Having a party?
LEGAL INFORMATION TOPICS
Whether you own your home, or are renting it, if you are hosting a social event be sure you know what your responsibilities are. It is your responsibility as host to ensure that your home is safe, guests remain under control and that you have taken all reasonable steps to ensure guests leave safely. Read this before the fun begins …
Noise – Before you crank-up the music!
Most municipalities have noise by-laws that give law enforcement authority to address noise complaints. For example, it is an offence under the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Noise By-law N-200 to unreasonably disturb the neighbourhood, and the fine for a first offence is $452. The by-law covers activities such as loud parties, yelling, shouting, and playing loud music. Penalties for breaching a noise by-law are usually fines, but there may also be a risk of imprisonment in severe cases. You can find out if such a by-law exists in your area by contacting your local municipal government. If you are renting, you may also face the possibility of eviction if there are repeated noise complaints.
Alcohol – Will your guests be drinking?
The legal drinking age in Nova Scotia is 19. The fine for underage drinking, or possessing liquor underage, is $455.21. Be careful not to let your party get out of hand, such as allowing it to spill out onto the street, as having open liquor or being intoxicated in a public place are both offences under the Liquor Control Act (click here for current fine amounts). It is also an offence for a tenant or owner to allow drunkenness in their home.
If guests are going to be drinking at your party, try to make sure there is a designated driver, arrange for taxis, and consider letting guests stay overnight, so that everyone gets home safely.
Property Damage – Who pays for that broken window?
As host, you may be wholly or partly liable to pay for or repair any property damage caused by your guests. Depending on the nature of the damage, you may be able to sue the guest for the cost of repairs or replacement. You may be able to claim under home or tenant insurance, depending on the deductible in your policy. You may also be liable for damage caused by your guests to the property of others. A person who damages property, such as breaking a window or fence, might also be charged with mischief (property damage) under the Criminal Code of Canada .
Personal Injury – Who pays if a guest is injured?
As host of an event, you are expected to ensure that your home is safe. If someone is injured on your property, you may be found partly or perhaps wholly liable for the injury. Click here to find out more about ‘occupiers’ liability’ issues.
You should check your home or tenant insurance to see what it covers. Further information about home and tenant insurance is available from the Insurance Bureau of Canada.