Managing More Than Just Property: How Landlords Can Fight Human Trafficking

By Oseye Cohen

Fighting Human Trafficking in Ontario

Human trafficking is a disturbing and often invisible crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our society—primarily women and children—through coercion, manipulation, and violence. While many assume trafficking happens in dark alleyways or far-off countries, the reality is much closer to home. Increasingly, rental properties have become a hidden front line in this fight—used by traffickers due to their privacy, flexibility, and lack of regular oversight.

As a property manager, I never expected to encounter this first-hand. But I did.

My Real Experience: When the Signs Hit Close to Home

Several years ago, I managed a student rental property in Scarborough, Ontario. The tenant in the basement unit was quiet, paid rent on time, and never caused any visible problems. But one day, a neighbour left a note for me in the mailbox with a grave concern.

She mentioned seeing many young teenaged girls entering and leaving the basement apartment at all hours of the day and night. She was worried it could be something far more sinister than just students or visitors—perhaps even a prostitution ring.

Although there was no hard evidence, I took the concern very seriously. I began the eviction process immediately, citing nuisance to other tenants as my legal grounds. It wasn’t easy—there was nothing concrete to report to the police or present to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). But I knew the situation required immediate action.

Within weeks, the tenant vacated—in the middle of the night, likely to avoid further scrutiny. That moment became a turning point for me as a property professional. I realized how easily rental properties can be exploited—and how important it is for landlords to be vigilant, responsive, and proactive.

How Rental Properties Are Used in Human Trafficking

• Short-Term Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb provide traffickers with anonymity and less oversight compared to hotels.

• Private Residences: Long-term rentals or basement apartments (like the one I managed) offer cover for trafficking operations.

• Illicit Businesses: Traffickers may also use storefronts—such as massage parlors—and rotate victims between locations to avoid detection.

Signs to Watch For

As landlords, neighbors, and community members, it’s vital to recognize red flags that could indicate trafficking:

• High turnover of visitors at strange hours

• Young individuals who appear fearful, malnourished, or under someone else's control

• Residents who avoid conversation or are not allowed to speak for themselves

• Frequent deliveries of personal hygiene products or condoms

• No visible furniture or signs of residence

• Tenants who insist on paying only in cash

• Properties that always have curtains drawn or windows blocked

Why Housing Matters in the Fight Against Trafficking

Traffickers often prey on people who are homeless, newly arrived to Canada, or facing financial hardship. Housing is used as leverage—offered as a way out, then weaponized to trap and exploit. Sadly, in some rare cases, even landlords have been documented exchanging rent for sexual favors.

This makes ethical property management not only a business responsibility—but a social one.

What Property Owners Can Do

1. Stay Engaged: Don’t “set it and forget it.” Maintain open lines of communication with neighbours and tenants.

2. Document Everything: Site inspections, complaints, and photos may be your only leverage in a difficult situation.

3. Report Concerns: If something feels wrong, report it—either to local police or to the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.

4. Use Your Lease Wisely: Include clauses on visitor restrictions and nuisance behavior that can protect you legally.

5. Partner Locally: Build relationships with social service organizations and municipal authorities. You don’t have to navigate these situations alone.

Protecting People

Human trafficking can happen anywhere—including in your own rental property. Even tenants who pay rent on time may be involved in exploitative practices hidden from view. As landlords and property managers, we are often the first and last line of defense in identifying and shutting down these operations.

My experience in Scarborough reminded me that we must never ignore warning signs—no matter how subtle. Protecting property is important—but protecting people is essential.

Don’t overlook the hidden risks that can jeopardize your property and the safety of others. At 12 Gates Property Services, we take a proactive approach to protecting properties—and the people within them.

For a confidential consultation or to learn how we can help you secure, monitor, and manage your rental properties responsibly,

For personalized consultation and more information, Book a Strategy Call