Getting started
Why are we conducting this survey?
This survey collects information about housing needs and experiences, from a random sample of Canadian households. Data from the Canadian Housing Survey will be used to help understand and address issues such as access to affordable housing, and to improve housing conditions.
Your information may also be used by Statistics Canada for other statistical and research purposes.
Although voluntary, your participation is important so that the information collected is as accurate and complete as possible.
Other important information
Authorization and confidentiality
Data are collected under the authority of the Statistics Act, Revised Statutes of Canada, 1985, Chapter S-19. Your information will be kept strictly confidential.
Record linkages
To enhance the data from this survey and to reduce the response burden, Statistics Canada may combine the information you provide with other survey or administrative data sources.
Contact us if you have any questions or concerns about record linkage:
Email: infostats@statcan.gc.ca
Telephone: 1-877-949-9492
Mail:
Chief Statistician of Canada
Statistics Canada
Attention of Director, Centre for Housing and Income Statistics
150 Tunney's Pasture Driveway
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0T6
Household composition
The next few questions ask for important information about the people in your household.
3. Including yourself, how many people are staying at this address?
Include all people who have their main residence at this address, even if they are temporarily away, and people temporarily living here because they had nowhere else to live.
Note: Press the help button (?) for additional information, including whom to include and whom not to include.
4. [Please provide your first name, last name, and age. / Beginning with yourself, please provide the first name, last name, and age of all the people usually living at this address.]
Person:
5. Please verify that you are listed first and all of the information is correct.
If all the information is correct, then press the Next button.
To make changes, please press the Previous button.
Person:
6. What is this person's date of birth?
If exact date is not known, give your best estimate.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
7. What is the relationship of the following [person / people] to you?
[First name] [Last name] [Age] is:
- Your married spouse
- Your common-law partner
- Your parent
- Your child (birth, adopted or step)
- Your sibling
- Your foster parent
- Your foster child
- Your grandparent
- Your grandchild
- Your in-law
- Other related
- Your roommate or friend
- Other unrelated
- Specify the relationship to this person
Demographic information
The following questions are about sex at birth and gender.
8. What is this person's gender?
Gender refers to an individual's personal and social identity as a man (or a boy); a woman (or a girl); or a person who is not exclusively a man (or a boy) or a woman (or a girl), for example, non-binary, a gender, gender fluid, queer or Two-Spirit.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- [Man/Boy]
- [Woman/Girl]
- Or please specify
- Specify this person's gender
9. What was this person's sex at birth?
Sex at birth refers to the sex recorded on a person's first birth certificate. It is typically observed based on a person's reproductive system and other physical characteristics.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
10. Please verify that all of the information is correct.
If all the information is correct, then press the Next button.
To make changes, please press the Previous button.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Gender: [Male / Female / Specify / Information not provided]
Sex at birth: [Man / Boy / Woman / Girl / Specify / Information not provided]
11. What is this person's marital status?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Married
For Quebec residents only, select the "Married" category if your marital status is "civil union". - Living common law
Two people who live together as a couple but who are not legally married to each other. - Never married (not living common law)
- Separated (not living common law)
- Divorced (not living common law)
- Widowed (not living common law)
Dwelling characteristics and tenure
The following questions are about the characteristics of your dwelling.
12. Is this dwelling owned by a member of this household?
A dwelling is considered owned whether or not it is fully paid for (in other words, there may be a mortgage on the dwelling).
13. Is this dwelling part of a condominium development?
14. Is this dwelling part of a not-for-profit housing co-operative?
In a co-operative, all members occupy their dwelling units under a lease agreement and jointly own the co-operative. A co-operative typically decides on building matters democratically.
Exclude for-equity co-operatives and condominiums.
- Yes
- Who is named as a co-op member?
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]
- No
15. How many bedrooms are in this dwelling?
Count all rooms designed as bedrooms, even if they are now used for something else. Also count basement bedrooms and rooms that are used as bedrooms now, even if they were not originally built as bedrooms.
Do not count rooms used solely for business purposes.
16. What type of dwelling is this?
Is it:
- A single detached
- A semi-detached or double
- i.e., side by side
- A garden home, town house or row house
- A duplex
- i.e., one above the other
- A low-rise apartment of fewer than 5 stories or a flat
- A high-rise apartment of 5 stories or more
- A mobile home
- Other
- Specify the other type of dwelling
17. Is this dwelling in need of any repairs?
Exclude desirable remodelling or additions.
Would you say:
- No, only regular maintenance is needed
For example, painting, furnace cleaning - Yes, minor repairs are needed
For example, missing or loose floor tiles, bricks or shingles; defective steps, railing or siding - Yes, major repairs are needed
For example, defective plumbing or electrical wiring; structural repairs to walls, floors or ceilings
18. Is this dwelling located on an agricultural operation that is operated by a member of this household?
Shelter costs and subsidy for renters
The next questions are about the rent your household pays for this dwelling and any financial assistance you receive to help pay for the rent. Financial assistance includes rent assistance, rent supplements, rent allowances or situations where the rent is geared to income.
