M-200 By-Law: Respecting Standards for Residential Occupancies
Step 1: Problem Identified
The M-200 By-Law is the minimum standard to which residential buildings in Halifax Regional Municipality must be maintained. If a building is suspected to be non-compliant with the M-200 By-Law, it should be reported to the municipality.
Step 2: Creating a Service Request
When a suspected non-compliant condition is identified, the occupant may report the condition to the municipality. A service request will be created and assigned to an inspector. The inspector will follow-up if the customer provides their contact information. If deemed necessary by the inspector, an inspection will be scheduled.
To report a non-compliant condition:
Call: 311
Email: contactus@311.halifax.ca
Step 3: Site Inspection
If non-compliant conditions are identified by the inspector during the inspection, the owner of the property will be ordered to bring the issues into compliance.
The M-200 By-Law is intended to maintain all residential buildings to the standard to which they were required to be built. All renovations, new construction, repairs to existing buildings, and replacement of structures, such as decks, must meet current code requirements and require permits. If it is suspected work has taken place without a permit, this should be reported to the municipality.
Step 4: Compliance
The owner will be given time to complete the work required, which may be extended at the discretion of the inspector. The case will remain with the assigned inspector until it has been resolved. If necessary, the inspector may use alternate means to bring the building into compliance.
FAQ's
- What buildings are covered under the M-200 By-Law?
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Most types of residential occupancies are covered under this By-Law. Examples of residential occupancies include houses, apartments, condos, bedrooms, rooming houses and mini-suites.
The municipality does not have jurisdiction over public housing programs that are run by provincial or federal government.
- When should I report a non-compliant condition?
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If you believe that violations of the M-200 By-Law are present in the home you are renting, they should be brought to the attention of the owner or property manager. If the issues remain unresolved, it should be reported to the municipality.
- Where do I report a non-compliant condition?
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Call: 311
Email: contactus@311.halifax.ca
- Who will do my inspection?
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A municipal fire inspector will be assigned the service request, conduct the inspection and will be the main point of contact for the duration of the case.
- What will the inspector look for?
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The inspector will address any concerns you have, in addition to inspecting for all requirements of the By-Law. The requirements of the By-Law include but are not limited to the following:
- Fire Prevention
- Structural Soundness
- Drainage
- Foundations
- Windows and Doors
- Egress and Exiting
- Decks
- Elevators
- Stairs
- Fireplaces, Fuel Burning Appliances and Chimneys
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Ventilation
- Health Concerns
- Can the inspector resolve tenancy disputes or get me out of my lease?
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No, the focus of the M-200 By-Law is building safety; if you require assistance with a tenant-landlord dispute or early lease termination please contact the Residential Tenancy Program of Nova Scotia.
M-200 By-Law Brochure (Printable PDF)