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In Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, a senior couple is grappling with a financial crisis as they await a hearing with the province’s tenancy board. Janice and Ed Lalonde find themselves in a precarious situation, paying rent for two apartments while being locked out of one.
This predicament has left them feeling overwhelmed and financially stretched.
The struggle of dual rent payments
Janice expressed her frustration, stating, “I’m paying for an empty apartment I don’t have keys to and I’m not allowed access to.” The couple had recently secured what they described as their “dream apartment,” only to discover that their previous landlords were unwilling to release them from their lease, which is set to expire in October.
As a result, they are burdened with the financial responsibility of both properties.
The Lalondes are currently paying $1,425 per month for their new apartment, alongside an additional $2,275 for their old place, not including electricity costs. This double financial obligation has taken a toll on their well-being, forcing Ed to return to work full-time at an age when he should be enjoying retirement.
Janice has even resorted to selling her wedding rings to make ends meet, highlighting the severity of their situation.
Attempts to resolve the situation
Despite their efforts to sublet the old apartment, the couple has struggled to find tenants approved by their former landlords.
Janice shared, “We agreed to everything, simply because we didn’t want a fight.” Their willingness to avoid conflict has only compounded their financial woes, leaving them in a state of uncertainty as they await the tenancy board’s decision.
Global News reached out to the Lalondes’ former landlords for comment, but they declined to discuss the ongoing case.
The couple remains hopeful that the upcoming hearing will provide them with a resolution, allowing them to escape the burden of their old lease.
Looking ahead with hope
As they navigate this challenging period, Janice and Ed are focused on finding a way out of their financial nightmare.
Janice expressed her desire not to harm anyone but emphasized the urgency of their situation, stating, “I just can’t afford to lose whatever I have left to pay for two apartments.” The couple’s story sheds light on the broader issue of housing stability and the challenges faced by many tenants in similar situations.
With the hearing approaching, the Lalondes remain optimistic that justice will prevail, allowing them to move forward without the weight of dual rent payments. Their experience serves as a reminder of the importance of tenant rights and the need for fair housing practices in today’s economy.