[You indicated that your dwelling is part of a housing co-operative. For the purposes of this survey, in a co-operative, all members occupy their dwelling units under a lease agreement and jointly own the co-operative. A co-operative typically decides on building matters democratically. Consider payments made to the co-operative as 'rent.']
19. Do you or any member of your household have to report income to determine the amount of rent to pay?
Include rent geared to income.
Exclude situations when reporting income does not affect the amount of rent to pay, for example, when income is reported as proof of employment.
20. Is the rent for your dwelling subsidized?
Rent is considered subsidized when the tenant pays less than the amount normally charged for the dwelling.
Include:
* Social housing, public housing, government-assisted housing, non-profit housing and housing subsidized by religious organizations
* Rent geared to income, rent supplements, housing allowances and other rent subsidies.
21. How is the rent subsidy applied?
- I receive the subsidy directly
- Is any part of the subsidy from the Canada Housing Benefit?
- The subsidy is paid directly to the landlord
- I pay a lower rent
22. What is the value of the rent subsidy?
If exact amount is not known, enter best estimate.
- Monthly value of the rent subsidy
23. Who subsidizes the rent?
Select all that apply.
Is it:
- A housing co-operative
- A not-for-profit organization other than a housing co-operative
- A government
For example, municipal, provincial, territorial or federal government, or Indigenous entity - Specify the level of government or entity
- Municipal government
- Provincial or territorial government
- Federal government
- Indigenous entity
- A relative
- An employer
- Other
- Specify the subsidy provider
24. Who is your landlord?
Is it:
- A housing co-operative
- A not-for-profit organization other than a housing co-operative
- A government
For example, municipal, provincial, territorial or federal government, or Indigenous entity - Specify the level of government or entity
- Municipal government
- Provincial or territorial government
- Federal government
- Indigenous entity
- A relative
- An employer
- A private company
- An individual
Exclude a relative or an employer - Other
25. Did your household get this dwelling from being on a waiting list for subsidized housing?
26. How long was your household on the waiting list before getting this dwelling?
For example, one and a half years could be entered as 18 months or 1.5 years
27. What is the monthly rent paid for this dwelling?
* If the rent is reduced because of a subsidy or another reason, enter the reduced rent paid by the household.
* If there is no dollar amount paid for the monthly rent, enter "0".
* Round to the nearest dollar. If the exact amount is not known, give a best estimate.
[Include the rent supplement amount you receive directly.]
Exclude any expenses paid separately, for example, electricity, cable, telephone.
28. Which of the following are included as part of the monthly rent?
Select all that apply.
Does it include:
- Electricity
- Heating fuel
- Water
- Internet
- Cable
- Parking space
- Appliances
For example, refrigerator, stove - Furniture
- Air conditioning
Other
- Specify the utilities or services provided
OR
- None of the above
29. In the past 12 months, has the monthly rent for this dwelling increased?
- Yes
- By what amount did the monthly rent for this dwelling increase?
Round to the nearest dollar. If the exact amount is not known, give a best estimate.
- Dollars
OR - Percent
- No
30. Do you have rental insurance?
31. Are you required to have tenant insurance as part of your rental agreement or lease?
32. How much do you pay monthly for your tenant insurance?
Round to the nearest dollar.
Shelter costs and mortgages for owners
The next questions are about the costs associated with owning this dwelling.
33. If you were to sell this property now, for how much would you expect to sell it?
34. Is there a mortgage on this property?
35. Are property taxes included in your mortgage payments?
Include school taxes, special service charges and local improvements.
36. Do you have more than one mortgage on your property?
37. How often do you make regular mortgage payments?
Is it:
- Weekly
- Every two weeks
- Twice a month
- Monthly
- Quarterly
- Twice a year
- Annually
- Other
- Specify the frequency of mortgage payments
38. How much do you pay [for your mortgage weekly / every two weeks / twice a month / monthly / quarterly / twice a year / annually / over one year], including your property taxes?
Exclude irregular and lump sum payments.
Round to the nearest dollar.
39. How much do you pay [for your mortgage weekly / every two weeks / twice a month / monthly / quarterly / twice a year / annually / over one year]?
Exclude irregular and lump sum payments.
Round to the nearest dollar.
40. How much do you pay monthly for all these mortgages, including your property taxes?
Exclude irregular and lump sum payments.
Round to the nearest dollar.
41. How much do you pay monthly for all these mortgages?
Exclude irregular and lump sum payments.
Round to the nearest dollar.
42. What is the total annual property tax bill for this property?
Include school taxes, special service charges and local improvements.
Round to the nearest dollar.
43. What is the regular monthly condominium fee for this dwelling?
Round to the nearest dollar.
44. Are any of the following items included in the payments just mentioned?
For example, mortgage payments, property taxes, condo fees
Select all that apply.
