation opportunities, expanding on the success of the Shane Home YMCA that the city completed in 2017,” said Kerensa Swanson Fromherz, director of public spaces delivery at The City of Calgary. “We are excited to be getting underway with construction so we can have the fields ready for use in the fall of 2026.”

Construction of the athletic park is part of the city’s “GamePlan” public recreation strategy, which aims to meet the growing need for accessible athletic spaces by having a total inventory of 89 artificial turf fields across Calgary by 2050.

Holborn Group proposes major development

The Holborn Group is proposing a major development in Vancouver that will see three of the tallest towers built in British Columbia.

Designed by Henriquez Partners Architects, the $2.8-billion mixed-use development project in downtown Vancouver will include towers at 68, 69, and 80 storeys.

Spanning three sites at 501 & 595 West Georgia Street and 388 Abbott Street, the project will provide commercial job space in the Central Business District, increase hotel rooms downtown, and deliver a broad spectrum of housing types including social housing, rental and condominiums at a major transit node.

According to Holborn, the project is about ambitious city-building — unlocking public benefits on under-utilized land in a way that supports some of the city’s most urgent needs. Proposed uses will include a dynamic blend of non-market housing, market rental, and market residential, hotel, retail, and cultural spaces — a new hub, delivering energy, equity, and opportunity to the heart of Vancouver.

The development will include 1,939 new homes, of which 1,288 market residential, 273 rental, 378 non-market housing, and 920 room hotel. Four striking towers—rising from 400 to 1,033 feet—will transform the skyline. The tallest, on West Georgia will feature a public observation deck with panoramic views, a conference centre, and a new public plaza to energize the streetscape. As a gift to the city, a 38-storey tower of non-market homes at 388 Abbott will feature a childcare facility, and a public art gallery celebrating the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

The buildings’ design draws inspiration from glass sponge reefs found off the B.C. coast and aims to significantly reduce embodied carbon emissions. If approved, completion could take more than a decade.

Canadian rental market sees modest gains in April

The average asking rent for residential properties in Canada rose 0.4 per cent in April 2025 to $2,127, reaching a five-month high, according to the latest National Rent Report from Rentals.ca and Urbanation. Despite consecutive monthly increases, rents remain 2.8 per cent lower year-over-year, marking the seventh straight month of annual declines.

Urbanation President Shaun Hildebrand noted early signs of stabilization in the rental market: “Renters are starting to take advantage of the improvement in affordability, which is thanks to the record amount of new supply hitting the market.”

Since April 2021, asking rents have surged 28 per cent, with a 6.2 per cent increase compared to two years ago. Among property types, purpose-built rentals led April’s gains, rising 0.9 per cent to $2,105, while condo rents fell 1.0 per cent month-over-month and 5.2 per cent annually to $2,210. Three-bedroom purpose-built units saw the highest annual growth at 4.4 per cent, while condo rents declined across all unit types.

Regionally, Saskatchewan led annual rent growth at 4.1 per cent, followed by Nova Scotia (+2.6%) and Manitoba (+0.6%). Ontario posted the largest annual decline at -2.7 per cent, though rents ticked 0.5 per cent higher month-over-month.

Among major cities, Calgary saw the steepest annual decline at -8.9 per cent to $1,903, its lowest level in two years. Toronto rents fell 5.5 per cent to $2,606, while Vancouver dropped 4.9 per cent to $2,836. Meanwhile, Ottawa (+1.9%) and Edmonton (+0.3%) saw modest gains.

Shared accommodation rents fell 5 per cent year-over-year to $943, with notable declines in Montreal (-8.9%) and Vancouver (-7.6%), while Ottawa (+7.7%) and Edmonton (+1.1%) were the only cities posting increases..

For the full report, click here: www.rentals.ca

EPA takes further action to combat PFAS contamination

Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin outlined upcoming agency action to address Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). In this suite of actions, Administrator Zeldin announced a long list that included the creation of effluent limitations guidelines (ELGs) for certain PFAS to stop these forever chemicals from entering drinking water systems, and initiatives to engage with Congress and industry to establish a clear liability framework that ensures the polluter pays and passive receivers are protected.

“I have long been concerned about PFAS and the efforts to help states and communities dealing with legacy contamination in their backyards. With today’s announcement, we are tackling PFAS from all of EPA’s program offices, advancing research and testing, stopping PFAS from getting into drinking water systems, holding polluters accountable, and providing certainty for passive receivers. This is just the start of the work we will do on PFAS to ensure Americans have the cleanest air, land, and water,” said EPA Administrator Zeldin.

