Operating a business carries risks, but there’s help available
Upon reading the articles (Lethbridge Herald) pertaining to Galt Manor apartments and letter writer Barrie Orich, I have a much different opinion of the situation. Before judgment or opinions are accepted, perhaps more questions should be asked of this scenario.
Mr. Cutler’s demise is a direct result of his lack of business and landlord experience. Mr. Cutler claims he started the rental property business with good older tenants. So what happened to the good tenants?
I would think that over a matter of time, Mr. Cutler replaced his good tenants with anyone that came asking for a rental accommodation.
In the rental business there are rules and guidelines all landlords should research and adhere to fulfill. Consumer and Corporate Affairs is the governing body that enacts and enforces the Residential Tenancies Act. All landlords and tenants should be aware of the Act and adhere to the guidelines implemented. Terminations, covenants, recovery of damages, resolutions and remedies are all covered under the Act. Copies of the Statutes of Alberta Residential Tenancies Act are available from Alberta Queen’s Printer or on line for purchase or viewing.
An application with careful screening is the first step in acquiring responsible tenants. A signed Residential Tenancy Agreement and an inspection report are vital and are requirements in accordance with the Residential Tenancies Act. Did Mr. Cutler fulfill all of these requirements?
If a landlord faces litigation proceedings, it is highly unlikely a judge will award a judgment without proper documentation and disclosure. Consumer and Corporate Affairs, Alberta Health Services, Fire Prevention officers and City building inspectors all have sweeping powers and are willing to help in resolving issues regarding landlord or tenants but you must contact them. Ramblings and musings achieve little success. The city and councillors did not cause Mr. Cutler’s misfortunes. It is irresponsible to “fantasize” such a notion. And, the members of the Lethbridge Police Service have criminal activities to act on rather than settle civil disputes.
The City and provincial government cannot be held accountable or responsible for any business’s decline let alone repairs to a building. If that was the case, every business owner would ask for taxpayers’ money to repair their businesses rather than have a contingency fund for operations. There is great risk in operating any business and the entrepreneur must consider all aspects prior to purchasing or obtaining. There is help available for those who ask.
Stan Adamus
Lethbridge