- Electricity
- Heating fuel
- Water
OR - None of the above
45. How much is now owed on [your mortgage / your mortgages] on this property?
Please do not include an outstanding balance on a home equity line of credit.
Round to the nearest dollar.
The following questions are only for your first mortgage.
46. Is the interest rate on your mortgage fixed, variable or a combination of both?
- Fixed
- Variable
- Combination (hybrid)
47. Is your mortgage in an open or closed term?
Open mortgages allow the repayment of the full mortgage balance at any time, without penalty.
Closed mortgages have limitations to how quickly the full mortgage balance can be repaid without incurring additional charges.
48. What is the interest rate on your mortgage?
49. What is the current length of your mortgage term?
Mortgage terms are often: 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, etc.
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 years
- 7 years
- 10 years
- Other
- Specify the mortgage term
50. In which year is your mortgage up for renewal?
51. How many years remain until the mortgage is paid in full according to the amortization schedule in your mortgage contract?
52. Do you have home insurance on this dwelling?
53. Are you required to have home insurance?
Home insurance may be a mandatory condition for your mortgage by your bank or lender, or it may be required by a homeowners association.
54. Is your home insurance included in your mortgage payments?
55. How much do you pay monthly for your home insurance?
Round to the nearest dollar.
56. Do you plan to use the equity in your home to support your retirement?
For example, a reverse mortgage, a home equity line of credit, selling and downsizing.
Support payments received
The next questions are about any support payments that you may make or receive.
57. In the last 12 months, did any of the following persons receive support payments from a former spouse or partner?
By support payments, we mean a formal agreement for spousal support, alimony, a separation allowance or child support.
Include only support payments actually received.
Exclude gifts or additional transfers of money.
- Yes
- What is your best estimate of the amount of support payments [First name] [Last name] [Age] received in the last 12 months?
Round to the nearest dollar
- Amount received
- No
Support payments paid
58. In the last 12 months, did any of the following persons make support payments to a former spouse or partner?
By support payments, we mean a formal agreement for spousal support, alimony, a separation allowance or child support.
Include only support payments actually paid.
Exclude gifts or additional transfers of money.
- Yes
- What is your best estimate of the amount [First name] [Last name] [Age] paid in support payments in the last 12 months?
Round to the nearest dollar.
- Amount paid
- No
Child care expenses
59. In the last 12 months, did any of the following persons pay for child care, so that they could work at their paid job?
Include child care paid during school holidays.
- Yes
- What is your best estimate of the amount [First name] [Last name] [Age] paid in child care in the last 12 months?
Round to the nearest dollar.
- Total amount paid
- No
Household situations
In some situations, people live together out of financial necessity, and household members who would otherwise live on their own cannot.
60. Are there any member(s) of this household who would prefer to be living in a separate household right now, but who lives here out of financial necessity?
For example, because they cannot afford to move to separate accommodation.
- Yes
- Who would prefer to live in a separate household?
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]
- No, the current living arrangement suits all household members.
Lodgers and accessory suites
The next questions are about whether your household rents out parts of the dwelling.
61. Are any members of the household paying rent as a lodger?
For example, a roommate, a boarder or a student renting a room
62. Who is paying rent as a lodger?
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]
63. Do any of the following lodgers have a formal lease agreement?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
64. What is the total duration of the lodger's lease?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- One month or less
- More than one month to six months
- More than six months to one year
- More than one year
65. On this property, are there any other dwellings that you own and rent out, such as basement suites, granny suites or accessory suites?
66. Is the title or property deed for these dwellings separate from your principal residence?
Economic hardship
67. In the past 12 months, how difficult or easy was it for your household to meet its financial needs in terms of transportation, housing, food, clothing and other necessary expenses?
Would you say:
- Very difficult
- Difficult
- Neither difficult nor easy
- Easy
- Very easy
68. In the past 12 months, has any member of your household experienced significant financial difficulty because of increases in rent or mortgage payments?
- Yes, often
- Yes, sometimes
- No
69. Is your household currently behind in rent or mortgage payments?
- Yes
- How many months is your household behind in rent or mortgage payments?
- One month
- Two months
- Three months or more
- No
Security of tenure
70. In the next 12 months, how likely or unlikely is it that you could be forced to move?
For renters, include the likelihood of eviction for non-payment of rent, the sale of the property, major renovations to the unit or any other instance where your landlord would require you to move.
For homeowners, include the likelihood of foreclosure, government expropriation or any other instance where you would be forced to move.
Exclude the likelihood of forced moves because of a natural disaster or fire.
- Very likely
- Likely
- Neither likely nor unlikely
- Unlikely
- Very unlikely
Dwelling satisfaction
The next questions are about your satisfaction with your dwelling. Consider only aspects that are part of your dwelling or your building. Exclude your neighbourhood.
71. Using a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 means "Very dissatisfied" and 10 means "Very satisfied", how satisfied are you with your dwelling?
