1. THE
PROPERTY
STANDARD
OAPSO Annual Training Session:
St. Lawrence College
Kingston, ON
May 24-29, 2015
OAPSO Mailing Address:
PO Box 43209
3980 Grand Park Dr.
Mississauga
Ontario
L5B 4A7
Winter 2014
“Striving to provide a better place to live”

2. What’s Inside
As we start a new year, I find it necessary to take a look back at 2014. Your
Association continues to represent the interests of By-law Enforcement Officers in
general and Property Standards Officers in particular throughout Ontario.
We had a very successful Annual Training Session and Conference at Seneca College
in King City, with an equally successful Regional Conference hosted by the City of
Vaughan.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of members of your Board of
Directors for all of their efforts during the past year, and I would like to thank
Director Catherine Goddard especially as she undertook not only the organization of
the Regional Conference and the Part 4 Professional Development component of
the Annual Training Session and Conference, which is a regular part of her
responsibilities as the chair of the Professional Development Committee, but also as
the main contact person for the Annual Training Session and Conference
which entails organizing the venue, the accommodation, the meals and all of the
incidentals. Catherine Thank You.
2014 also presented us with the report from the Belanger inquiry into the collapse
of the Algo Mall in the City of Elliot Lake. On reviewing the report I was
disappointed when I realized that the report had failed to recognize the
fundamental difference in the Building Inspection and Property Standards
disciplines. It did however recommend mandatory ongoing training
for all Building Officials and Inspectors. Inasmuch as Property Standards Officers
were not specifically identified in the report, the term "Officer' is defined as a
"Property Standards Officer" within the Building Code Act and in my view fully falls
within the category of Building Official. It is my hope that during and after my term
of office, this Association will continue to encourage the provincial government to
require both the mandatory certification and maintenance of Property Standards
officers. Inasmuch as the tragedy in Elliott Lake was the culmination of a series of
events over a period of years, had the Property Standards By-law been aggressively
and professionally enforced it is my opinion that the collapse could well have been
avoided.
In my last Presidents message I stated my intention to step down from the Board
during the 2015 Annual General Meeting by not accepting a nomination to
continue. This still remains my intent.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my current and past colleagues for the
opportunity to work with some of the finest By-law Enforcement professionals that I
have ever the pleasure of Associating with. Not only has my time on the board been
rewarding professionally but I have made and will endeavour to maintain some of
my closest friendships.
Thank You
Warwick R. Perrin
O.A.P.S.O President 2011-2015"
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE:
Warwick Perrin
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE 1
CODE OF ETHICS 2
OAPSO 2015 ATS 3
ATS APPLICATON FORM 4
IN MEMORIUM 5
HUMAN TRAFFICKING 6
2014 REGIONAL 8
JAIL TIME 10
OBOA NEWS 11
AGENTS ON THE HOOK 12
CERTIFICATION NEWS 13
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 14
CERTIFICATION APPLICATION 15
RISK MANAGEMENT UPDATE 16
FROM THE EDITOR 17
FALLSVIEW FOR MEMBERS 18
2015 OAPSO BOARD 19
Groundhog Day:
Groundhog Day is February 2, and is
celebrated in Canada and the US.
According to legend, the groundhog
emerges from its burrow at noon
on that day to look for its shadow. If
it is a sunny day and the groundhog
sees its shadow, according to
folklore it becomes frightened and
returns to its hole to sleep, and
winter continues for 6 more weeks.
If it does not see its shadow, it
remains outside because the worst
of winter is over and warmer
weather is on its way.

3. CODE OF ETHICS
A Property Standards Officer owes certain duties to the public, to his employers, to other members
of his profession, and to himself and shall act at all times with:
a) fairness and loyalty to his associates, employers, and the public
b) fidelity to public needs
c) devotion to high ideals of personal honour and professional integrity.
A Property Standards Officer shall:
a) regard his duty to public welfare as paramount.
b) endeavour at all times to enhance the public regard for his profession and his Municipality, by extending
the public image thereof.
c) not give opinions or make statements on matters relating to property maintenance unless he clearly
discloses on whose behalf he is giving the opinion or making these statements.
d) not express publicly or while he is serving as a witness before a court, commission or other tribunal,
opinions on property maintenance matters that are not founded on adequate knowledge or honest
conviction.
e) make effective provisions for safety of life and health of a person who may be affected by work for
which he has ordered and at all times shall act to correct or report any situation which he feels may
endanger the safety or the welfare of the public.
f) make effective provision for meeting lawful standards, rules or regulations relating to environmental
control and protection, in connection with any work he has ordered.
A Property Standards Officer for his employer shall:
a) act as a faithful agent or trustee and shall regard as confidential, any information obtained by him as to
the business affairs, methods or processes of his employer and avoid or disclose any conflict of interest
which might influence his actions or judgement.
b) present clearly to his employers, the consequences to be expected from any deviation proposed in the
administration of his duties and responsibilities as designated by statutes, where he is responsible for the technical
adequacy of professional work.
c) have no interest, direct or indirect, in any materials, supplies of equipment used by his employer or in
any person of firms receiving contracts from his employer unless he informs his employer in advance of the nature
of the interest.
d) discloses immediately, any interest, direct or indirect which might in any way be construed as
prejudicial to his professional judgement.
e) carry out his work in accordance with applicable statutes, regulations, codes and by-laws.
f) co-operate as necessary in working with other professionals as may be engaged on a project.
A Property Standards Officer shall:
a) maintain the honour and integrity of his profession and without fear or favour expose before the proper
tribunals unprofessional or dishonest conduct by any other member of the profession.
b) Undertake only such work as he is competent to perform by virtue of his training and experience, and
where advisable, retain and co-operate with other professionals or specialists.
ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF PROPERTY STANDARDS
OFFICERS

