“Sex for Rent” in Canada: Legal Landscape & Context

By Mutunga Tobbias

The Common Pulse | September 2025

In recent years, “sex-for-rent” schemes, where sexual favors replace rental payment, have emerged in media and online ads. Though no new law specifically bans this practice, Canada’s existing legal framework already frames it as illegal and exploitative.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Bill C-36 (PCEPA)

Bill C-36 criminalizes the purchase of sexual services while providing immunity for sex workers selling their services. Crucially, receiving material benefits from sex work, unless under narrowly defined lawful exceptions, is a criminal offense.

How “Sex for Rent” Violates the Law

Landlords accepting sex instead of money fall under the offence of receiving a material benefit from sex work, lacking any exemptions. If coercion or economic pressure is involved, that further amplifies legal liability under PCEPA’s exploitation provisions.

Real-World Fuel: Investigations & Advocacy

CBC Marketplace investigations revealed numerous exploitative rental ads, prompting calls for stricter tenant protection and oversight of platforms listing rental properties.

Enforcement & Debate

Although legal mechanisms exist, enforcement is inconsistent, and prosecutions under PCEPA remain infrequent. Courts continue to uphold the core provisions of PCEPA, sparking debate over decriminalization and sex workers’ rights.

While Canada lacks a specific law targeting “sex-for-rent” schemes enacted in August 2025, existing legislation under PCEPA clearly prohibits such transactions. The ongoing challenge lies in effective enforcement and ensuring vulnerable tenants are protected in the rental market.

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