- 0—Very dissatisfied
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10—Very satisfied
72. How satisfied are you with the following aspects of your dwelling?
- Being affordable
For example, rent, cost of living, property taxes- Very satisfied
- Satisfied
- Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
- Dissatisfied
- Very dissatisfied
- Being accessible to someone with a physical limitation
- Very satisfied
- Satisfied
- Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
- Dissatisfied
- Very dissatisfied
Neighbourhood satisfaction
73. Using a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 means "Very dissatisfied" and 10 means "Very satisfied", how satisfied are you with your neighbourhood?
Neighbourhood refers to the area surrounding your home.
- 0—Very dissatisfied
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10—Very satisfied
74. Thinking about your neighbourhood, how much do you agree with the following statements?
- I support the creation of more housing units in my neighbourhood
- Strongly agree
- Agree
- Neither agree nor disagree
- Disagree
- Strongly disagree
- I support the creation of higher-density housing, such as condominium towers and apartment buildings, in my neighbourhood
- Strongly agree
- Agree
- Neither agree nor disagree
- Disagree
- Strongly disagree
- I support the creation of subsidized housing units in my neighbourhood
- Strongly agree
- Agree
- Neither agree nor disagree
- Disagree
- Strongly disagree
Neighbourhood safety and crime
75. How safe do you feel from crime walking alone in your area after dark?
If you cannot walk, consider how safe you would feel if you went out in a wheelchair.
Do you feel:
- Very safe
- Reasonably safe
- Somewhat unsafe
- Very unsafe
- You do not walk alone
Community satisfaction
76. Using a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 means "Very dissatisfied" and 10 means "Very satisfied", how satisfied are you with feeling as part of your community?
- 0—Very dissatisfied
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10—Very satisfied
Life satisfaction
77. Using a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 means "Very dissatisfied" and 10 means "Very satisfied", how do you feel about your life as a whole right now?
- 0—Very dissatisfied
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10—Very satisfied
General health
The following questions are about health. By health, we mean not only the absence of disease or injury but also physical, mental and social well-being. Information on health will help understand the housing needs of different populations in Canada.
78. In general, how is your health?
Would you say:
- Excellent
- Very good
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
79. In general, how is your mental health?
Would you say:
- Excellent
- Very good
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
Housing aspirations
The next questions are about your housing aspirations for the next five years. When we use the term housing aspirations, we mean desired housing outcomes (location, characteristics, etc.) that would meet the needs of your household, regardless of your current circumstances.
80. Thinking about the future, where would you most like to live in five years' time in Canada?
- Where I currently live
- The urban centre of a metropolitan area
- The suburbs of a metropolitan area
- A regional town or semi-dense area
- A rural or remote community
- No preference
- Not applicable
- Other
81. What would be your ideal type of dwelling?
- Detached dwelling
- Attached dwelling
- Apartment in a building that has fewer than five storeys
- Apartment in a building that has five or more storeys
- Secondary dwelling
- Movable dwelling
- No preference
- Other
- Please specify your ideal type of dwelling
82. How many bedrooms would you like, ideally?
83. What would be your ideal living arrangement?
- Own on your own or with a spouse
- Is your ideal dwelling part of a condominium development?
- Rent in the private market
- Rent from a social, government or community housing provider
- Rent in a shared accommodation with friends or family
- Rent from a family member or friend
- Live with a family member or friend rent-free
- Own or rent within a lifestyle or retirement village
- Live in a nursing home or assisted living
- Jointly own with a joint mortgage shared with friends or family
- No preference
- Other
- Please specify your ideal living arrangement
Intentions to move
The following questions are about your future intentions to move, which could differ from your housing aspirations.
84. Do you plan to move in the next five years?
85. In relation to your current dwelling, where do you plan to move?
Is it:
- In the same city, town, village, township, municipality or Indian reserve
- In a different city, town, village, township, municipality or Indian reserve in Canada
- Select the province or territory
- Outside Canada
86. Will anyone in your current household move with you?
- Yes
- Who in your current household will move with you?
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- No
- Don't know
87. How do you plan to occupy the new dwelling?
Will you:
- Own on your own or with a spouse
- Rent in the private market
For example, from a private owner or company - Rent from a social, government or community housing provider
- Rent in a shared accommodation with friends or family
- Rent from a family member or friend
- Live with a family member or friend rent-free
- Own or rent within a lifestyle or retirement village
- Jointly own with a joint mortgage shared with friends and family
Do not include a spouse - No preference
- Other
- Please specify your plan to occupy the new dwelling
88. People move for a variety of reasons, either voluntary or non-voluntary. Why do you plan to move from your dwelling?
Select all that apply.