4. Set within the heart of Kingston along the Lake Ontario coast
line you will find the St. Lawrence Conference and Residence
Centre. From May 25th
to May 29th
2015 this newly renovated
and up to date Campus and Residence Centre will be host to
OAPSO’s 2015 Annual Training and Seminar Conference.
From the moment you arrive, you notice the outstanding
attributes of this well maintained and stylish campus, as well
as all the added benefits it has to offer. From the extravagant
lobby to the accommodating residence staff, your satisfaction
is guaranteed.
In addition to the beautiful landscaping and interior finishes,
the Residence staff are happy to grant us with a unique
opportunity, providing each member with their own private
suite. These single rooms include a private three piece
bathroom, wardrobe, mini fridge, study area and air
conditioning. Each room overlooks one of the many breath
taking views of the property, allowing each member to relax in
style at the end of their busy day.
And let’s not forget the
Monday Night Social.
The OAPSO Board
of Directors are
excited to invite
you to join us on
a three hour tour
of the 1000
Islands aboard The
River Queen.
Discover local islands
and sights such as Fort
Henry, Kingston Penitentiary, and the Museum Ship, The
Alexander Henry along Kingston's historic waterfront. In
addition to the breathtaking sites of the St. Lawrence River,
you will also enjoy a superb buffet style sit down meal. This is
sure to be an astounding evening, filled with good times and
providing excellent networking opportunities. We look
forward to seeing everyone there.
So mark the date on your calendars and be sure to keep an eye
on the Website for more intriguing information. We will surely
fill your days with knowledge and fill your nights with fun and
excitement.
# 1 Entertainment -
The band delivers
entertainment - both
as talented musicians
and as fun, energetic
crowd pleasers. They
have an impressive
musical range and
can spontaneously
deliver almost any
musical request.
OAPSO 2015 ATS-KINGSTON
ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE

5. APPLICATION FORM
Certified Property Standards Officer Training Program-2015 Annual Training Seminar
(St. Lawrence College, Kingston, Ontario - May 25th
to 29th
, 2015)
First
Name:
Last
Name:
M
F
Municipality or
Employer:
Address to which all correspondence is to be sent:
Email: Phone:
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION: Note: With the exception of the challenge test, exams and material s will be provided only to
participants who attend all week.
For “Single Day” attendance please
indicate which date(s) attending:
PLEASE INDICATE WHICH COURSE YOU WOULD LIKE
TO ATTEND:
FULL DAY SINGLE DAY NON MEMBER
Part 1 (Basic) $1,035.00 $708.00 N/A $1,215.00
Part 2 (Intermediate) $1,035.00 $708.00 N/A $1,215.00
Part 3 (Advanced) $1,035.00 $708.00 N/A $1, 215.00
Part 4 (Professional Development) $840.00 $610.00 $180.00 $940.00
A cheque, in the amount of $_______________ is attached, (cheques must be made payable to O.A.P.S.O.).
Please note: Refunds are subject to a 20% administration fee.
PLEASE ADVISE OF ANY FOOD ALLERGIES:
Applicant Signature: Date:
PLEASE MAIL APPLICATIONS
AND PAYMENTS TO:
Craig Calder, O.A.P.S.O. Vice President
c/o 140 Whitewater Street
Ottawa, Ontario
K2G 7A3
Day
Package
Includes: All meals,
training materials and
exam
Full
Package
Includes: All meals,
accommodation,
training materials &
Exam
Single Day
Package
Includes:All meals,
and accommodations

6. William
(Bill) Smith
It is with much
sadness that the
family of Bill Smith
announce his passing
on Saturday, October
18, 2014, only 4
months after losing
his dear wife Carol.
Bill passed away at
home with the love of
his family by his side after a brief battle with cancer at the
age of 69.
“ Please take comfort in knowing that Bill was respected and
admired by all and he will be sadly missed. The OAPSO
Certification Training Team in particular has lost one of its
Senior Instructors - someone not easily replaceable. His
knowledge and expertise however were clearly outweighed
by his poise, class, and dignity as a human being - a true
gentleman. May he rest in eternal peace,,,,,”
Joe Luzi OAPSO Board of Director
Douglas
Werden
It is with much sadness
that the OAPSO Board of
Directors learn of the
passing of Doug Werden.
Doug was a Certified
member of OAPSO for many years, recently retiring from
the City of Kingston to enjoy time with his family and
friends. We wish to express our condolences, not only to
Doug’s immediately family, but to his family at the City of
Kingston as well.
Ron Charlebois
started with the City of Barrie in
December 1989 and retired in
January 2005. Ron was the
Senior Property Standards
Officer, also known as the
immediate go to guy, as there
was no one else that knew the
nature of our work better than
Ron. Ron was the person who helped build the foundation
for the Property Standards Division which is a now a
respected part of the Building and By-law Services
Department. Ron fought long and hard to have the work
done by Property Standards Officers, respected and
acknowledged. We have continued to build upon his good
work and will ensure that his legacy continues at the City of
Barrie. Rest in Peace our friend and colleague.
Cathy Porter, City of Barry and
Catherine Goddard, Board of Director
IN MEMORIAM

