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DND living accommodations instruction

Table of Contents

  1. Identification
  2. Definitions
  3. Operating Principles
  4. Accommodation Standards
  5. Eligibility and Priority
  6. Application Processing, Allocation, Waitlist Management and Inter-RHU Move Requests – Residential Housing Units
  7. Allocation and Requirement to Occupy – Furnished Quarters
  8. Conditions of Occupancy
  9. Retention of Accommodation
  10. Requirement to Vacate, Evacuate or Relocate
  11. Charges
  12. Liability and Insurance
  13. Occupant Complaint Resolution Process
  14. Designated Residences
  15. References
  16. Annexes

1. Identification

Date of Issue: 2007-03-30

Date of Modification: 2025-12-01

Application: This instruction is an order that amplifies DAOD 5024-0, DND Living Accommodations, and DAOD 5024-1, Residential Housing Units and Furnished Quarters, and applies to all DND living accommodations with the exception of field training and deployed operations accommodations.

Approval Authorities: This instruction is issued under the authority of the

Enquiries:

2. Definitions

Accommodation Standards (normes en matière de logement)
Fundamental characteristics of DND living accommodations that meet the basic societal residential dwelling needs for a prescribed household size and composition or that meets the training goals or transient needs of CAF members at a CAF base/wing.
Assigned Residence (résidence assignée)
A DND residential housing unit that is designated in support of a CAF function attributable to the exigencies of military service or designated occupant's position or role on the unit establishment.
Base Shelter Value (BSV) (valeur de base du gîte (VBG))
Base shelter value means the monthly market value for occupancy of a residential housing unit, including the monthly market value of covered residential parking allocated to the unit, as determined in accordance with guidance provided by the Treasury Board.
Note - The base shelter value excludes any utilities, furniture, appliances, any shelter charge adjustments and special reductions.
Benchmark Unit (unité de référence)
A selected unit that represents each model type located on a base/wing used to determine the base shelter value. The Canadian Forces Housing Agency selects and reviews benchmark units annually.
Covered Residential Parking (stationnement résidentiel couvert)
Garage or carport.
Designated Residence (résidence désignée)
A DND housing unit that is designated to satisfy specific service requirements of the CAF and/or statutory departmental heritage responsibilities of DND. Designated residences are sub-categorized as “assigned” to meet an identified CAF requirement or as “heritage” where the character of the building must be maintained and protected in accordance with federal and departmental policies and procedures. Some designated residences are both assigned and heritage.
DND Living Accommodations (logements du MDN)
All residential housing units and furnished quarters administered by the Minister except those used for field training or deployed operations.
Furnished Quarters (logements meublés)
Furnished quarters administered by the Minister, allocated for a training, residential, or transient purpose.
Geographic Boundary (limite géographique)
The limits of the area surrounding the base/wing as set by the base/wing commander in which CAF members posted to that location could reside.
Heritage Residence (résidence patrimoniale)
A DND housing unit that has been designated as a recognized or classified Federal Heritage Building by the Federal Heritage Review Office (FHRO) in accordance with Treasury Board policy.
Household (ménage)
Household means the occupant and any person who occupies the residential housing unit with the occupant.
Licence to occupy (Permis d’occupation)
A licence granted by Canadian Forces Housing Agency on behalf of the Minister, permitting an individual to occupy a residential premises in consideration of a monthly fee and other agreed-to conditions of occupancy.
Liveable Floor Area (Surface habitable)
A measure of unit size in square metres, from the exterior surface of the outside walls and including each level of living area above grade. Finished space in the basement is not included in liveable floor area regardless of the quality of finishing.
Managing Authority (Autorité de gestion)
The party or organization that is responsible for the management, operation, maintenance and allocation of DND living accommodations. The Canadian Forces Housing Agency is the managing authority for residential housing units. Managing authorities for furnished quarters will vary by location, but in every case the ADM(IE) remains the authority for the management and maintenance of the asset.
Monthly gross household income (revenu brut mensuel du ménage)
Monthly gross household income means the total gross monthly income of the household, excluding any income:
  1. of a child
    1. who is under the age of 18 years and who is unmarried or who has not been cohabiting with an individual in a conjugal relationship for a period of at least one year;
    2. who is dependent by reason of mental or physical incapacity; or
    3. who is under the age of 24 years and is in full time attendance at a recognized educational institution;
  2. from scholarships; and
  3. from the occupant’s spouse or common-law partner if the income of the spouse or common law partner is less than the amount that can be claimed as the spouse or common-law partner amount in the federal income tax return of the occupant for the current year.
Occupant (occupant)
A CAF member or other approved user who occupies a DND living accommodation according to the agreed upon Licence to Occupy or conditions of occupancy.
Primary Residence (résidence principale)
Accommodation intended to be a CAF member’s place of residence.
Residential housing unit (unité de logement résidentiel)
Unfurnished quarters or a leased housing unit administered by the Minister, including a heritage residence that may contain some furnishings.
Residential quarters (logements résidentiels)
Furnished quarters used for residential accommodation purposes.
Shelter Charge (frais de gîte)
The base shelter value of residential accommodation adjusted by non-appraised factors such as maintenance deficiencies, or as defined in the Isolated Posts and Government Housing Directive.
Training quarters (logements d’instruction)
Furnished quarters used for training accommodation purposes.
Transient quarters (logements provisoires)
Furnished quarters used for temporary accommodation purposes.
Utilities (services publics)
Utilities means, in relation to a residential housing unit, fuel, electricity, water and sewer services.