These actions are guided by the following principles: strengthening the science, fulfilling statutory obligations and enhancing communication, and building partnerships. With this approach, EPA will provide the foundation and investment necessary for a toolbox that will help states and communities dealing with PFAS contamination:

Implement a PFAS testing strategy under Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Section 4 to seek scientific information informed by hazard characteristics and exposure pathways
Launch additional efforts on air related PFAS information collection and measurement techniques related to air emissions
Identify and address available information gaps where not all PFAS can be measured and controlled
Provide more frequent updates to the PFAS Destruction and Disposal Guidance—changing from every three years to annually—as EPA continues to assess the effectiveness of available treatment technologies
Ramp up the development of testing methods to improve detection and strategies to address PFAS
Develop effluent limitations guidelines (ELGs) for PFAS manufacturers and metal finishers and evaluate other ELGs necessary for reduction of PFAS discharges
Address the most significant compliance challenges and requests from Congress and drinking water systems related to national primary drinking water regulations for certain PFAS
Add PFAS to the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) in line with Congressional direction from the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act
Enforce Clean Water Act and TSCA limitations on PFAS use and release to prevent further contamination
Achieve more effective outcomes by prioritizing risk-based review of new and existing PFAS chemicals
Implement section 8(a)7 to smartly collect necessary information, as Congress envisioned and consistent with TSCA, without overburdening small businesses and article importers.
Advance remediation and cleanup efforts where drinking water supplies are impacted by PFAS contamination

This mindset and the need for a polluter pays model have guided much of the work to be done at EPA for the future.

Allergens in the workplace

Throughout the spring and summer, many people are plagued with seasonal allergies, which can trigger symptoms, hinder performance, and contribute to absenteeism. Research shows that allergies affect between 10 and 30 per cent of the population, making the reduction of allergens in the workplace an important step in increasing productivity. Commercial cleaners and maintenance managers play a role in helping to keep the indoor air and atmosphere allergen-free, making workplaces more enjoyable and safer places to work.

Some of the more common allergens found in the workplace include:

Pollen: Easily tracked into the building from clothing, shoes, and open doors.
Dust and dust mites: Increased foot traffic and spring cleaning can stir up settled dust.
Mould and mildew: Seasonal temperatures and higher humidity levels make it easier for mould to grow, especially around vents, windows, and in storage areas.
Pet dander: Even if the building is pet-free, dander can cling to jackets, bags, and personal belongings from home.

Here are some tips to keep allergens outside and office employees symptom-free:

Simply cleaning surfaces is not enough when faced with indoor allergens, many of which are airborne. However, dust and allergens tend to settle on surfaces, so regular cleaning and sanitation help limit the effects of allergens inside the building.
Often, spring means de-cluttering and reorganizing, and that can stir up dust and other allergens. Stay vigilant in cleaning these areas to reduce the dust travelling through the building.
Keep windows, doors, and delivery areas closed as much as possible.
Vacuum frequently and use HEPA filters, which trap the particles and mould spores that are invisible to the eye.
Avoid using strong cleaning chemicals, which may contain harsh chemicals and could trigger symptoms with the ingredients or product odour.
Deep clean carpets and upholstery throughout the season so that dirt and dust do not become embedded.
As your HVAC system switches from heating to cooling, schedule an air duct and vent cleaning, replace filters, and conduct scheduled maintenance to improve the IAQ in the building.
Keep humidity levels between 40 and 50 per cent in your building to help prevent mould from developing.
Adding greenery can help boost moods, improve aesthetics, and help purify the air. Consider options like the areca palm, snake plant or peace lily, which can help improve air quality.

Stay on top of allergy season with a daily cleaning routine that can help increase comfort and productivity for your business.

Manitoba takes lead in nixing property controls

Manitoba consumers could see the distance shrink between competing grocery stores with the adoption of new provincial legislation. Bill 31, the Property Controls for Grocery Stores and Supermarkets Act — to prohibit the imposition of restrictive covenants and exclusivity clauses and allow for the removal of such controls where they currently exist — passed third reading in the Manitoba legislative assembly with all-party support earlier this week.

The legislation is in line with the urgings of the Competition Bureau of Canada, which has called on provincial/territorial governments to implement measures to restrict or outright ban lease and land title mechanisms that give benefitting grocery store operators dominance within a mall or larger trade area. Manitoba is the first Canadian jurisdiction to take that step, authorized through provincial/territorial responsibility for the oversight of commercial property transactions.

The Act addresses both restrictive covenants, which are registered on land titles to prevent certain types of commercial operations, and exclusivity clauses, which are enacted through leases to prevent landlords from renting space to potential rival businesses selling similar products or services. It will apply to retail establishments larger than 3,000 square feet that primarily sell food products for off-site preparation and consumption.