7. What is the difference between human trafficking and human
smuggling?
Human trafficking and human smuggling are not the same thing. The
differences are as follows:
Human Trafficking
involves the
recruitment,
transportation or
harbouring of
persons for the
purpose of
exploitation (typically
in the sex industry or
for forced labour).
Traffickers use various methods to maintain control over their victims,
including force, sexual assault, threats of violence and physical or
emotional abuse. Human trafficking may occur across or within
borders, may involve extensive organized crime networks, and is clearly
a violation of the basic human rights of its victims. The relationship
between the trafficker and the victim is continuous and extends
beyond the border crossing. Victims may be forced into labour,
prostitution or some other form of servitude. Victims may suffer abuse
from their traffickers and may face severe consequences if they
attempt to escape.
A distinction between international and domestic human trafficking is
made by the RCMP for law enforcement purposes in order to
determine the application of the appropriate piece of legislation as well
as determine the jurisdictions based on law enforcement mandates.
The RCMP defines these two concepts as follows:
Domestic Human Trafficking refers to any victim of human trafficking
who is trafficked within Canada (regardless of the victim's status).
International Human Trafficking refers to any victim of human
trafficking who, in the process of being trafficked, crossed an
international border (regardless of the victim's status).
Human smuggling is a form of illegal migration involving the organized
transport of a person across an international border, usually in
exchange for a sum of money and sometimes in dangerous conditions.
When the final destination is reached the business relationship ends,
and the smuggler and the individual part company. In some cases, a
person who has agreed to be smuggled into a country becomes a
trafficking victim at the hands of the smuggler.
Who would be vulnerable to becoming a victim of domestic or
international HT in Canada?
Vulnerable populations at risk of becoming trafficked include migrant
workers, new immigrants, youth, Aboriginal women and girls, those
who are socially or economically disadvantaged, or those who may have
been lured to urban centres or have gone of their own free will with the
hopes of bettering their lives.
Convictions for human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation
demonstrate that Canadian girls and women are often victims.
Who are the traffickers?
The involvement of transnational organized crime groups in human
trafficking is part of a growing global trend. Human trafficking generates
huge profits for criminal organizations, which often have operations
extending from the source to the destination countries. These
transnational crime networks also utilize smaller, decentralized criminal
groups that may specialize in recruiting, transporting or harbouring
victims. Human trafficking is also known to be perpetrated by small
family criminal groups who control the entire operation. Individuals
working independently also traffic persons for profit/personal gain.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
I'm Not for Sale

8. How are victims recruited and controlled?
Traffickers approach potential victims in a variety of manners including:
 direct contact with the person
 direct contact with family and relatives
 agents who scout for potential victims in source regions,
sometimes representing themselves as a potential sponsor or love
interest
 misleading advertisements promising jobs and opportunity
 contact on the internet
More abusive methods are also used and range from:
 coerced compliance
 extortion
 kidnapping
 servitude
 violence, including physical and emotional abuse
Human trafficking may occur locally or domestically, without any movement, such as within the same city.
In international cases, victims may be transported by plane, boat, train or any type of vehicle, and often a combination of them, using genuine
and/or fraudulent documents that are usually removed from them upon arrival at their destination.
Victims may be isolated and/or taken to illicit businesses where they may be subjected to physical and sexual abuse and concealment. They may be
forced to perform a variety of services including working in the sex trade, factories, restaurants, agriculture, or providing domestic work.
How would I recognize a victim? (Usually includes a combination of indicators).
 they may be controlled or intimidated by someone else (i.e. being escorted or watched)
 they may not speak on their own behalf and may not be English/French speaking
 they may not have a passport or other I.D.
 they may not be familiar with the neighborhood they live/work in
 they may be moved frequently by their traffickers
 they may have injuries/bruises from beatings and/or weapons
 they may show visible signs of torture i.e. cigarette burns, cuts
 they may show visible signs of branding or scarring (indicating ownership by the trafficker)
 they may show signs of malnourishment
 they may express fear and intimidation through facial expressions and/or body language
Where can I find more information on human trafficking?
For more information, visit http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/ht-tp/index-eng.htm.
Promises, Money, Seduction,
Manipulation,
Intimidation, Threats, Exploitation,
Pimps
Forced Prostitution =
Human Trafficking =
Crime