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3. Operating principles

Context

Note 1 – Any authorized occupant not subject to the DAOD 5024 series is administered through the Canadian Forces Housing Agency (CFHA) Licence to Occupy for residential housing units (RHUs) or through the local base/wing standing orders for furnished quarters.

Note 2 – In the National Capital Region (NCR), a number of housing units are provided by the Personnel Support Programs (PSP) of the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) and managed by the Canadian Forces Support Group (Ottawa-Gatineau) (CFSG(O-G)). These housing units are not governed under the DAOD 5024 series nor the DND Living Accommodations Instruction. Additional information is available from the local PSP staff or the CFSG(O-G) Web site as required.

Note 3 – Living accommodations outside Canada are not discussed in this Instruction.

General principles

Access to DND living accommodations

Supply of DND living accommodations

Functional uses of DND living accommodations

Alternate uses of DND living accommodations

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4. Accommodation standards

General – residential housing units

General – furnished quarters

Training accommodation standards – furnished quarters

Table 1 – Training accommodation standards by category – furnished quarters
Category Training type Objectives Occupants Liveable floor area Features
I Basic
  • General military knowledge
  • Basic military skills
  • Acculturation
  • Acclimatization
 Double or multiple occupants share living space and washrooms 10 square metres or 108 square feet per individual
  • Private, non-enclosed space
  • Personal sitting area/desk included in liveable floor area
  • Personal storage space (e.g., space for wardrobe and bureau/dresser) exclusive of liveable floor area
  • Common ablution facilities with partitioned shower stalls and privacy screens
  • Common laundry rooms
  • Recreational/lounge and bulk storage
  • On-site parking
II Skilled or Advanced Training of six months or less Single or double occupancy (1+1) -minimum 40 square metres required for double occupancy. 20 square metres or 215 square feet per individual
  • Private combined bed/sitting/study room
  • Adjacent units may share a bathroom and a kitchenette (consisting of a mini-fridge, microwave oven, sink, counter and cupboards)
  • Personal storage closets and any bulk storage provided within the living space exclusive of liveable floor area
  • Study space is included in liveable floor area with modular units or installed millwork
  • Telephone, internet and cable connections
III Advanced or Skilled Training of six months or more Single occupancy (1) 35 square metres or 375 square feet per individual
  • One bedroom suite comprised of a bedroom and separate sitting/study room
  • Private kitchenette (consisting of a mini-fridge, microwave oven, two-burner stove, sink, counter and cupboards)
  • Private bathroom
  • Personal storage closets and any bulk storage provided within the living space exclusive of liveable floor area
  • Study space is included in liveable floor area with modular units or installed millwork
  • Separate telephone, internet and cable connections in both the sitting area and the bedroom
  • Common laundry rooms
  • On-site parking

Note – To help prevent the spread of infectious disease, a minimum of 10 square metres (108 square feet) of floor space is necessary for each CAF member in training quarters. Beds in training quarters will be spaced at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) apart, calculated from the edge of adjacent beds. Spacing between rows of beds in training quarters will provide a minimum aisle clearance of 1.1 metres (44 inches). Double-decker bunks are acceptable. Triple-decker bunks will not be used.

Residential accommodation standards – furnished quarters

Transient accommodation standards – furnished quarters

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5. Eligibility and priority

General

Note 1 – The CEO CFHA, as the managing authority for DND residential housing units (RHUs), will be responsive to base/wing commander requests that may not be addressed in Table 2 but align with DND and CAF direction.

Note 2 – There is no hierarchy within each priority.

