The Town of Yarmouth sets minimum housing standards to protect residents’ health and safety. These rules describe the basic requirements every dwelling must meet.
Minimum requirements
- Weatherproof structure: solid walls, floors and roof.
- Secure openings: working, lockable windows and doors.
- Safe exits: clear, usable escape routes.
- Light & ventilation: adequate natural light and fresh air.
- Electricity: safe electrical service for lighting and appliances.
- Smoke alarms: installed and working.
- Plumbing: flush toilet, bath or shower, and hot and cold running water.
- Kitchen: facilities for food preparation.
- Heating: adequate heat for cold weather.
Conflicts with other bylaws
If another Town bylaw sets a higher standard, the higher requirement applies to protect public health and safety.
Complaints & questions
To report a problem or ask about standards, contact the Building Official: (902) 742-1505 or buildinginspector@townofyarmouth.ca You can also fill out and return a pdf complaint form(115 KB) .
pdf Minimum Housing By-Law(216 KB)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is considered adequate heat?
- Under the Minimum Housing By-Law, the heating system must be capable of maintaining a specific indoor temperature during cold weather (typically 20°C or 68°F, though you should reference the specific clause in the pdf By-Law PDF(216 KB) for the exact requirement). The system must be in good working order, properly vented, and safe for operation.
Q: Does the Town handle disputes between landlords and tenants?
- No. The Minimum Housing By-Law is for health and safety enforcement. If you have a dispute regarding rent, lease agreements, or tenant rights, please contact the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program at 1-800-670-4357 or https://www.novascotia.ca/residential-tenancies.
Q: What are the requirements for smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?
- Every dwelling unit must be equipped with functioning smoke alarms installed as per the manufacturer's instructions and provincial fire code. While the by-law mandates working alarms, residents are encouraged to check provincial fire safety regulations for specific placement requirements (e.g., inside every bedroom).
Q: What happens after I file a complaint?
- A Town official or Building Inspector conduct an on-site inspection, with entry into the dwelling. If a violation exists, the Town will issue an order to the property owner to bring the dwelling up to standard. The inspector will follow up to ensure compliance.