9. Catherine Goddard, our Regional Conference Chair did an
outstanding job of organizing this year’s Regional Conference,
which was held on November 21, 2014, at the brand new
Vaughan City Hall. What a beautiful building! We had a large
group – over 80 registrants –
After Registration, We
were all given a warm
welcome from the City
of Vaughan's
Mayor, Maurizio Bevilacqua.
OAPSO president Warwick Perrin updated us on the Elliott Lake
Algo Centre Mall inquiry.
Mary Jane South, Deputy
Registrar with the Ontario
Motor Vehicle Industry
Council (OMVIC) shared a very
interesting presentation.
OMVIC was created in 1997,
approximately 25 per cent of
all private classified ads,
including online ads, are posted by curbsiders – unlicensed motor
vehicle dealers. Curbsiders are in the business of selling cars;
however, they are not registered and usually pose as private
sellers. The vehicles they sell are often accident repaired or
odometer tampered; many aren’t fit for the road. There is an
online complaint process to report dealers:
https://www.omvic.on.ca/Complaints/ComplaintForm.aspx
Serial numbers and/or VIN’s are helpful. Their online website is a
useful tool, you can find a database of fines, you can search by
name to see if a dealer’s name is registered. Calling 1-800-
NOCURBS to report dealers you suspect are curbsiders.
Carol O’Neil, CRTS, CDE, HRD and Mark Clarke, CPPA, Hoarding
Support Services (HSS) Corp shared with us a wealth of
information regarding Hoarding and Mental Health. Their
organization oversees the
hoarding clean-ups and deal
directly with the hoarder in a
dignified fashion.
Currently they service the
GTA, Durham Region,
Peterborough, Brock
Township and
Northumberland County. They specialize in the re-organization of
living space and content disposal. This is implemented with a
gradual and compassionate approach. Their program achieves
successful results with reduced anxiety through-out the process:
Their Website: www.hoardingcleanupspecialists.com
Paul Martin (right), Supervisor
of Special Services Section
with the Ontario Judicial
Service, and Nir Maman, with
the Ontario Use of Force
Training Institute – both
members of the Ontario
Judicial Service Summons
Office – A Canadian Law Enforcement and support Agency. They
serve as an alternative to any class of Peace Officer including a
Police Officer for the service of summonses and subpoena.
Paul and Nir are both certified use of force officers and members
of CTOA - Canadian Tactical officers Association – which is a non-
profit, fraternal organization directed by the needs of Canadian
Tactical officers and law enforcement. Their agents are former
police, military or professional security personnel. They serve
documents for any Canadian Police Service that have a document
for service within York Region 1-800-492-1606
Shayne Turner, Director of
Enforcement with the City of
Kitchener, and previous
OAPSO Board Member,
presented us with a Risk
Mitigation Update.
REGIONAL 2015
Catherine Goddard

10. The Last presenters of the day were Detectives; Colin Organ and
Tom Cober with the Drugs and Vice unit of York Regional Police.
Their pictures are not shown for obvious reasons. They spoke to
us about Human Trafficking.
During inspections, all Property Standard Officers should be aware
of their surroundings, Take notice during lodging house
inspections or similar interior inspections for the possible
indicators of a property being used for human trafficking in the
sex trade;
 Numerous Vanilla Cards lying around
 Bags of fresh towels
 Suitcases packed and ready to go,
 Baby oil and wipes
 A variety of cell phones
 Prophylactics
 Papers/notes with logs of times
The presentation was
well received. The
Detectives suggested
watching the W5 show
titled: “Rescuing the Girl
next Door” from the Sex
Trade, published in 2012
for further information.
 Public Safety Canada Website
 120 Charges Laid in York Region for Human trafficking bust
 Women's Support Network of York Region
Some of the winners of our many give-a-ways
It was a full day of information and social networking. If you were
not able to attend, hopefully this article will give you an idea of
the day's activities.
Article provided by: Kimberly Bimm. OAPSO Media Chair
Property Standards Appeal Committee
Training
OAPSO continues to deliver its Property Standards Appeal
Committee training program to committee members and
Committee support staff. The Program is half-day in length and
the cost is $51/attendee.
Please be aware that we need a minimum of 10 registrants. For
smaller municipalities, please contact neighbouring
municipalities as well, to conduct the session, so that we can
capture as many Committee members and staff as possible
while holding the session in their particular area.
Registration can be arranged by contacting OAPSO Professional
Development Chair, Catherine Goddard
The course content will include;
 Enforcement
 The Bylaw
 The Property Standards Order
 The Legislation (The Building Code Act)
 The Committee
 The Hearing itself
 Appeals
 Case Law
Speakers Bureau
The O.A.P.S.O. (Ontario Association of Property
Standards Officers) is a leading voice in the advocacy
of By-law Enforcement within the province. As a part
of this advocacy the Association is prepared to
provide knowledgeable speakers to address member
& non member municipalities, crime prevention
groups or other community minded groups.
O.A.P.S.O. is a non profit organization so a cost to
cover expenses will be made.
Please follow this link to contact the Association Vice
President, Mr. Craig Calder, who will make the
necessary arrangements and calculations.

11. The following is a brief overview of the Risk
Mitigation project underway by a joint
collaborative working group from within
the Municipal Law Enforcement Officers
Association (MLEOA) and the Ontario
Association of Property Standards Officers
(OAPSO).
BACKGROUND
We know that there are a variety of risk
factors associated with MLEO work. These
factors include officer safety, varying or
inconsistent access to training, provision of
safety equipment and the development or
lack of policies and procedures. However,
probably the most important factor
affecting risk in the MLEO environment
relates to a lack of clarity regarding the
fundamental role of a MLEO and the
resulting expectations placed upon them.
We also know that how MLEO’s perform
their duties is, for the large part,
unregulated. For example, there are no
consistent standards for training, uniforms
or safety equipment, like what exists in
some other sectors of law
enforcement. Without such standards,
municipalities are left on their own to
determine what they deem to be
appropriate, or whether these issues are
even relevant. This inconsistency elevates
the level of risk to all officers.
GOAL
This collaborative undertaking seeks to
establish advice and guidelines, in the form
of a resource document, to help
municipalities address the various risk
factors that may exist in their
environment. This document will speak to
issues such as:
 the fundamental role of a MLEO and the
core competencies required to fulfil
such a role;
 fundamental training standards and on-
going training plans;
 uniforms and safety equipment; and
 policies and procedures.
STATUS
Over the past 12 to 18 months, both
associations have undertaken surveys to
their membership to help understand the
current environment. Some very
interesting and enlightening information
has been gleaned from these surveys. The
following is a brief overview:
Additional feedback includes:
 40% of respondents indicate their
municipality does not require any level
of certification;
 58% of respondents said their job
descriptions do not include law
enforcement training as a pre-requisite
to employment;
 31% of respondents indicate that they
are not issued any form of safety
equipment;
 54% of respondents indicate that they
do not feel that they are adequately
supported when making potentially
contentious decisions; and
 6% of respondents indicate that their
job duties require them to make arrests
when necessary.
NEXT STEPS
The working group is currently reviewing
all of the survey feedback to identify
common themes and areas of focus. They
intend to seek the assistance of a
facilitator to help them through this
process and begin to develop potential
strategies to help municipalities address
the various risk factors identified.
Please stay tuned for further updates on
this collaborative effort in the spring of
2015.
QUESTIONS/COMMENTS
As always, the working group welcomes
your questions or comments and can be
reached at:
 shayne.turner@kitchener.ca
 wperrin@toronto.ca
 rcharlton@haldimandcounty.on.ca
 randy.berg@guelph.ca
RISK MITIGATION IN THE MUNICIPAL
LAW ENFORCEMENT ENVIRONMENT