Table 2 Eligibility and priority – residential housing units
- Priority Eligibility Comments
CAF Member Moving (D)HG&E at Public Expense 1
  • A CAF member authorized to move their dependants, household goods and effects ((D)HG&E) at public expense for the 1st time (Comment 1 )
  • A CAF member approved for a compassionate posting (Comment 2)
  • A CAF member returning from an Outside of Canada (OUTCAN) posting
  • A CAF member posted at public expense for training
  1. For Regular Force service couples moving together, refer to paragraph 6.4
  2. A CAF member approved for a compassionate posting must submit their decision message stating that it is a compassionate posting
2
  • All other CAF members
  • A foreign military member occupying an approved exchange or liaison position
  1. A Reserve Force member moving at public expense will retain this priority 2 status provided they continue to meet the period of employment conditions as defined in section 13.02 of the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD) otherwise, they will transition to priority 4 status
CAF member Moving At Own Expense 3
  • A Regular Force member currently residing on the local economy at the place of duty
  • A Reserve Force member with a minimum three-year period of employment currently residing on the local economy at the place of duty
  1. A priority 3 CAF member who is allocated an RHU will not be required to vacate to accommodate another CAF member unless ordered by an authority (as per DAOD 5024-0, DND Living Accommodations)
  2. A priority 3 Reserve Force member will retain priority 3 status provided they continue to meet the period of employment conditions as defined in section 13.02 of the CAFRD, otherwise they transition to priority 4 status
4
  • Any other Reserve Force member
  • Non-CAF members
  1. A priority 4 occupant may be required to vacate an RHU when presented with a 90-day notice to vacate if the RHU is needed for a higher priority applicant

Note 1 – A Regular Force member or a Reserve Force member on a minimum three-year period of employment, approved by their CO to reside outside of their place of duty, will be considered as priority 3.

Note 2 – A Reserve Force member identified as a priority 3 may be considered for occupancy with less than three years remaining on their period of employment if they meet the period of employment as defined in section 13.02, Meaning of Period of Employment, of the CAFRD. Otherwise, they will be considered as a priority 4.

Note 3 – A CAF member approved for special commuting assistance (as per CBI 209.29, Special Commuting Assistance), is eligible to apply for an RHU as a priority 3.

Table 3 Eligibility and priority – furnished quarters (training)
Priority Eligibility Comments
1
  • A CAF member or incremental staff on or supporting CAF training where occupying furnished quarters is a requirement (as per DAOD 5024-0, DND Living Accommodations)
  • Incremental staff are those individuals who are assigned to support training through the Canadian Forces Taskings, Plans and Operations (CFTPO) process. Incremental staff may include:
    • CAF member
    • DND employee
    • Non-defence team employee
2
  • Other military requirements as determined by the L1 or the base/wing commander
3
  • Other requirements as determined by the base/wing commander
Table 4 Eligibility and priority – furnished quarters (residential)
- Priority Eligibility Comments
CAF Member Moving at Public Expense 1
  • A CAF member approved for Imposed Restriction (IR) status (Comment 1)
  • A CAF member authorized to move their HG&E at public expense for the 1st time 
  • A CAF member approved for a compassionate posting (Comment 2)
  • A CAF member returning from an OUTCAN posting
  • A CAF member posted at public expense for training
  1. For IR status administration refer to section 5.7 below
  2. A CAF member approved for a compassionate posting must submit their decision message stating that it is a compassionate posting
2
  • All other CAF members
  • A foreign military member occupying an approved exchange or liaison position
  1. A Reserve Force member moving at public expense for a period of employment will retain priority 1 or 2 status provided they continue to meet the period of employment conditions as defined in section 13.02 of the CAFRD otherwise, they may be required to vacate
Table 5 Eligibility and priority – furnished quarters (transient)
Priority Eligibility Comments
1
  • A CAF member allocated transient quarters (e.g. temporary duty or attach posting as defined in Chapter 2 - Definitions of the CFTDTI)
2
  • Other military requirements as determined by L1s or base/wing commander (e.g. hosting national or international exercises)

Imposed restriction

Note – The CAF member's household is permitted to retain their RHU, while the member is on IR status at a new place of duty.

Reside outside place of duty

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6. Application processing, allocation, waitlist management and inter-RHU move requests – residential housing units

Application

6.1 An eligible applicant (as per Section 5, Table 2) may complete and submit their application directly on the CFHA Web site or by completing a printed copy and submitting it directly to the housing service centre (HSC) where they are applying.