Is it:
- To upgrade to a larger dwelling or better quality dwelling
- To be in a more desirable neighbourhood
Include for improved safety - To become a homeowner
For example, to build wealth, own an asset or have greater control over your home - To reduce housing costs
- To downsize
- Because of a change in household or family size
Include marriage, divorce, separation or child birth or adoption - Will it be mainly:
- Because of the end of a relationship
For example, divorce or separation
- Because of some other change in household or family size
For example, marriage, child birth, adoption - To form your own household
- For a new job or job transfer
- For a new school
- To reduce commuting time
- To be closer to family
Include family related health reasons, economic reasons or any other family related reasons - For personal health reasons
Include need for an accessible home, access to support services or any other reasons - Because you think you will be forced to move by a landlord, a bank or other financial institution, or the government
- Do you think you will be forced to move by:
- A landlord
- A bank or financial institution
- The government
- Because of issues with a landlord or other tenants
- Because your current dwelling is at risk of natural disaster or fire
- Other reason
Intentions to buy
The following questions are about your lifetime housing aspirations for homeownership in Canada.
89. Do you think you will ever buy a home in Canada?
90. What are your reasons for thinking you will not buy a home in Canada?
Select all that apply.
Would you say:
- It is unlikely I will ever be able to afford the downpayment
- I do not want to take on a mortgage
- I do not want the responsibility of homeownership
- I prefer the flexibility of renting
- I like it where I am
- Other reason
91. What are your reasons for thinking you will buy a home?
Select all that apply.
Would you say:
- To build wealth
- Property for use as a business
- Greater control over my home
- More stability
- To start or grow a family
- To be a homeowner
- Other reason
Previous accommodations
The next questions are about your moving history.
92. When did you move to your current dwelling?
Would you say:
- Less than 1 year ago
- 1 year to less than 2 years ago
- 2 years to less than 3 years ago
- 3 years to less than 4 years ago
- 4 years to less than 5 years ago
- 5 years to less than 10 years ago
- 10 years ago or more
- Always lived here
93. In relation to your current dwelling, where was your previous dwelling located?
Was it:
- In the same city, town, village, township, municipality or Indian reserve
- In a different city, town, village, township, municipality or Indian reserve in Canada
- Select the province or territory
- Outside Canada
- Select the country of previous residence
To search for a country, type the first few letters to narrow down the choices.
Note: If the country is not listed, select "Other".
- Specify the other county
94. Who in your current household moved with you from your previous dwelling?
Include: roommates, family members, lodgers who moved with you.
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]
OR - No one in the current household moved with me.
95. How did you occupy your previous dwelling?
- Owned it or partially owned it
- Rented it
- Lived there rent-free
96. How many bedrooms did this previous dwelling have?
Count all rooms designed as bedrooms, even if they were used for something else. Also count basement bedrooms and rooms that were used as bedrooms, even if they were not originally built as bedrooms.
Do not count rooms used solely for business purposes.
97. Did your previous unit have limits to yearly increases on rent?
Many provinces have regulated limits to rent increases.
98. Was your previous dwelling's rent subsidized?
Rent is considered subsidized when the tenant pays less than the amount normally charged for the dwelling.
Include:
* social housing, public housing, government-assisted housing, non-profit housing and housing subsidized by religious organizations
* rent geared to income, rent supplements, housing allowances and other rent subsidies.
99. What kind of dwelling was your previous dwelling?
Was it:
- A private dwelling
For example, home, apartment, condo, etc. - A co-operative, co-housing or an ecovillage
- A criminal justice institution
- A children's services home, group home or foster home
- A military base
- A school residence
- A seniors' residence or nursing home
- A short- or long-term hospital
- Transitional housing
For example, hotel, short-stay rental - A homeless shelter or emergency relief shelter
- Other
- Specify the type of previous dwelling
100. What type of structure was your previous dwelling?
- Detached dwelling
For example, single unit, disconnected from other units - Attached dwelling
For example, semi-detached, rowhouse, townhouse - Apartment in a building that has fewer than five storeys
- Apartment in a building that has five or more storeys
- Secondary dwelling
For example, laneway house or in-law suite - Movable dwelling
For example, caravan - Other
- Specify the type of structure
101. Was your previous dwelling a part of a condominium development?
102. Did your household get this previous dwelling from being on a waiting list for subsidized housing?
103. How long did you live in your previous dwelling?
104. Compared to your previous dwelling, are you more or less satisfied with your current dwelling?
- More satisfied
- Less satisfied
- About the same
105. Compared to your previous neighbourhood, are you more or less satisfied with your current neighbourhood?
- More satisfied
- Less satisfied
- About the same
- I live in the same neighbourhood
106. People move for a variety of reasons, either voluntary or non-voluntary. Why did you move from your previous dwelling?
Select all that apply.
Was it:
- To upgrade to a larger dwelling or better quality dwelling
- To be in a more desirable neighbourhood
- To become a homeowner
- To reduce housing costs
- To downsize
For example, to reduce housing costs - Because of a change in household or family size
Include marriage, divorce, separation, or child birth or adoption. - Was it mainly:
- Because of the end of a relationship
- Because of some other change in household or family size
- To form your own household
- For a new job or job transfer
- For a new school
- To reduce commuting time
- To be closer to family
Include family-related health reasons, economic reasons or any other family-related reasons. - For personal health reasons
Include need for an accessible home, access to support services or any other reasons. - Because you were forced to move by a landlord, a bank or other financial institution, or the government
- Were you forced to move by:
- A landlord
- A bank or financial institution
- The government
- Because of issues with the landlord or other tenants
- Because of a natural disaster or fire
- Other reason
107. What supports (if any) allowed you to secure and maintain housing after your move from your previous dwelling?
Select all that apply.