“This will stop the use of property controls in ownership and the leasing agreement in the grocery sector to increase competition and stabilize the grocery prices,” maintained Mantu Sandhu, Manitoba’s Minister of Public Service Delivery, as he introduced third reading of the bill on May 5. “More competition in the grocery industry is expected to increase access to healthy food and make life more affordable for all Manitobans.”

Once Bill 31 receives royal assent and is enacted, retailers that do not register existing property controls with provincial administrators within 180 days will automatically forfeit their entitlements. Even beyond that date, legacy property controls can be challenged and subject to a Manitoba Municipal Board hearing to determine their legitimacy.

The latter action could occur if the Minister directs the Board to consider it, or if a member of the public submits a request for a review and it is deemed in the public interest to proceed with a hearing. In determining the public interest, the legislation instructs the Board to consider whether property controls benefitting existing grocery store operators have reasonable geographic boundaries, time horizons and designated protected offerings to consumers, and whether they hinder residents of the community from gaining convenient and affordable access to food products.

“In essence, the Board must ask whether the restriction serves a legitimate public purpose or whether it primarily functions as a private commercial protection — with a clear legislative directive to strike down restrictions that fall into the latter category,” Nick Noonan an associate with Winnipeg-based Fillmore Riley LLP, observes in a summary the firm released after the Bill’s introduction in March. “Even landlords and tenants who successfully navigate the registration process and preserve existing restrictions will remain exposed to future challenges and ongoing uncertainty about the enforceability of those rights.”

Holders of property controls who are subject to a Municipal Board hearing will have an the opportunity to make written or oral submissions. However, the Act stipulates that there will be no compensation for the loss of, or adjustments to property controls, either due to failure to register within the legislated 180 day period or a Municipal Board decision to rescind or alter them.

There continues to be an option for governments (federal, provincial and municipal) and their agencies to impose property controls that are tied to development schemes within a subdivision plan or enacted through zoning laws. The Act also allows for exemptions that might be prescribed through regulation.

Despite supporting the bill, some Opposition members of the legislative assembly (MLAs) expressed skepticism that it would accomplish the Government’s objective to make food more affordable. Progressive Conservative MLA Josh Guenter also called the new registration system for existing property controls a “loophole” that will keep many existing restrictive covenants and exclusivity clauses in place.

“The bill is, notionally, a reasonable bill and one that our PC team will be supporting. However, our broader concern is that I don’t think it is going to have any impact at all,” Guenter stated during the debate associated with third reading.

The Competition Bureau is continuing to seek input to help inform its in-progress investigation of Empire Company Limited and George Weston Limited, the parent companies of Sobeys Inc. and Loblaw Companies Limited, and whether their use of property controls unduly curtails market competition. Through other negotiations with the Competition Bureau, Empire Company Limited, also agreed, earlier this year, to lift a property control in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, meant to ensure it would remain the sole grocery store operator in the area.

“Market forces — not property controls — should determine whether and where new grocery stores can open in communities across Canada,” says Matthew Boswell, Canada’s Competition Commissioner.

The Competition Bureau released a broader study of grocery store competition in 2023 and issued guidance on property controls last year. In both cases, it acknowledges that commercial landlords may be under pressure to secure highly sought anchor tenants. The guidance affirms that scrutiny for anti-competitive behaviour will “in most cases” focus solely on the “party who proposed or benefits competitively” from the property control.

In Manitoba, Noonan suggests commercial real estate owners should audit their leases, development agreements and title documents for embedded property controls they may not be aware of. They should also assess whether existing property controls could stand up to the test of public interest.

“Businesses may need to explore alternative methods to protect key tenants, preserve the integrity of retail developments and ensure that mixed-use sites remain viable and attractive to anchor tenants,” he submits.

Mixed-use plans for 34-acre greenfield in Waterloo

The City of Waterloo has approved the sale of the city-owned Former Kraus Lands to Urban Legend Developments (ULD), for building a mixed-use community for nearly 5,000 residents.

The 34-acre greenfield site, located near University Avenue and Woolwich Street, will feature a a mix of affordable and attainable housing options and commercial amenities like a grocery store, retail promenade, event space, public trails and green space.

Plans call for 1,800 new homes, with 100 permanently affordable options—30 rental and 70 ownership units—offered in a mix of one- and two-bedroom layouts. A built-in legal framework will ensure these homes remain affordable in perpetuity.

Sustainability is also embedded throughout, with features such as green roofs, solar panels, permeable pavement, rooftop water storage, LED lighting, and more than 2,000 new trees. The neighbourhood will also include EV0charging stations, naturalized stormwater systems, and green building elements like oversized windows and natural ventilation. At least 25 per cent of the site will remain dedicated to parks, open space, and trails, including a universally designed park and preserved natural buffers.