6.2 Any application must include the number of household members who will be residing in the residential Housing unit (RHU). For a CAF member, household members include those individuals who permanently reside with the CAF member. The household is limited to:

  1. the CAF member;
  2. dependants as defined in Compensation and Benefits Instruction (CBI) 208.80(3), Definitions;
  3. individuals residing with the CAF member who are not dependants. These individuals are limited to:
    1. an individual (including their dependants) who is in a relationship and is cohabitating with the CAF member. These individuals have set up their household together in one dwelling;
    2. immediate family member:
      1. father and mother;
      2. father-in-law and mother-in-law;
      3. siblings;
      4. grandchild;
      5. grandparent; and
      6. other immediate relatives;
    3. a healthcare support person or a care giver who resides with the CAF member and provides assistance to someone in the household. This individual does not meet the definition of a housekeeper as per CBI 208.80(3).

6.3 The CFHA will validate the number of household members listed in the application against the information contained in the CAF member's posting message. For individuals who qualify as household members (as per paragraph 6.2) but are not listed in the posting message, the CAF member must complete and submit with their application a statutory declaration (as per DAOD 7000-1, Completion of Affidavits and Statutory Declarations) signed by the CAF member's current commanding officer as approving the addition. For a priority 4 applicant, there is no requirement to submit a statutory declaration validating household members.

6.4 For Regular Force service couples moving together at public expense, only the CAF member authorized to move their dependants, household goods and effects ((D)HG&E), as stated in their posting message, is eligible to apply for an RHU; however, either CAF member can complete the application on behalf of the service couple. Both members of the service couple will sign the Licence to Occupy.

6.5 In accordance with Table 6 an applicant's approved household size is used to determine the range of bedrooms they are eligible for when being considered for an RHU.

Note 1 – The definition of household for the purpose of allocating an RHU does not apply to non-CAF members, as they are only considered when availability of an RHU exists.

Note 2 – To enable an HSC to consider support requests from a CAF member that may affect the allocation of an RHU, the CAF member will be asked to provide appropriate supporting documentation with their application.

Bedroom eligibility range

6.6 The bedroom eligibility range outlines the minimum and the maximum number of bedrooms an applicant is eligible for. The HSC will refer to Table 6 when preparing allocation offers. This range is provided to offer flexibility to both the CFHA and applicants and is not to be considered as an entitlement in the allocation of RHUs.

Table 6 Bedroom eligibility range
Household Size Bedroom Eligibility Range
1 1 - 2
2 1 - 3
3 2 - 3
4 2 - 4
5+ 3 - 5+

Note – At some locations there is no supply of one and two-bedroom residential housing units. As a result, the HSC may provide an allocation offer that is outside the bedroom eligibility range set in Table 6.

Application processing

6.7 When an HSC receives an application, the following steps are taken:

  1. it is reviewed for completeness within three business days;
  2. if additional information is required, the applicant is advised. Once the additional information is provided to the HSC, it is reviewed again within three business days; and
  3. when the application is deemed to be complete, the applicant is advised within three business days that their application has been accepted for processing.

6.8 Once accepted for processing, an application for an RHU is sorted according to the following factors:

  1. applicant priority (Section 5, Table 2);
  2. change of strength (COS) or approved report for duty (RFD) date; and
  3. household size – bedroom eligibility (Table 6 above).

Note – The date and time when the completed application was received by the HSC may be used to prioritize the order of applications when multiple applicants with similar factors apply on the same day.

Allocation offer

6.9 Once an application is sorted in accordance with the factors outlined in paras 6.7 and 6.8, the eligible CAF member may receive an allocation offer. If no offer can be made, they are assigned to the waitlist.

6.10 An allocation offer is the official notification to an applicant that an RHU is available and the applicant's written response is the official acceptance or refusal of that offer. An applicant must reply within three business days after an offer has been made unless they are unable due to confirmed service-related duty. Other reasons for a delayed response will be considered on a case-by-case basis should a situation arise beyond the CAF member’s control.

6.11 For a priority 1 or 2 CAF member, allocation offers are made within 60 calendar days before their COS or approved RFD date. If no RHU is available, and no offer can be made, the applicant will be assigned to the waitlist and they will be provided with a number indicating their assigned position in accordance with their household size.

6.12 For a priority 3 CAF member or a priority 4 applicant, allocation offers can be made when there are no priority 1 or 2 CAF members waiting for an offer or there are no applications pending.