12. October 7, 2014 Court sends strong message to repeat offenders whose actions put
public safety at risk.
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 7, 2014 /CNW/ - On Oct. 2, 2014 a contractor was sentenced in a
Hamilton, Ontario court to 30 days in jail and $6,250 in fines on charges related to
performing electrical work illegally and violating several
Ontario College of Trade's requirements. This is the first time a jail sentence has been
handed down by an Ontario court for this type of offence. The defendant was also placed on two years’ probation.
Richard Hazel, operating as Voltcom Electrical Services, was found guilty on eight charges: four counts of working without an electrical contractor's
licence, one count of failing to obtain the required inspections, two counts of producing a false certificate of qualification, and one count of leaving
behind unsafe electrical conditions at four homes in Hamilton and Burlington. Mr. Hazel was previously convicted in 2012 on 19 counts of violating
electrical safety regulations at seven sites in the Windsor area resulting in a total fine of $23,750.
In addition to the ESA charges, Hazel pled guilty to five related charges laid by the Ontario College of Trades and was fined an additional $7,400 plus
one year probation for those offences.
In October 2013, an ESA Inspector identified a renovation in a Hamilton home had been done without a permit and determined upon further
investigation that repeat offender Richard Hazel had completed the work. Numerous electrical hazards were found. The investigation also found
that Hazel falsely produced an Ontario College of Trade's certificate of qualification in order to gain employment with two licensed electrical
contractors.
"The court has delivered a strong, clear message with this conviction and sentence that repeated, unlawful behavior that puts public safety at risk
has serious consequences. Despite previous convictions, this individual continued to flout the law," said Normand Breton, General Manager,
Registrar and Director Contractor Licensing and Powerline Safety. "We are very pleased to see that the court has taken this next important step
which we Hope will deter others in the underground economy who are working outside the law."
How to Ensure You Hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor
Consumers are reminded when considering hiring someone to do electrical work to follow 'the three C's': check to ensure the contractor holds a
valid ECRA/ESA electrical contractor licence (you can search the database at www.esasafe.com); confirm that they are arranging the appropriate
inspections from ESA; and call ESA at 1-877-ESA-SAFE (1-877-372-7233) if you suspect someone is misrepresenting themselves. "Don't settle the final
bill until you have the ESA Certificate of Inspection in hand," added Breton.
Hiring an ECRA/ESA licensed electrical contractor ensures that the company you have
hired:
 is fully insured
 uses qualified electricians to perform the electrical work you require
 will arrange for permits with the ESA
 can deliver an ESA Certificate of Inspection
About the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)
The Electrical Safety Authority's (ESA) role is to enhance public electrical safety in Ontario. As an administrative authority acting on behalf of the
Government of Ontario, ESA is responsible for administering specific regulations related to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, the licensing of
Electrical Contractors and Master Electricians, electricity distribution system safety, and electrical product safety. ESA works extensively with
stakeholders throughout the province on education, training and promotion to foster electrical safety across the province. More information on the
Electrical Safety Authority can be found at www.esasafe.com, through Twitter @HomeandSafety and on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/ElectricalSafetyAuthority SOURCE Electrical Safety Authority.
FIRST EVER JAIL SENTENCE FOR DOING
ELECTRICAL WORK WITHOUT A
LICENSE

