ACORN Calls Out Bad Landlords at “Roaches Don’t Pay Rent” Rally in Spryfield

Today, ACORN members gathered outside 550 Herring Cove Rd to sound the alarm on the rampant pest infestations and repair issues tenants are facing in Spryfield and across HRM, issues that continue to be ignored by absentee landlords! SHAME!

Chants echoed through the neighborhood as we spoke out, with honks of support from passing cars showing that our community is behind the fight for healthy homes! We also got awesome media turnout, with coverage from The Canadian Press, Global News, the Halifax Examiner, and CBC.

At the rally, Mainland ACORN leader Heather Dunham shared her struggles getting even minor repairs or pest treatments done in her building, and how she’s been forced to take on repairs herself while her rent keeps going up year after year. ACORN members were loud and clear: tenants should not be paying more to live in worse housing conditions!

Another Mainland leader, Mariah Baker, spoke about the need for real change to keep our homes safe and healthy, and called out the unacceptable conditions too many of us are still dealing with every day.

We also highlighted that while ACORN won the rental registry in 2024 after years of organizing, it’s not yet delivering the changes tenants need. Without strong enforcement, landlords are still getting away with ignoring serious issues.

We’re going to keep organizing, building pressure, and showing up until landlords are held accountable and the city enforces its own property standards bylaws.

Are you dealing with pest or repair issues in your apartment building that are being ignored by your landlord? Send us an email at [email protected] to learn more about your rights and how to fight for healthy homes for ALL tenants!