6.13 The HSC may also consider making allocation offers that balance the maximum effectiveness of bedroom space with the needs of a CAF member that will also respect the responsible management of the DND residential housing portfolio at each location. In a case where a CAF member voluntarily accepts an allocation offer outside their bedroom eligibility range, the reduction of the shelter charge to no more than 25% of their gross household income will not apply as outlined in the Charges section at paragraph 11.7.

Example: A four-bedroom RHU is available that would normally be allocated to a household size of four or five+ people. This RHU would be offered in the order of Table 7.

Table 7 Order of allocation offer
Order Allocation Offer Over housed as per Table 6
a. to the first Priority 1 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria; No
b. if there is no Priority 1 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria, go to the first Priority 2 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria; No
c. if there is no Priority 2 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria, go to the first Priority 1 CAF member who would be over-housed by one bedroom; +One
d. if there is no Priority 1 CAF member available who would be over-housed by one bedroom, go to the first Priority 2 CAF member available who would be over-housed by one bedroom; +One
e. if there is no Priority 2 CAF member available who would be over-housed by one bedroom, go to the first Priority 3 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria; No
f. if there is no Priority 3 CAF member who meets the bedroom eligibility range criteria, go to the first Priority 3 CAF member who would be over-housed by one bedroom; or +One
g. if there is no Priority 3 CAF member available who would be over-housed by one bedroom, go to the first Priority 4 applicant. No

Allocation offer refusal

6.14 If a priority 1 or 2 CAF member fails to accept or refuses an allocation offer in writing within three business days, this will be recorded as a refusal and the CAF member will be placed at the bottom of the current priority 1 or 2 CFHA waitlist (as per paragraphs 6.19 to 6.21). If this CAF member is presented with a second allocation offer and they fail to accept or they refuse the allocation offer in writing within three business days, they will be reassigned to the bottom of the priority 3 waitlist.

6.15 A priority 3 CAF member or a priority 4 applicant who fails to accept or who refuses an allocation offer in writing within three business days, will be removed from the waitlist. Any reapplication for an RHU may be considered if the priority 3 CAF member or the priority 4 applicant’s personal situation changes.

Allocation offer refusal – extenuating circumstances

6.16 There may be a situation where a priority 1 or 2 CAF member cannot accept an allocation offer due to extenuating circumstances. If this occurs, the CAF member will be asked to provide appropriate supporting documentation to the HSC in support of their circumstances, such as joining instructions, an attached posting message or a letter from their healthcare provider. Once it has been confirmed that the appropriate documentation has been submitted to the HSC, a refusal of an allocation offer will not be recorded. Extenuating circumstances may include:

  1. an approved duty where the CAF member will be out of the area for an extended period (e.g. six months or more); or
  2. the CAF member or their dependant is receiving treatment or care for which it is not recommended they move.

6.17 Any request for consideration of extenuating circumstances must include an anticipated resolution date whereby the CAF member will be available for an allocation offer.

Note – Any approval of extenuating circumstances will not be used to extend a priority 1 or 2 CAF member's 24-month priority (as per paragraphs 6.19 to 6.21). The CAF member will remain on the waitlist but will not receive an allocation offer until they notify the HSC in writing that their extenuating circumstances no longer apply. At this point, the CAF member’s file will be reactivated and they will be eligible to receive an allocation offer.

Cancellation of an accepted allocation offer

6.18 An applicant may cancel an accepted allocation offer, provided that the HSC receives written notice at least 30 days before occupancy. Otherwise, they will be charged the equivalent of 30 days of shelter charges.

Note – Exceptions will be considered if the CAF member becomes unavailable due to confirmed service-related duty or extenuating circumstances (as per paragraphs 6.16 and 6.17).

Waitlist management

6.19 As per paragraphs 6.7 to 6.8, once an application is processed, the eligible CAF member may receive an allocation offer (as per paragraphs 6.9 to 6.13). If an allocation offer cannot be made, the CAF member is assigned to the waitlist. The waitlist is used by an HSC when the number of applicants is greater than the availability of RHUs at a given location.

6.20 A priority 1 or 2 CAF member on the waitlist will retain this priority status until they either:

  1. accept their HG&E (including long-term storage) within their new place of duty;
  2. accept an allocation offer;
  3. refuse two allocation offers; or
  4. occupy a waitlist for 24 months (Note 2) without an allocation offer (Note 3).

Note 1 – If any of the conditions in bullets a-c are satisfied, the CAF member will lose their current priority 1 or 2 status and they will be removed from the priority 1 or 2 waitlist. However, upon the CAF member's written request, their application may be added to the bottom of the priority 3 waitlist.