13. 1. OBOA-Owned Training & Professional Development Update
Members should recall the announcement and commitment that “OBOA will continue its investment in training to advance the profession of
building regulators and offer the best and up-to-date training for our members” at the 2014 AMTS (Niagara Falls). Specifically, we will develop a
suite of technical training courses (Part 3, 8, 9 & 10/11). Additionally, we are creating related online training of particular benefit to members in
rural and northern communities, through conversion of classroom courses. Also, OBOA will convert the Small Buildings 2012 course to the National
Building Code platform to serve as an educational product for ACBOA members across Canada.
For more details, please read the full text of an earlier communication to members at the following link,
(http://www.oboa.on.ca/bulletin/archive/bulletin7/index.html).
3. More MMAH Changes
The MMAH is not sitting still and changes are occurring, again. To assist our members, attached is a breakdown of some:
•In October 2014, MMAH announced all BCIN exams will be administered by Humber College. This is a change for designers and building officials
because, historically, exams were administered by MMAH. The cost of writing has been raised to $150. Exams are now electronic (no paper copy).
For complete details, read more via Ontario CodeNews #233. To avoid the need to re-write a BCIN exam, we highly recommend Building Code
training before the exam. For more information, check out the Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA) website at www.oboa.on.ca and search
the training tab. Another option is to purchase the self-study manual from OBOA.
•In December 2014, Ontario CodeNews #235 stated BCIN holders will be subject to annualized registrations. This is brand NEW for building official
BCIN holders! The annual registration fee (2015 rate is $105) applies and the fee is due before March 31, 2015. The MMAH website will be revised
shortly with more information on processing, payment, etc. OBOA has learned that paying via credit card is one new option. Also, contrary to the
announcement of the changes, a municipal cheque for the registration fee does NOT have to be certified. We remind members that OBOA was the
only Association to lobby MMAH forcefully about the negative consequences of this policy.
•The new mid-rise construction (up to 6 storeys) requirements and enhanced barrier free accessible requirements including Part 11 changes that
are now in effect are being communicated more effectively. Through a partnership with MMAH, two (2) slide decks on the changes to barrier free
accessibility and new mid-rise requirements are available for FREE on the OBOA website. These are great tools to use to educate yourself and
others at Council meetings, Chapter events, or in the office.
•Check out the OBOA website regularly for more information, under Announcements.
A thank you is extended to our MMAH partner for sharing the two slide decks. Also another thank you is extended to Steven Street, Wood Works,
for being a helpful resource on the mid-rise changes.
4. New OBOA Board Appointment
At the December 2014 Board meeting, Gerald Moore, City of Guelph municipal building official, was appointed to the OBOA Board of Directors as a
Director-at-Large for a two-year period. The vacancy in Region F (GTA Chapter) following the recent election required the position to be filled with
an experienced professional that can assist with delivering the Strategic Plan. Gerald has the necessary skills and experience as a former Chief
Building Official, Chapter Chair, and facilitator of a number of OBOA training courses. Please join us in welcoming Gerald to the OBOA board.
If you have comments, questions or suggestions, please contact Aubrey or Mike directly. Until next time.
This concludes the OBOA updates on a number of important projects that the OBOA Board of Directors and CAO are following. If there are
additional questions or comments, please feel free to contact either of us directly.
We look forward to our next communication.
Best Regards,
Mike Seiling
OBOA President

14. Discipline
hearings
signal need
for fuller
knowledge
about two-
unit homes
Dreams time
photo
By: Bob Aaron Property law,
Published on Fri Oct 03 2014
Real estate agents now seem to be required to confirm the legality
of in-house apartments after recent RECO discipline decisions.
The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), the body that licenses
and governs real estate agents, is cracking down on representatives
who advertise two-unit homes without making clear whether the
second unit — usually a basement apartment — is legal.
Many agents typically use wording such as, “Agents and seller do
not warrant legal retrofit status of in-law suite.” Descriptions like
this could disappear in the wake of two recent decisions of RECO
discipline panels.
Dan Plowman has been a successful real estate agent in Whitby,
Ont. for 25 years. Last year, he listed a property, describing it as
having “income potential” with “separate entrance/in-law suite.”
The MLS listing for the property included the disclaimer that “we do
not nor does the seller warrant the legal retrofit status of the ‘in-
law suite’.”
That wording, however, did not appear on Internet listings, or on
realtor.ca.
Wording like this is common in the real estate industry and is
generally understood to mean that the basement suite is not legal.
In my experience, Plowman’s listing used wording that thousands of
Ontario agents have used and continue to use.
In a RECO discipline hearing, Plowman faced charges of acting
unprofessionally by including information in an MLS listing which
was either false, inaccurate, is representative or misleading to
consumers. It was alleged that he failed to take steps to verify the
legal status of the basement suite so that the appropriate language
could be used in the MLS listing and available to consumers.
In an agreed statement filed at his hearing in June, Plowman
admitted that he breached several sections of the RECO Code of
Ethics and was fined $5,000.
The same thing happened this past May to Tammy Loeman, an
experienced Hamilton real estate agent.
She advertised a property with the remarks: “Fabulous home used
as 2 family . . . own your own rental property or live in one unit and
let the other one pay your mortgage.” She also marketed the home
on web sites with the words “fabulous family home with income
rental.”
Loeman acted for both buyer and seller in finalizing a purchase
agreement. Unfortunately, the local zoning only permitted single-
family dwellings. The buyer was an investor who intended to rent
out both units for rental income.
His complaint was that if he knew the second unit was illegal, he
would not have bought the property, or would not have agreed to
the price in the contract.
At her discipline hearing, Loeman admitted that she acted
unprofessionally by failing to determine and disclose material facts
relating to the property. RECO fined her $10,000.
Under Ontario law, basement units that existed prior to November
1995 are exempt from meeting local zoning bylaw requirements
(but not other safety standards). The discipline panel accepted that
the basement apartment contravened the zoning bylaw, but in fact
it may have been a pre-1995 unit and perfectly legal from a zoning
viewpoint. As a result, the discipline decision could well be wrong in
law.
It is not clear whether Plowman and Loeman were represented by
legal counsel. What both Plowman and Loeman did is common
practice in the real estate industry.
It appears that RECO now requires agents to confirm whether a
basement apartment is legal — a complex task that involves
determining whether the unit complies with zoning bylaws, fire
code, building code, electrical safety requirements, and — in some
municipalities — registration and licensing.
The problem is that municipalities will not tell owners or agents
whether basement units are legal. How, then, can RECO require
agents to verify legality of those units?
Bob Aaron is a Toronto real estate lawyer. He can be reached at
bob@aaron.ca , on his website aaron.ca, and on Twitter,
@bobaaron2.
AGENTS ON THE HOOK FOR
ILLEGAL IN-LAW SUITES
Bob Aaron

