Who handles housing?
Housing
Housing policy involves all three levels of government. The federal government provides national strategy and mortgage insurance, provinces regulate tenancy and building codes, and municipalities handle zoning and local development.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● National Housing Strategy
- ● Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
- ● Indigenous housing on-reserve
- ● First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
- ● Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
- ● National Housing Strategy funding
💡 Example: Contact CMHC about mortgage insurance, or your MP about federal affordable housing investments.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Rent control and tenant protections (varies by province)
- ● Building codes and standards
- ● Social housing funding
- ● Landlord-tenant dispute resolution boards
- ● Provincial housing affordability programs
- ● Building codes and construction standards
💡 Example: File a complaint with your provincial landlord-tenant board, or contact your MPP/MLA about rent control policies.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Building permits and inspections
- ● Zoning and land use
- ● Property standards and by-laws
- ● Local affordable housing programs
💡 Example: Apply for a building permit through your city's planning department, or contact your councillor about zoning changes.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
How to Get Involved in Housing Issues
Housing affects every Canadian's quality of life. You can advocate for affordable housing, tenant rights, and responsible development by taking these steps:
- ● Contact your MP about federal housing funding, homelessness strategies, or mortgage policies
- ● Reach out to your provincial MLA/MPP about housing affordability programs, building codes, or rental regulations
- ● Attend municipal council meetings to discuss local housing policies, zoning changes, or development approvals
- ● Join housing advocacy organizations like the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association or local tenant unions
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Take Action →Frequently Asked Questions
Federal programs include the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) first-time home buyer programs, rental assistance, and the National Housing Strategy. Provincial and municipal programs vary widely.
Rent control varies by province. Ontario limits annual rent increases to a percentage set by the government. British Columbia has similar rules. Some provinces have no rent control for newer units.
CMHC's shared equity program allows the government to invest up to 10% (15% in designated areas) of the purchase price of a home, reducing your mortgage payment. You must repay the government's share when you sell.
Apply through your provincial or municipal housing authority. Waitlists can be long, so apply as early as possible. Priority may be given to seniors, people with disabilities, and those in urgent need.
Tenant rights vary by province but generally include the right to habitable housing, protection from unfair eviction, and the right to privacy. Contact your provincial tenant board for specific guidance.