Note 2 – The 24-month period aligns with the time limits for payable expenses (as per Compensation and Benefits Instruction 208.96(2), Reimbursement for sale or purchase of residence and as outlined in the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD), section 2.9, Claims Process). Any Director Compensation and Benefits Administration (DCBA) granted extension to the time limit will be taken into account by the HSC when the appropriate documentation is submitted.

Note 3 – If the condition in bullet d is satisfied, the CAF member will lose their current priority 1 or 2 status and they will be removed from the priority 1 or 2 waitlist. However, upon the CAF member's written request, their application may be added to the priority 3 waitlist as of the date they were originally added to the waitlist. For example, a CAF member who is added to the waitlist on 15 July 2025 and does not receive an allocation offer for 24 months, may request to be added to the priority 3 waitlist on 15 July 2027, with an effective date of 15 July 2025.

6.21 To manage the waitlist efficiently, the HSC will contact a priority 1 or 2 CAF member annually over the 24-month period to confirm if the CAF member has accepted their HG&E within their new place of duty. If the CAF member has not accepted their HG&E, they must request a copy of their HG&E report from the local Furniture and Effects (F&E) section and submit this to the HSC as confirmation and they will retain their priority. At this point the CAF member may inquire about their current position on the waitlist. If they have accepted their HG&E according to their HG&E report, their move is considered complete and they will be removed from the priority 1 or 2 waitlist. However, upon the CAF member's written request, their application may be added to the bottom of the priority 3 waitlist and they will be advised of their new position.

Changes to an application

Removal from waitlist

Inter-residential housing unit move request

Note – Due to the high move tempo during the Active Posting Season, an occupant should not expect an inter-RHU move request to be considered during this period.

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7. Allocation and requirement to occupy – furnished quarters

Allocation

7.1 The supply of furnished quarters across the CAF that are available for allocation include a mix of older and more recent construction; designed and built to different sets of approved accommodation standards. Depending on supply, upcoming availability and the intended need for the accommodation, furnished quarters will be allocated in the following order of priority:

  1. furnished quarters for a training purpose will be allocated in accordance with:
    1. the eligibility and priority of the user (as per Section 5, Table 3); and
    2. the category of room needed (as per Section 4, Table 1) as determined by the applicable training authority;
  2. furnished quarters for a residential purpose will be allocated in accordance with:
    1. the eligibility and priority of the user (as per Section 5, Table 4); and
    2. the standard of room (as per paragraph 4.8 (where they are available) or as guided by Annex A, Categories/Types of Furnished Quarters;
  3. furnished quarters for a transient purpose will be allocated in accordance with:
    1. the eligibility and priority of the user (as per Section 5, Table 5); and
    2. the standard of room (as per paragraph 4.9).

Note – Occupants of furnished quarters, who are not subject to the Code of Service Discipline, will be granted occupancy as per Queen’s Regulations & Orders, Volume IV, Appendix 3.2, Defence Controlled Access Area Regulations, or applicable laws whereby they must conform to direction, such as conditions of occupancy of local furnished quarters issued by DND or CAF authorities, for the duration of their stay.

Requirement to occupy

7.2 A new entrant to the CAF will be assigned to the Basic Training List (BTL) while undergoing basic, environmental and occupational training in order to achieve their operational functional point (OFP). During this period, they will occupy furnished quarters as determined by the chain of command or applicable training authority.

7.3 For other CAF requirements, members will occupy furnished quarters when ordered by the following authorities (as per DAOD 5024-0):

  1. a base/wing commander for service requirements, operational readiness activities or in a local emergency; or
  2. a training or other approving authority for training, temporary duty, attached posting or other service requirements.

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8. Conditions of occupancy

General

8.1 Occupancy of DND living accommodations is subject to conditions, detailed in the local base/wing standing orders. Occupancy of a residential housing unit (RHU) is also subject to conditions outlined in the Licence to Occupy which contains the Occupant Handbook.

Note – On occasion, the relevant authority may prescribe additional conditions they deem necessary, provided they do not contradict higher level orders and regulations. An occupant of an RHU will be informed in writing by the CFHA as soon as possible of any amendments to their Licence to Occupy. Any base/wing changes affecting an occupant of DND living accommodations will be promulgated in base/wing orders.

Licence to occupy – residential housing units

8.2 An occupant is granted a Licence to Occupy, which permits the licensee (occupant) to occupy and use an RHU. A Licence to Occupy is a temporary personal entitlement granted to the occupant by the MND and does not create any estate or interest. Therefore, no tenancy is established by this Licence to Occupy, and provincial or territorial legislation and municipal by-laws in the area of tenancy do not apply to RHUs. An RHU cannot be sub-licenced or assigned (allocated) to another individual by the current occupant.

