Occupant Handbook - 2.0 Moving in

2.1 Orientation meeting

Upon arrival for move-in, a Housing Services Centre (HSC) representative will provide an orientation briefing. The HSC representative will provide the Occupant Handbook and the Licence to Occupy for signature as well as the keys to the residential housing unit (RHU) to the new Occupant of Record.

2.2 DND housing checklist for new occupants

It is the Occupant of Record’s responsibility to note in this checklist any damages and/or deficiencies in the allocated RHU which will remain on file with the HSC. This checklist will be reviewed at the end of occupancy and during the preliminary move-out inspection for comparison to ensure that the Occupant of Record is not held liable for any damages and/or deficiencies upon move-out. Repair costs for damages that are not noted in the checklist may be the responsibility of the Occupant of Record. The Occupant of Record is required to complete, sign, and return the DND housing checklist to the HSC within thirty (30) calendar days of the move-in day by email or in person.

2.3 Locks and keys

The Occupant of Record is provided with two (2) sets of keys for each exterior door of the RHU including the garage door, if applicable, and must be returned upon move-out.

It is important to note that the HSC does not keep a spare set of keys to RHUs. The Occupant of Record is responsible for the safe keeping of their keys and is responsible for costs related to the replacement of keys. The Occupant of Record is required to contact the HSC to obtain approval to change locks.

The occupant must contact a locksmith of their choice should they require assistance accessing their RHU.  

2.4 Insurance

The Occupant of Record is fully responsible for damage to, or loss of, personal effects while occupying the premises. As such, the Occupant of Record is responsible for carrying the appropriate insurance including up-to-date personal property and liability insurance covering all damages to the premises as a result of 3rd party vandalism or accidents (fire, flooding, sewer backup, theft, etc.). The Occupant of Record must provide proof of insurance to the HSC prior to taking possession of the premises, on an annual basis and at any time upon request.

2.5 Damage caused by movers

The Occupant of Record must inform the HSC of any damages to the premises caused by the moving company. The Occupant of Record is responsible for covering the repair costs and for submitting a claim for reimbursement directly to the moving company.

2.6 Utilities

When the Crown provides utilities (water, sewage, gas, fuel, and electricity), the Occupant of Record is responsible for the costs and is charged accordingly.

When the Crown does not provide utilities, unless advised otherwise by the HSC, the Occupant of Record must arrange for the service(s) directly with their local provider.

Failure to obtain and maintain utilities, including top-up of the fuel tank, can create health and safety hazards and cause damages to the RHU. This may result in CFHA recovery of utilities and repair charges and could justify eviction.

2.7 Cable/satellite dishes and telephone

CFHA will provide a functioning telephone jack in a common area of the RHU.

The Occupant of Record is responsible for paying for telephone, cable and/or satellite service, including the installation of additional and/or relocation of jacks or cable and satellite installation and upkeep. Please refer to section 3.2 Activities requiring HSC approval of this Handbook for more information.