Calls for crackdown on illegal Airbnb rentals after deadly fire in Old Montreal

"We shouldn't have to wait for the seven deaths for such measures," says Glenn Castanheira of Montreal centre-ville, on illegal Airbnbs, like those in the Old Montreal building that broke out in a deadly fire. Alyssia Rubertucci reports.

By Alyssia Rubertucci

Posted March 22, 2023 5:49 pm.

Last Updated March 22, 2023 6:58 pm.

A second body was recovered after last week’s deadly fire in Old Montreal, and the first victim was identified.

Five more people are missing, as police continue the search operation.

LATEST: First victim of Old Montreal fire identified as 76-year-old Camille Maheux

Several of the presumed victims are believed to be tourists who were renting Airbnbs while visiting Montreal, which are illegal in the area.

Some say there should have been a crackdown on the units before the tragedy.

“We shouldn’t have to wait for the seven deaths for such measures,” said Glenn Castanheira, the general manager of Montréal centre-ville.

“We heard the mayor mentioned there would now be a task force for inspection, which should have been done years ago, according to us. We heard the Quebec government say that it would dedicate a team specifically for Montreal, which again should have been done years ago.”

It’s alleged several Airbnbs were operating in the building.

MORE ON OLD MONTREAL FIRE:

A lawyer for the owner of the building had recently said the rentals were operated by tenants and that steps had been taken to stop the practice.

“It’s an average of 90 per cent of our listings that are illegal,” said Castanheira. “Ninety per cent. Could you imagine how unacceptable it would be if 90 per cent of our hotels would not be legitimate? That’s something that’s completely unacceptable.

“We really want to see is extremely strict laws and rules regulations.”

At least one of the apartments is said to have been windowless.

“It’s not surprising as well that something’s going to happen in Montreal because there are various problems regarding inspections on buildings,” said Cédric Dussault of the Coalition of Housing Committees and Tenants Associations of Quebec’s (RCLALQ).

“There is not a lot done on this subject as well as for the security of the building.”

Firefighters continue the search for victims Monday, March 20, 2023 at the scene of last week’s fire that left one person dead and six people missing in Montreal.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

In the aftermath of the fatal fire, Quebec says it plans to strengthen legislation surrounding Airbnbs. The province has suggested making permit numbers a requirement on the listings, something that may be challenging for the government.

“It must be ready for a battle against a giant like Airbnb,” said Dussault. “And it must be ready to go to court to apply its own regulation.”

Quebec Premier François Legault says more inspections are needed when it comes to illegal rentals.

“If it’s people from Quebec or outside Quebec, we have to make sure that our buildings are in good shape,” said the premier. “It has nothing to do with Airbnb. We need to make sure people can exit rapidly.”

Some say the safety of those in Montreal accommodations needs to be top priority.

“It only takes a second to lose a reputation,” said Castanheira. “And incidents like this not only cause prejudice to our reputation. And so far, the response we’ve been seeing from authorities is nothing to reassure either industry or travellers who are still looking for answers.”