- Getting an additional job
- Getting a higher paying job, a promotion or a raise
- Employment or life-skill training
- Financial support from family or friends
- Securing or increasing social assistance income
- Other sources of financial support
For example, line of credit - Access to subsidized housing
- Finding more affordable housing
For example, sharing housing expenses with roommates or partner
Exclude subsidized housing - Assistance from a housing agency
For example, pre-placement help in searching housing information, housing application or supportive services - Social services
For example, counselling on mental health, addiction or substance use - Government or not-for-profit provided services for recent immigrants and refugees
- Other services
For example, health care services, services for people who have been incarcerated, services to support 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex people and those who use other terms related to gender or sexual diversity) or racialized populations - Non-financial support from family or friends
Other
OR
- No supports needed
Forced moves
This section asks about your experience with any factors requiring you to move when you did not want to. There might have been a formal notice of eviction or a verbal direction, or you might have been made to feel there was no other option but to move. This section is asking about forced moves of all types.
108. Why were you last forced to move?
Select all that apply.
Was it due to:
- Difficulties paying rent
For example, rent not paid or often paid late - Rent increases
- Conflict with landlord
- Conflict with neighbour
- Having a pet
Exclude situations where the pet is causing issues, for example, severe allergic reactions, damage to the unit, unreasonable amount of noise - Harassment or discrimination
- Domestic violence or abuse
- Overcrowding
For example, too many people were living in the unit - Poor housing conditions
For example, necessary repairs had not been done - Landlord wanting unit for own use
- Sale of property by landlord
- Demolition
For example, planned to tear down the building - Conversion
For example, unit is no longer being used for rental purposes - Major repairs or renovation
For example, the unit had to be vacated so that repairs or renovations could be undertaken - Damage to rental unit, building or another part of the property
- Illegal activity in rental unit, building or property
- Actions that affected the safety of self or others
- Actions that interfered with the enjoyment or rights of others
- Other reason
109. How much was your monthly rent at the time you were forced to move?
Round to the nearest dollar. If the exact amount is not known, give a best estimate.
Homelessness
The following questions ask about any experiences of being homeless.
110. Have you ever been homeless, that is, having to live in a shelter, on the street or in parks, in a homeless encampment, in a makeshift shelter, or in a vehicle or an abandoned building?
For example, living in locations not intended for human habitation, such as cars, laneways and sidewalks, as well as temporary accommodations for people without housing, such as homeless shelters, extreme weather shelters and domestic violence shelters.
Exclude:
staying with family, friends or strangers or living in accommodations where you pay rent, including hotels and hostels
homelessness experienced outside of Canada.
- Yes
- How old were you when you first experienced being homeless?
- No
111. What is the longest period of time you were homeless?
Would you say:
- Less than one month
- One month to less than six months
- Six months to less than one year
- One year or more
112. In what year and month did you last experience homelessness?
113. How long were you homeless during this period?
Would you say:
- Less than one month
- One month to less than six months
- Six months to less than one year
- One year or more
114. Did any of the following situations contribute to your loss of housing when you last experienced homelessness?
Select all that apply.
Was it due to:
- Financial issues
For example, lost employment, lost access to a benefit - Could no longer afford dwelling
For example, rent increased - Landlord-tenant issues
- Forced to move
For example, eviction breaching rental agreement, building was sold or renovated - Relationship or interpersonal issues
For example, conflict with roommate, spouse, parent or others; relationship breakdown - Harassment or discrimination
- Violence or abuse
- Relocation
For example, move to a new city or community - Housing quality issues
For example, damage or destruction, mould, pests - Being institutionalized
For example, incarcerated, hospitalized - Health issues
For example, physical health, mental health, addiction or substance use - Select all that apply
- Physical health
- Mental health
- Addiction or substance use
- Waiting to move into a new home
For example, new rental home not ready, closing date later than anticipated - Other situation
- Specify what contributed to your loss of housing
115. Have you ever experienced a forced move that resulted in homelessness, that is, having to live in a shelter, on the street or in parks, in a homeless encampment, in a makeshift shelter, or in a vehicle or an abandoned building?
116. Which of the following factors helped you to regain and maintain housing when you last experienced homelessness?
Select all that apply.
Would you say:
- Finding new employment or increasing employment income
- Financial support from family or friends
- Securing or increasing social assistance or social welfare income
- Other sources of financial support
- Access to subsidized housing
- Locating more affordable housing
For example, sharing housing expenses with roommates or partner
Exclude subsidized housing - Assistance from a housing agency
For example, pre-placement help in searching housing information, housing application or supportive services - Social services
For example, counselling on mental health, addiction or substance use - Receiving employment or life-skill training
- Receiving non-financial support from family or friends
Other factor
- Specify the factors that helped you to regain and maintain housing
OR
- None of the above
117. Have you ever had to temporarily live with someone else (family, friends or anyone else), without paying rent, because you had nowhere else to live?
