Canadian privacy & access decisions

A tenant complained that the caretaker of his apartment building disclosed to other tenants that his rent cheque had bounced. The building management firm initially did not take the issue seriously, prompting the tenant to complain to the OPC. While the caretaker and his wife denied the disclosure, another tenant confirmed that the caretaker's wife had indeed shared this information, along with other tenants' rent details. The complainant sought a letter of apology from the building management firm. The firm provided the apology and also reminded the caretaker and his wife about their obligation not to discuss tenants' personal information. The OPC further advised the firm to create a privacy policy in compliance with PIPEDA. The matter was ultimately settled to the satisfaction of both the OPC and the complainant.

• Whether a building caretaker disclosed a tenant's personal information without consent
• Whether the building management firm adequately protected personal information
• Whether the building management firm had appropriate privacy policies in place