Note – Where multiple CAF members occupy an RHU, only the CAF member who was allocated the RHU and who signed the Licence to Occupy is responsible for the unit.

Licence to occupy – regular force service couple

8.3 A Regular Force service couple moved at public expense to the same new place of duty (as per the Canadian Armed Forces Relocation Directive (CAFRD)), will both sign and be held responsible to the terms contained in the Licence to Occupy. The CAF member authorized to move their household goods and effects (HG&E) as per their posting instruction will be identified as the CAF member for administrative purposes, e.g. for the payment of the monthly charge for occupancy.

Move-in – residential housing units

8.4 An applicant who has accepted an offer for an RHU will meet with a representative from the housing service centre (HSC) to commence the move-in process. As part of this process an applicant will:

  1. sign the Licence to Occupy, taking possession of the RHU;
  2. provide proof of insurance for the allocated RHU;
  3. review applicable conditions of occupancy; and
  4. be given keys for the RHU.

8.5 An occupant must also complete, sign and return an RHU Move-In Deficiency Report to the HSC. The HSC will place this report on the occupant’s housing record to ensure that the occupant is not liable upon move-out for any identified deficiencies.

Move-out – residential housing units

8.6 An occupant who intends to move out of their allocated RHU and has submitted a written Notice of Intent to Vacate to the HSC, will receive instruction from the HSC on vacating activities and responsibilities, including conducting preliminary and final move-out inspections.

Allowing access to DND living accommodations

8.7 An occupant must allow access to DND living accommodations to DND employees or contractors when required to enter in the performance of their duties. Except in after-hour emergencies or when the occupant’s consent has been obtained, the CFHA for RHUs or the base/wing accommodations section for furnished quarters will give the occupant written notice at least 24 hours before the required time of entry. The expected date, time, duration and the reason for entry will be stated in the notice.

8.8 In a local emergency, such as a fire, flood or gas leak, CFHA employees, DND employees or contractors may be required to enter a DND living accommodation in the performance of their duties without obtaining an occupant’s permission.

Note – When someone enters in an official capacity, depending on the circumstances, they may be required to document the nature of the problem or the condition of the premises by taking photographs.

Inspection of DND living accommodations

8.9 CAF members occupying DND living accommodations may be subject to inspections as per Queens Regulations and Orders 19.76, Inspections in Accordance with Custom or Practice of the Service.

Commercial use – residential housing units

8.10 An RHU may be used for commercial purposes, e.g. a daycare, so long as the commercial enterprise complies with provincial or territorial legislation and municipal by-laws governing that commercial enterprise. A written request must be presented to the local HSC to obtain the approval of both the HSC manager and the applicable base/wing commander. Additional information regarding this process is available from the local HSC.

Responsible pet ownership – residential housing units

8.11 The responsible pet ownership approach is founded on the idea of being a good neighbour to all others in the community, the humane treatment of animals and by avoiding damage to the RHU. Annex B outlines the expected behaviours of occupants towards pets and the conditions to which occupants and their pets must conform. Occupants who fail to comply will be administered as per Annex C – Violation Management-Residential Housing Units.

Violation management – DND living accommodations

8.12 An occupant of DND living accommodations may be removed from their allocated DND living accommodation if they fail to comply with their conditions of occupancy.

8.13 For an occupant of an RHU, non-compliance with the Licence to Occupy will be administered in accordance with Annex C – Violation Management-Residential Housing Units.

Note – When an occupant who is not subject to the Code of Service Discipline fails to comply with a duly authorized notice to vacate from an RHU or furnished quarters, the occupant, and their household, as applicable, may be removed as per Queen’s Regulations & Orders, Volume IV, Appendix 3.2, Defence Controlled Access Area Regulations or other applicable laws.

Expected behaviour – residential housing units

8.14 The occupant of an RHU, their household and any visitors must treat the CFHA’s staff, contractors and other occupants with respect. Harassment and violence will not be tolerated. Any confirmed incident, depending on its nature and severity, may lead to termination of the Licence to Occupy and the issuance of a Notice to Vacate. Other consequences may include ineligibility to re-apply or occupy an RHU.

8.15 The same behaviour is expected of an applicant and their household members and visitors; and if an incident is confirmed by CFHA, it may lead to their removal from the waitlist.