For example, "couch surfing", crashing with friends
Exclude:
living in any accommodations where you pay rent including hotels or hostels
living in temporary accommodations for people without housing, such as homeless shelters, extreme weather shelters and domestic violence shelters.
118. What is the longest period of time for which you had to temporarily live with someone else without paying rent because you had nowhere else to live?
Would you say:
- Less than one month
- One month to less than six months
- Six months to less than one year
- One year or more
119. In what year and month did you last have to temporarily live with someone else without paying rent for one month or more, because you had nowhere else to live?
120. Did any of the following situations contribute to your loss of housing when you last stayed temporarily with others?
Select all that apply.
Was it due to:
- Financial issues
For example, lost employment, lost access to a benefit - Could no longer afford dwelling
For example, rent increased - Landlord-tenant issues
For example, conflict with landlord - Forced to move
For example, eviction breaching rental agreement, building was sold or renovated - Relationship or interpersonal issues
For example, conflict with roommate, spouse, parent or others; relationship breakdown - Harassment or discrimination
- Violence or abuse
- Relocation
For example, move to a new city or community - Housing quality issues
For example, damage or destruction, mould, pests - Being institutionalized
For example, incarcerated, hospitalized - Health issues
For example, physical health, mental health, addiction or substance use - Select all that apply:
- Physical health
- Mental health
- Addiction or substance use
- Waiting to move into a new home
For example, new rental home not ready, closing date later than anticipated
- Other situation
- Specify what contributed to your loss of housing
121. Have you ever experienced a forced move that resulted in having to temporarily live with someone else (family, friends or anyone else), without paying rent, because you had nowhere else to live?
122. Which of the following factors helped you to regain and maintain housing when you last stayed temporarily with others?
Select all that apply.
Would you say:
- Finding new employment or increasing employment income
- Receiving financial support from family or friends
- Securing or increasing social assistance or social welfare income
- Receiving other sources of financial support
- Accessing subsidized housing
- Finding more affordable housing
For example, sharing housing expenses with roommates or a partner
Exclude subsidized housing. - Receiving assistance from a housing agency
For example, pre-placement help with search for housing information, housing application or supportive services - Receiving social services
For example, counselling on mental health, addiction or substance use - Receiving employment or life-skill training
- Receiving non-financial support from family or friends
- Other factor
- Specify the factors that helped you to regain and maintain housing
Waiting list for social and affordable housing
123. Is any member of your household currently on a waiting list for subsidized housing?
124. Who is on a waiting list?
Select all that apply.
- [First name] [Last name] [Age]
125. How long has your household been waiting for subsidized housing?
If more than one member is on a waiting list for subsidized housing, enter the longest wait time.
For example, one and a half years could be entered as 18 months or 1.5 years
Household characteristics
The next questions ask for additional information about your household.
Language
126. What language does this person speak most often at home?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
127. What is the language that this person first learned at home in childhood and still understands?
If this person no longer understands the first language learned, indicate the second language learned.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Indigenous identity
128. Is this person First Nations, Métis or Inuk (Inuit)?
First Nations (North American Indian) includes Status and Non-Status Indians.
Select all that apply.
If "Yes," select the responses that best describe this person now.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- No, not First Nations, Métis or Inuk (Inuit)
OR - Yes, First Nations (North American Indian)
- Yes, Métis
- Yes, Inuk (Inuit)
Population groups
129. The following question collects information in accordance with the Employment Equity Act and its regulations and guidelines to support programs that promote equal opportunity for everyone to share in the social, cultural and economic life of Canada.
Select all that apply.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Is this person:
- White
- South Asian
e.g., East Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan - Chinese
- Black
- Filipino
- Arab
- Latin American
- Southeast Asian
e.g., Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian, Thai - West Asian
e.g., Iranian, Afghan - Korean
- Japanese
- Other
Place of birth, immigration and citizenship
130. Where was this person born?
Specify place of birth according to present boundaries.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Born in Canada
- Born outside Canada
- Select the country
- Specify the other country
131. In what year did this person first come to Canada to live?
If exact year is not known, enter best estimate.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
132. Is this person now or has this person ever been a landed immigrant?
A landed immigrant (permanent resident) is a person who has been granted the right to live in Canada permanently by immigration authorities.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
133. In what year did this person first become a landed immigrant?
If exact year is not known, enter best estimate.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
134. Of what country is this person a citizen?
Select all that apply.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Is this person a citizen of:
- Canada
- Is it:
- By birth
- By naturalization
- Another country
- Select the country
- Specify the other country
Ethnocultural and religious diversity
The following questions ask about your ethnocultural and religious diversity. The need to collect data on ethnocultural and religious diversity relates to the human right to an adequate standard of living.