The Former Kraus Lands were made available through a request for expression of interest issued in June 2020. Following a multi-year process involving collaboration, public and First Nations engagement, and project refinement, ULD was selected to lead the transformation of the site.

“Our team is thrilled to be working alongside the City of Waterloo on such a transformative project,” said Paul Leveck, president of ULD. “This is an incredible opportunity to help realize the City’s long-term planning goals—bringing much-needed housing, delivering inclusive community spaces, and setting a new standard for sustainable neighbourhood design in Waterloo.”

Construction of this new community will take place over the next 10 years. The next stage will focus on detailed design and planning approvals, laying the groundwork for site servicing and the first phase of residential construction. Ongoing consultation with key groups including First Nations will continue, as well as public consultation to align with the various planning phases of the site.

BCIT announces new Mott Electric Pavilion

A new facility at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Burnaby campus will play a critical role in expanding access to electrical training opportunities.

BCIT and Mott Electric announced the naming of the new Mott Electric Pavilion which will create more than 250 new seats each year to help meet the growing demand for skilled tradespeople in British Columbia.

This ambitious project is made possible through the generous $2 million donation from Mott Electric and Dan Mott, president of Mott Electric and BCIT electrical apprenticeship alum. Mott Electric’s gift to the BCIT INSPIRE Campaign marks one of the Institute’s largest donations received from an alum-owned and family-operated business.

“As president of Mott Electric, and a BCIT alumnus, this is a full circle moment to give back and help transform the very place that I once trained at as a young electrical apprentice,” said Mott. “I feel extremely proud to support future trades students and hope the expansion of the pavilion will benefit and prepare future trades professionals in the province and in our communities.”

The Mott Electric Pavilion will be a purpose-built space, featuring hands-on training and skills development in the emerging areas of renewable energy, robotics, and automated controls.

Located in the BCIT Trades and Technology Complex, the Pavilion will help meet the growing demand for skilled electrical professionals across the province. Currently, BCIT Electrical Trades program is the largest trades program at BCIT with approximately 2,000 electrical trades students enrolled annually and with an extended waitlist. The pavilion will help alleviate waitlists and provide enhanced training environment for thousands of trades students annually once completed.

“The Mott Electric Pavilion exemplifies the strong tie that BCIT has with industry – collaborating to expand training capacities and meet the demands of the workforce,” said Dr. Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT. “The pavilion is an important part of the BCIT Trades and Technology Complex – a comprehensive set of new buildings and upgrades to support adaptive 21st century trades education. Thanks to Mott Electric and Dan Mott for leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit generations of trades professionals.”

Urban renewal in the heart of Toronto

A mixed-use, master-planned community is set to emerge at the prominent intersection of Bloor Street West and Dufferin Street in Toronto, introducing 1,000 new rental units to the market. To bring the impressive project to life, Hazelview Investments recently secured one of the largest Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)-insured loans issued under the MLI Select program, provided by First National Financial LP.

“Securing this financing reflects our belief that doing the right thing for communities also delivers long-term value for investors,” said Michael Williams, Head of Development at Hazelview Investments. “The scale and structure of this loan allow us to move forward confidently with a project that meets high standards for livability, sustainability, and financial performance.”

According to Williams, Hazelview’s application to CMHC qualified under both the energy efficiency and accessibility categories of the MLI Select program.

“The development surpassed baseline requirements, resulting in a total of 120 points above the program’s maximum benefits threshold,” he said. “By aligning our strategy with housing priorities across all levels, we can access top-tier financing solutions that enhance project performance and mitigate long-term risk.”

CMHC’s MLI Select program is an “innovative financing solution” for multi-unit housing projects focusing on affordability, accessibility, and climate compatibility. Through the program, developers can earn points based on their commitment to prioritizing all, or some, of these areas, with better insurance incentives for projects that earn higher points.

Hazelview’s Bloor and Dufferin project aims to exceed the National Energy Code for Buildings (2017) with savings of roughly 40 per cent, earning it the full 100-point energy efficiency incentive. Plans for the community include an array of systems and features intended to drive meaningful reductions in both energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while also leading to enhanced indoor comfort, better air quality, and reduced utility costs for future residents.

On the accessibility front, the project achieved an additional 20 points through Rick Hansen Foundation Level 1 certification, having complied with CSA B651:23, ensuring that all homes are 100 per cent visitable and all common areas are barrier-free.

