Hamilton Joins Digital Shift: New System Streamlines Property Tax Certificates

By Matthew Richardson – Innovation & Technology Columnist

November 10, 2025 – The City of Hamilton officially launched a new digital service today aimed at streamlining the process of obtaining property tax certificates, a crucial step in real estate transactions. The service, provided by Dye & Durham Limited, promises faster access to essential financial information for legal professionals, lenders, and homebuyers, while simultaneously reducing administrative burdens for municipal staff.

Dubbed Tax Certificates Online (TCOL), the system replaces a previously manual, paper-based process with a fully digital portal. This move aligns with a growing trend within Canadian municipalities toward modernization and increased efficiency, but also raises questions about the pace of digital transformation and its impact on accessibility.

The Promise of Speed and Efficiency

For years, obtaining property tax certificates – documents verifying a property owner's tax standing – involved submitting requests via mail, fax, or in-person visits to city hall. This could often create bottlenecks, delaying closing dates and increasing costs for all parties involved.

“The old system was… cumbersome, to say the least,” commented a legal professional in Hamilton, speaking anonymously. “Any delay in receiving these certificates could throw off an entire deal. This new system should eliminate a lot of that uncertainty.”

Dye & Durham claims TCOL provides 24/7 access to certificates, significantly reducing turnaround times. The company asserts that the system has already proven successful in other Canadian cities, boasting usage in over 115 municipalities across the country, and a strong presence in British Columbia where it processes over 90% of all tax and utility certificates annually.

“We’ve been working with municipalities across Canada for over 15 years to streamline this process,” explained a Dye & Durham representative. “The benefits are clear: faster transactions, reduced costs, and improved service for everyone involved.”

A Broader Trend in Municipal Digitalization

The launch in Hamilton is part of a wider movement toward digitalization within Canadian municipalities. Cities are increasingly adopting online portals and digital tools to improve service delivery and enhance efficiency. However, the pace of change varies considerably.

“Some municipalities are really embracing digital transformation, while others are lagging behind,” noted an industry consultant specializing in municipal technology. “It’s not just about adopting new technology; it’s about changing processes and building a digital culture.”

CentralSquare Technologies, for example, is a competitor offering similar solutions to municipalities, with a footprint in several Ontario cities. Other companies like Catalis and Tyler Technologies also provide platforms for property tax administration. While competition is fierce, the overarching goal is the same: to modernize municipal services and deliver a better experience for citizens.

Potential Challenges and Accessibility Concerns

Despite the potential benefits, the shift to a fully digital system isn’t without its challenges. Concerns have been raised about accessibility for individuals who may lack access to reliable internet or possess limited digital literacy.

“We need to ensure that everyone can access these services, regardless of their technical skills or access to technology,” stressed a community advocate. “Digital inclusion is critical, and we can’t leave anyone behind.”

The City of Hamilton has indicated that it is committed to providing support and resources to help citizens navigate the new system. However, details about specific initiatives remain limited. The city’s decision to exclusively accept digital requests for tax certificates means those accustomed to traditional methods will need to adapt.

“We’re working to provide training and support to those who need it,” stated a city spokesperson. “Our goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for everyone.”

Impact on Professionals and Future of Municipal Services

The launch of TCOL in Hamilton is expected to have a significant impact on legal professionals, real estate agents, and lenders. The faster turnaround times and increased efficiency could streamline transactions and reduce costs.

“This is a welcome change,” said an anonymous real estate agent. “Any tool that can help us close deals faster and more efficiently is a win.”

Beyond the immediate benefits, the move to a digital system could pave the way for further innovation in municipal services. The data collected through the platform could be used to improve planning, enhance service delivery, and inform policy decisions.

“This is just the beginning,” commented the industry consultant. “The future of municipal services is digital, and we’re going to see a lot more innovation in the years to come.”

The success of TCOL in Hamilton will likely be watched closely by other municipalities across Canada, as they consider their own digital transformation strategies. The move to a more efficient, streamlined system could not only benefit citizens and businesses but also help cities become more sustainable and resilient in the face of evolving challenges.