135. What were the ethnic or cultural origins of your ancestors?
Ancestors may have Indigenous origins, origins that refer to different countries or other origins that may not refer to different countries.
For examples, refer to this list of ethnic or cultural origins.
- Specify as many origins as applicable.
136. What is [your] religion?
Specify [your] denomination or religion, even if [you] [are] not currently a practising member of that group.
e.g., Roman Catholic, United Church, Anglican, Baptist, Lutheran, Muslim, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, Greek Orthodox
- Religion
To search for a religion, type the first few letters to narrow down the choices.
Note: If the religion is not listed, select "Other religions and spiritual traditions."
OR - No religion
Long-term conditions
The following questions are about any long-term conditions and disabilities.
137. Does this person have any of the following difficulties?
Select all that apply.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses or contact lenses
- Difficulty hearing even when using a hearing aid or cochlear implant
- Difficulty walking, using stairs, using their hands or fingers, or doing other physical activities
- Difficulty learning, remembering or concentrating
- Emotional, psychological or mental health conditions
For example, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, anorexia - Other health problem or long-term condition that has lasted or is expected to last for six or more months
OR - This person does not have any difficulty or long-term condition that has lasted or is expected to last for six or more months
138. Does this person identify as a person with a disability?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Sexual orientation
This question collects information on sexual orientation to inform programs that promote equal opportunity for everyone living in Canada to share in its social, cultural and economic life.
139. What is this person's sexual orientation?
Sexual orientation refers to how a person describes their sexuality.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Heterosexual (i.e., straight)
- Lesbian or gay
- Bisexual or pansexual
- Or please specify
- Specify this person's sexual orientation
Education
140. What is the highest certificate, diploma or degree that this person has completed?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Less than a high school diploma or its equivalent
- High school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate
- Trades certificate or diploma
- College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma (other than trades certificates or diplomas)
- University certificate or diploma below the bachelor's level
- Bachelor's degree
e.g., B.A., B.A.(Hons), B.Sc., B.Ed., LL.B. - University certificate, diploma or degree above the bachelor's level
141. Did this person attend a school, college, CEGEP or university at any time since September [2026]?
Report only attendance for courses that can be used as credits towards a certificate, diploma or degree. Distance learning for credit is included.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
142. What type of educational institution did this person attend?
Select all that apply.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Elementary, junior high school or high school
- Trade school, college, CEGEP or other non-university institution
- University
Employment
The following questions concern activities of members of your household last week, meaning the week beginning on Sunday and ending on Saturday.
143. Last week, did this person work at a job or business?
Display Condition
Select "Yes" if this person worked at least one hour:
* for pay (wages, salary, etc.)
* in self-employment.
Select "No" if this person:
* was away from work for the entire week for a reason such as vacation, illness, work schedule or layoff
* did not have a job or business.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
144. Last week, did this person have a job or business from which they were absent?
Select "Yes" if this person:
* was away from work for the entire week for a reason such as vacation, illness, parental leave or work schedule
* was self-employed with a business, but no work was available.
Select "No" if this person:
* did not have a job or business
* had a casual job, but no work was available.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
145. What was the main reason this person was absent from work last week?
Display Condition
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
- Vacation
- Own illness or disability
- Caring for own children
- Caring for elder relative
60 years of age or older - Maternity or parental leave
- Other personal or family responsibilities
- Labour dispute (strike or lockout)
Employees only - Temporary layoff due to business conditions
Employees only - Seasonal layoff
Employees only - Casual job, no work available
Employees only - Work schedule
e.g., 10 days on, 10 days off; employees only - Self-employed, no work available
Self-employed only - Seasonal business
Excluding employees - Other
- Specify the main reason this person was absent from work last week
146. When did this person start working at their current job or business?
Display Condition
If exact date is not known, provide best estimate.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
147. In which of the following locations does this person usually work as part of their main job or business?
Display Condition
Select all that apply.
- At a fixed location outside the home
- Outside the home with no fixed location
For example, driving, door-to-door sales - At home
Include all work done at the same address as the home, including farm work
148. Is this person currently looking for a job?
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Main activity
149. In the last 12 months, what was this person's main activity?
Display Condition
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
Was it:
- Working at a job or business or self-employed
- Looking for paid work
- Going to school
- Caring for their children
- Household work
- Retired
- Maternity, paternity or parental leave
- Long-term illness
- Volunteering or caregiving other than for their children
- Other
150. Has this person ever served in the Canadian military?
Canadian military service includes service with the Regular Force or Primary Reserve Force as an Officer or Non-Commissioned Member. It does not include service with the Cadets, COATS (Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service), the Supplementary Reserve or the Canadian Rangers.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
151. Is this person currently a member of the Canadian Armed Forces?
Include the Regular Force and the Reserve Force.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
152. In what year was this person released from the Canadian Armed Forces?
If exact year is not known, provide best estimate.
[First name] [Last name] [Age]:
153. We invite your comments about this questionnaire.
- Enter your comments
200 characters available