But more than just a “one-off” project, the Bloor and Dufferin property is part of a broader vision by Hazelview to deliver long-term community value. In addition to the development site itself, a $79.8 million community benefits package has been added—including a $12.5 million cash contribution to establish land trusts to create and support additional affordable housing. According to Williams, these elements were designed with the surrounding neighbourhood in mind, with housing, amenities, and infrastructure integrated into one connected plan.

Community benefits include:

a new City-owned community hub and daycare on the first two floors of the former Kent School building
an 8-storey building with 56 purpose-built units for City-run affordable rental housing
a new bus-accessible public road that prioritizes safety and public transportation
a new public park
an underground pedestrian tunnel liking residents to the Dufferin TTC subway station

“Bloor Street is one of those centrepieces of Toronto,” said Barry Gidney, AVP, Commercial, First National Financial LP. “It’s a historic street that defines the east-west spine of the city. Hazelview’s vision for this landmark corner of Bloor St. W and Dufferin Ave., helps raise the standard for apartment living in our city, one that we have yet to see at this quality and scale. They are helping create a true vertical neighbourhood, that is accessible, sustainable, and family-oriented. It’s the kind of multi-unit housing Toronto needs very badly, and we are thrilled that we were able to help support that vision.”

When complete, the Bloor and Dufferin development will include several residential buildings, office and retail space, ample green space, private and public streets, key community services, and direct access to the Dufferin subway station. Hazelview and Fitzrovia took over as co-development managers for the project in 2021, with a shared aspiration to create “a world-class example of community-oriented, pedestrian-first, mixed-use urban design,” and soon that will vision will become a reality.

Check back for updates, or visit: Bloor & Dufferin – Hazelview.

Social media and your cleaning company

Marketing is a crucial part of building your brand and growing your business. While traditional marketing is certainly still valuable, social media is a valuable tool for all companies looking to increase sales and broaden their customer base, including commercial cleaning companies.

Studies show that 95 per cent of businesses use social media and 75 per cent have seen an increase in traffic as a result of these efforts. Often, business owners find social media daunting, but there are a few simple steps you can take to find success on your channels.

Tell your story

Social media is a great platform to introduce yourself and reach new customers. Telling your story means being transparent and authentic, sharing content like cleaning videos, introducing your employees, talking about your history, and sharing your vision. Many consumers are looking to align themselves with like-minded businesses, so if you are focused on sustainability, use local products, or can promote anything else that sets you apart, be sure to make that a focus, too. Setting yourself apart while connecting with potential customers is how you will find success on social media.

The best part of this strategy is that your content doesn’t need to be perfect – being authentic means that everything is not polished, so if you’re newer to social media, there’s room to grow.

64 per cent of consumers want companies to connect with them, and because consumers like doing business with companies they know, so help new customers get to know you with a real, relevant, interesting content that shows the heart of your business.

Become the expert

Once you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to gain some credibility in your field and build trust in your business to reach a larger audience and attract new clients. Start this process by posting content that informs and entertains. For example, send out stain removal tips, post videos of sanitizing spaces, share before and after photos, and describe the equipment or products you use, and why. This type of content reminds your audience why they need an expert to perform the tasks you specialize in, and it builds confidence that you are an expert in your field.

Following that, lean on your existing customers to help you sell yourself. Ask happy customers to post testimonials, share positive reviews, and like and comment on your posts. Studies show that social media and online reviews are effective referral marketing. Here are a few stats to support this:

91 per cent of customersuse an online review before making a purchase.
87 per cent of customers say that online reviews have a larger impact on purchasing decisions than influencer content.
Positive online reviews can increase conversion rates by up to 370 per cent.

Referral marketing helps bring peace of mind to new customers, building confidence and trust in your business before they even become customers. By leveraging your existing customers, you can build a path for new customers to learn about you and trust your business through social media.

Create a community

When you start to grow your audience, it’s important to remember the connection you’re trying to build. It’s not enough to post content and hope business will come your way. Building a community is how you keep your audience engaged and interested in your business. In fact, 78 per cent of consumers want brands to use social to help people connect, and that connection helps build loyalty for your business. When customers feel connected to companies, 57 per cent of people will increase their spending with that brand, and 76 per cent choose them over the competition.

Interacting with your audience is the best way to keep conversation flowing and stay top of mind. Use hashtags to attract users interested in your subject matter, address every comment on our pages, follow like-minded businesses, and encourage your audience to share your posts. These steps will help you keep people engaged, thinking of you, and will help you reach more people to grow your audience and potential customer pool.

Social media can seem time-consuming and complicated, but if you focus on attracting the audience you want with authentic, interesting, informative content, you will see your numbers rise as you build your brand and reach more potential customers.

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