Privacy Commissioners Investigate British Columbia Company Conducting Background Checks for Landlords

The privacy commissioners of Canada and British Columbia have initiated an investigation into a Victoria-based company specializing in background checks for tenants and others.

They have issued a joint statement stating that Certn is currently under scrutiny to confirm its compliance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act and B.C.’s Personal Information Protection Act.

The commissioners will examine whether the company is adhering to the “consent provisions” outlined in both laws and if the data it gathers is being used appropriately.

According to Certn’s website, the company conducts background checks using modern online automated checks instead of outdated manual screening for clients. It offers services such as criminal record checks, identity verification, and employment verification in over 200 countries.

As of now, the company has not provided a comment on the investigation conducted by the commissioners.

Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne emphasized in a news release the importance of collecting personal information with consent and ensuring its accuracy, as it could impact individuals’ ability to secure housing.

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B.C. Privacy Commissioner Michael Harvey stressed the importance of balancing individuals’ privacy rights with businesses’ need to collect information about them.

He mentioned, “Ensuring people’s privacy rights are respected in the rental space is crucial, especially during a time when many British Columbians are facing affordability and housing challenges.”