Recent media reports have revealed concerning events in Calgary wherein a private landlord's representative was charged with break and enter with the intent to commit sexual assault. The perpetrator was in a position of authority in the private development, and was in possession of keys to all units within the building. For obvious reasons, members of the public and renters in particular have responded with concern and fear over the breach of trust exude by the perpetrator, and Hope Street echos this sentiment. While the matter did not involve a Hope Street property or any Hope Street personnel, we take this opportunity to advise renters on some of Hope Street's security policies, and by extension, some useful tips to avoid such unfortunate situations as the matter in question.

Renters are urged to only rent from Licensed Landlords. Hope Street is a fully licensed property management company, operating under provincial jurisdiction and accountable under the Residential Tenancies Act and the Real Estate Act of Alberta. While not all landlords are required to hold a licence to rent out property, voluntary compliance is always an option, and in becoming licensed a landlord is forced to submit to thorough screening by the RCMP wherein fingerprints are cross referenced with national databases, police and criminal checks are conducted, and suitability screening is completed. The result is that absolutely 100% of Hope Street's associates are bondable, have no hidden criminal history, and operate in strict compliance and accountability to the Real Estate Act. For a real time listing of Hope Street's licensed agents visit http://bit.ly/2liFbmQ

Renters should inquire whether security checks are performed by landlords on all staff. Hope Street conducts thorough screening on all partners, including our renters, our staff, and our service providers. While certain checks are not available in the public domain, renters are encouraged to ask for certification or disclosure regarding their security as it relates to persons who may have access to their homes. At Hope Street, we do not enter homes without full prior notice issued to the residents (except in case of an emergency i.e. building fire). The tenancy legislation clearly sets out rules for when a Landlord may or may not enter a rented premises and renters are encouraged to check with Service Alberta for full details and one on one consultation if necessary.