15. Instructor Recruitment
OAPSO Instructor recruitment notice remains posted on our website - at the Certification Training Tab.
The need for Construction Instructors is the more urgent need for OAPSO at this time - the search for
candidates continues.
Dedicated Training Sessions
A very successful dedicated Part III Training Course was completed in Toronto the week of November 24-27, 2013, inclusive. The buzz
throughout the membership was that the training went very well, with an overall positive response to the material that was provided.
Congratulations to those moving on to Certification!
A dedicated Part I Training Course is scheduled in the City of Whitchurch-Stouffville for the week of February 23-26, 2015, inclusive.
To date we have 22 students registered from across the province with a class/venue capacity of 50 students likely to be reached.
Again we are looking forward to another successful dedicated training session.
2015 KINGSTON ATS INSTRUCTORS
Keep a look out for some new and returning faces this year at our ATS. Your proposed Instructor Team for 2015 looks to be as follows:
Part 1 Course
 Part 1 Construction - John Lane
 Part 1 Legal - Garry Anderson
 Part 1 Investigation - Warwick Perrin
Part 2 Course
 Part 2 Construction - Brian Green
 Part 2 Legal - Philip Cassata
 Part 2 Investigation - Len Creamer
Part 3 Course
 Part 3 Construction - Shelly Kunkel
 Part 3 Legal - Shayne Turner
 Part 3 Investigation - Matt Richardson
CERTIFICIATION PROGAMS
JOE LUZI
FIND US ON THE WEB!
Questions or Concerns????
Need to post a job opportunity???
Contact Kimberly Bimm

16. 2015 OAPSO MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
MEMBERSHIP TYPE:
Individual- Municipality-______________________________________
Full Membership - $70.00 Individual Member (1 vote)
Associate- Associate Membership - $27.00 Individual Member (no vote)
Venerable-Venerable Membership- $27.00 Individual Member (1 vote)
MAIN CONTACT PERSON: (example - Manager of Property Standards and/or Bylaws)
Last First Initial
EMAIL
JOB TITLE:
MAILING ADDRESS:
BUSINESS PHONE FAX#
Please note that voting at the Annual General Meeting is restricted to paid members only.
Please return this form and the staff list with your payment, made payable to –
Ontario Association of Property Standards Officers Inc.
C/O Shelly Kunkel CBCO, C.P.S.O Director - Membership and Certification Chair
100 Wellington Square Brantford, Ontario N3T 2M2
(519) 759-4150 Ext. 2315 Fax: (519) 752-1874
Email: skunkel@brantford.ca
Corporate-Municipality Name:
 Population: Fees are listed in the chart below on population
POPULATION ANNUAL FEE VOTING DELEGATES
Less than 15, 000 $70.00 1 vote
15, 001 to 50, 000 $130.00 2 votes
Over 50, 000 population $130.00 plus $70.00 for ever 50, 000 in
population (or portion thereof)
1 vote for every 50, 000 population
(or portion thereof)
VERY IMPORTANT: In order to ensure the accuracy of our records for Membership Cards, please provide
an updated listed of ALL individuals in your municipality who are involved in property standards
enforcement and wish to be included in the corporate membership, as well as their positions within the
municipality and their email address.
 Number of Members for this Corporate Membership:

17. APPLICATION FOR CERTIFIED PROPERTY STANDARDS OFFICER CPSO
Certification is available to any Full Member or Corporate Member in good standing with the Ontario
Association of Property Standards Officers (OAPSO) who meets the qualifications. Full details of the
qualification for the CPSO Certification please see the website www.OAPSO.ca
Application Check List
1. Start date in Property Standards _____________ (must have 2 years’ experience)
 Letter from your supervisor, HR department or Municipal Clerk outlining your duties as a Property Standards
Officer OR in the field of Property Standards either in enforcement, management or administration.
2. Completed the Training or Challenge Exam
 Successfully completed the multi-stage O.A.P.S.O. training courses
 Copies of all certificates or letters indicating successful completion are attached.
Part 1: (year completed)____________ Part 2: (year completed)____________ Part 3(year completed)____________
OR
 Successfully completed a Challenge Exam administered by OAPSO
Date of Exam: (year completed)____________ Name of Proctor: ________________________
 Copy of the O.A.P.S.O. certificate indicating that you successfully passed the challenge exam.
3. Your OAPSO Corporate or Individual Membership is in good standing Y / N (please circle)
4. Mail completed application form, the one-time application fee of $120.00
Made payable to
Ontario Association of Property Standards Officers (OAPSO)
C/O Shelly Kunkel CBCO, C.P.S.O
Director - Membership and Certification Chair
City of Brantford, 100 Wellington Square, Brantford, ON N3T 2M2
Full payment and all relevant documentation must accompany this application
NAME:
EMAIL:
TITLE:
MUNICIPALITY/EMPLOYER:
MAILING ADDRESS: (PLEASE PROVIDE A COURIER FRIENDLY ADDRESS)
CITY: PROVINCE: POSTAL CODE:
TELEPHONE NUMBER: FAX:
EMAIL:
Signature: Date:

18. This year the OAPSO Association suffered several upsetting
losses, including the sudden passing of Director/Instructor
William (Bill) Smith.
Bill was well known through his roles as an OAPSO Director and
instructor, but did you know that after his career as a police
officer, Bill started a by-law enforcement program in the Niagara
region, employing a multitude of officers and giving them the
chance to start a career in enforcement. Bill was a leader, an
encourager and a mentor for many, including myself.
Shortly after I heard of Bills passing, I took a moment to
remember Bill the way I knew him, how he had affected my life
and how he helped to create the person I am today.
Bill often reminded me that we aren’t just PSO’s, we have lives
outside of this job, and we should be proud of what we have
accomplished, be proud of how we have grown and developed,
and give thanks to those who helped us get to these points in our
lives, whether it be because of positive and negative influences.
Bill may have appeared to the “quiet and serious type”, however;
I remember Bill quite differently. He made me laugh often!
Especially the night I was introduced, or should I say initiated
onto the Board Of Directors. I will forever remember that evening,
and that bottle of wine. Bill reminded me it was ok to let things
roll off your back and enjoy life, after all he knew it was
precious……
Life events that touch our lives, such as this, get one thinking
about who we are, what we bring to others lives and just how well
people know each other.
I have taken advantage of a story that was recently published by
the Fort Erie Times, which showcases one of our very own Board
members (Matt Richardson), passions. Sometimes we forget
that our friends and members are more than just PSO’s,
however; this article helps to remind us of the type of people that
we associate ourselves with and why we should be proud to call
them our friends.
I encourage you all
to reach out and
share you own
stories with those
around you,
including passing
some on to me for
others to share in.
After all, it’s your
entire life that helps
develop who you
each are and the role you bring to your community as well as the
lives of those around you.
Cheers’
Kristen E. Bickers CPSO, MLEO(C)
OAPSO Board of Director
Fort Erie blaze
damages put at
$250,000
Damages are put at $250,000
after Fort Erie Fire Department
responded to this house fire.
(HARRY ROSETTANI/Special
thanks to The Times/QMI
Agency)
The cause of a structural fire that destroyed a Fort Erie home
remains unknown but damages are estimated to be $250,000.
Four fire companies from the Fort Erie Fire Department
responded to a call on Friday morning just before 8. When
firefighters arrived on scene, the home was engulfed in flames.
Thorold resident Brandon Malone, who works for Lowe’s Home
Improvement, drove past the home on his way to making his
first delivery of the day.
“I was with my co-worker and we thought we saw a farmer
burning some brush, but we realized it was a house fire,”
Malone said.
“Our first delivery of the day was just right down the road from
the fire.”
What began as a “small fire” appeared to have ignited in the
front right corner of the home,” according to Malone.
“We stopped the truck and Paul (Lavelle), started dialing 9-1-1
while I ran up to the porch and tried to open the front door.”
When Malone couldn’t open the front door, and the smoke had
become too much, he ran to the back of the house and threw
the door open.
“They had siding and their wooden porch caught on fire. That’s
when I had to leave the front of the house because it was too
bad at that point,” he said.
“I ran through the kitchen when I saw two guys who were just
waking up. They were dazed and confused and they didn’t know
their house was on fire,” he said.
Malone asked the men if there was anyone else in the home
before they all exited the building. Both tenants escaped
without harm and no one was injured as a result of the fire,
Coplen said.
Firefighters “had the blaze under control within an hour”.
“We spend about another hour and a half working on spot fires
on the overhauld of the building, “, Coplen said.
Sarah.ferguson@sunmedia.ca
FROM THE EDITORS DESK
Kristen Bickers
rs Desk…..
Kristen Bickers

19. Warwick Perrin President wperrin@toronto.ca
Garry Anderson Immediate Past President ganderson@brantford.ca
Craig Calder Vice President craig.calder@ottawa.ca
John Lane Treasurer jlane@hamilton.ca
Grace Wilson Secretary gracew@brantford.ca
Kristen Bickers Newsletter kbickers@westperth.ca
Kimberly Bimm Website Kim.bimm@kitchener.ca
Len Creamer Resolutions and By-laws/OAPSO Rep lcreamer@clarington.net
Yvonne Van Hoek Legislation Yvonne.vanhoek@mississauga.ca
Catherine Goddard Professional Development/Regional Conference Catherine.goddard@brampton.ca
Italo Joe Luzi Certificate Training/ Ministry Liaison jluzi@toronto.ca
Shelly Kunkel
Membership/
Certification skunkel@brantford.ca
Matthew Richardson Business Plan mrichardson@town.forterie.on.ca
From left to right: Catherine Goddard, Craig Calder, Garry Anderson, Shelly Kunkel, Matt Richardson, Warwick Perrin, Len Creamer, Italo Joe
Luzi, Kristen Bickers, John Lane and Rudy Puyo…..
FULL COLOUR 1 ISSUE 2 + ISSUES
FULL PAGE $500.00 $375.00
1/2 PAGE $300.00 $225.00
1/4 PAGE $175.00 $130.00
1/8 PAGE $125.00 $95.00
2015 ADVERTISING RATES
To place an advertisement in our
Newsletter “The Property Standard”,
please contact the Editor Kristen
Bickers with your request:
ckbickers@hotmail.com
The “Property Standard” newsletter is published and
made available as a PDF directly to over 1800 members
and non-members across Ontario, and includes a variety
of Provincial and Regional level government employees.
2014/2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS