Understanding price-fixing and why Canopy Mgmt stays out of it
If you’ve been following the headlines lately, you’ll know the Canadian rental market is under a new kind of spotlight. In June 2025, the Competition Bureau issued a clear warning: rental price fixing—whether through social media groups, informal chats, or software—is illegal.
For landlords and property managers, it’s a moment to pause and pay attention.
At Canopy Mgmt, we’ve always believed in doing things the right way. That means no shortcuts, no collusion, and no cutting corners when it comes to setting rental rates. While some companies may be tempted to “align” with competitors to maximise profits, we know that long-term success comes from compliance, transparency, and trust.
In this post, we’ll break down what price fixing actually means, why it’s a legal issue, and how ethical pricing helps protect your investment and your reputation. Because as the market evolves, staying on the right side of the law isn’t optional, it’s the only way.
What is price fixing—and why does it matter?
Price fixing happens when landlords or property managers agree—formally or informally—to set or raise rent prices together. That might mean aligning rates, agreeing on surcharges, or syncing lease terms. Even private conversations or online group discussions can cross into illegal territory.
In Canada, these types of agreements are a criminal offence under the Competition Act. The Competition Bureau has made it clear: collaborating with competitors on pricing, restricting rental supply, or using shared software to influence the market could result in serious penalties, including up to 14 years in prison and unlimited fines.
For landlords, the risks are real. Price fixing doesn’t just hurt tenants—it damages trust, distorts the Canadian rental market, and puts your business under legal scrutiny.
At Canopy Mgmt, we operate independently, setting rates based on market data, property condition, and fair value. We believe in transparency, legal compliance, and doing right by both landlords and tenants.
How price collusion can happen—without you realising it
Price fixing isn’t always as blatant as a written agreement between landlords. In many cases, it happens in grey areas—through casual conversations, shared spreadsheets, or subtle alignments in pricing behaviour.
You might not think twice about:
- Swapping “market rate” insights in a landlord Facebook group
- Delaying your unit listing because another manager suggests it’s “not a good time”
- Following rent increase trends posted by others
- Using pricing software that benchmarks against neighbouring properties
But these actions can quickly move from routine to risky. The Competition Bureau warns that even informal coordination (when it influences pricing or supply) can cross legal boundaries.
Whether intentional or not, these interactions can be interpreted as attempts to limit competition. And for landlords, that can lead to major fines, criminal charges, or reputational damage that’s hard to undo.
How Canopy Mgmt protects your property—and your reputation
At Canopy Mgmt, we don’t just follow the rules, we make it a core part of how we operate. Our approach to real Canadian property management prioritises transparency, compliance, and doing what’s right for both landlords and tenants.
Here’s how we make sure your rental business stays on the right side of the law:
- Independent pricing strategies
We assess every unit individually—based on location, condition, and real market demand. We never rely on competitor coordination or automated tools that could encourage uniform pricing. - Clear, tenant-first communication
We explain lease terms directly to tenants, and we’re fully open about pricing, amenities, and any adjustments. That protects both parties and eliminates confusion or risk. - Ethical operations across the board
No matter if you own a single home or a full portfolio, we keep your business compliant and above board. We stay up to date with changes from the Competition Bureau and adjust practices accordingly. - Zero tolerance for collusion
We do not participate in discussion groups, software platforms, or informal networks that encourage pricing alignment. Your investment deserves smarter, safer management.
Our goal? To help landlords grow their returns, without ever compromising their integrity.
Why fair rental practices matter more than ever
In a housing landscape where affordability is a daily headline, ethical property management is a business advantage.
Tenants are becoming increasingly savvy about their rights. They’re aware of the Competition Bureau’s stance on price fixing, and many are actively reporting suspicious activity. For landlords, that means one misstep (even unintentional) can result in fines or lasting reputational damage.
But here’s the upside: doing things the right way builds trust. And in today’s Canadian rental market, trust drives results. Fair pricing attracts better tenants, reduces turnover, and enhances long-term returns. It also positions you as a landlord that renters want to work with—and stay with.
Leave the legal risks behind with fair property management
Price fixing has no place in a fair and functioning Canadian rental market—and the risks for landlords who engage in it are simply too high. But beyond legal consequences, there’s something even more important at stake: your reputation and the long-term value of your investment.
At Canopy Mgmt, we don’t cut corners. We set our rates based on real-time market data, not backchannel chatter—and we never compromise on ethics. If you own one unit or an entire portfolio, you can count on us to manage your property with transparency, professionalism, and respect for the law.
Looking for real Canadian property management that puts your investment and your integrity first?
Let’s connect and show you what fair, expert management really looks like.