8.16 In all cases, the CAF member’s chain of command will be informed of any such incident by the HSC.

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9. Retention of accommodation

On duty – furnished quarters (residential)

9.1 A CAF member may retain a furnished quarter used for a residential need while absent on leave, or while absent from the base/wing, unit or element on duty, unless the base/wing commander considers that the exigencies of the service require the re-allocation of the furnished quarters.

9.2 A CAF member to whom furnished quarters have been allocated will not, without the approval of the base/wing commander, be removed by any other CAF member.

On release – DND living accommodations

9.3 An occupant is expected to vacate their DND living accommodation immediately upon their release from the CAF and is encouraged to make early provisions for an orderly transition to private sector housing. A released CAF member who qualifies for a last move at public expense (e.g. to intended place of residence) may be eligible to retain their allocated DND living accommodation on written approval from the appropriate local authority (HSC manager for an RHU or base/wing comd for furnished quarters).

9.4 A CAF member seeking to extend their occupancy beyond their date of release will submit a written request to the appropriate local authority (HSC manager for an RHU or base/wing comd for furnished quarters). A CAF member who takes their release and is eligible to elect a move to an Intended Place of Residence (IPR) may be authorized to continued occupancy up to two years or up to three years with an approved extension.

9.5 The appropriate local authority (HSC manager for an RHU or base/wing comd for furnished quarters) may authorize a CAF member to extend their occupancy beyond release date if they are enrolled in an approved career transition or training program, (e.g. vocational rehabilitation). Occupancy beyond release date will be for the period of the program, not to exceed two years.

9.6 Shelter charges will be at the established rate and will be recovered in advance (as per Financial Administration Manual (FAM) 1018-2, Control of Receivables, Public Revenue and Debt Deletion Authorities).

Deceased or missing CAF member – dependant request to retain

9.7 If a CAF member dies or is officially reported missing, a dependant or other household member living in the RHU may be eligible to retain the RHU for a period of time. The dependant will be administered according to the deceased or missing CAF member’s eligibility for a move to their Intended Place of Residence (IPR) (as per QR&O: Vol III, Ch.209, Payment of Travel and Living Expenses and Relocation Expenses). Household members not eligible to move at public expense under the CAF member’s IPR, must vacate no later than the dependant’s march-out date; if applicable, or when presented with a 90 days’ notice to vacate if there are no dependants in the RHU.

9.8 A Designated Assistant (DA), assigned as the CAF member’s representative, will act as the liaison between the CAF, the CFHA and the member’s representative. If retention of the RHU is being considered by the CAF member’s dependant, the DA will advise the local HSC accordingly and arrangements will be made.

Remote work – DND living accommodations

9.9 A CAF member occupying residential accommodations and who is approved for remote work (as per CAFMPI 01/22, Changing a Place of Duty and the Use of Postings to Enable Remote Work Options) will be permitted to retain their allocated accommodation.

Special commuting assistance – DND living accommodations

9.10 A CAF member occupying residential accommodations who is approved for Special Commuting Assistance and entitled to reimbursement (as per Compensation and Benefits Instruction 20 9.29, Special Commuting Assistance), will be permitted to retain their allocated accommodation.

Note – A CAF member occupying furnished quarters used for a residential need and who is approved to retain their accommodation may be required to vacate based on the operational requirements of the CAF.

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10. Requirement to vacate, evacuate or relocate

General

10.1 On occasion, an occupant and their household may be required to vacate, evacuate or relocate from DND living accommodations depending on the situation. As applicable, direction and information regarding eligibility for reimbursement may come from the local base/wing commander, the CFHA or the CAF member’s chain of command.

Vacate for emergency reasons

10.2 In an emergency as defined in article 1.02 of the Queen’s Regulations & Orders, Introduction and Definitions, an officer commanding a command having DND living accommodations provided on their bases/wings, may order an occupant to vacate DND living accommodations if required for operational purposes or for the accommodation of military personnel. In these circumstances direction, coordination, and any eligibility for reimbursement will be promulgated through the base/wing commander.

Vacate for higher priority occupants

10.3 A priority 4 occupant of a residential housing unit (RHU) may be required to relocate at their own expense if their allocated RHU is needed for a higher priority occupant (Section 5, Table 2). In this instance, the CFHA will terminate the occupant’s Licence to Occupy and issue 90 days’ notice to vacate on behalf of the MND.

10.4 An occupant of furnished quarters will receive local direction, promulgated through the local base/wing accommodations section or their chain of command, as applicable.

Evacuation

10.5 An occupant of DND living accommodations may be required to evacuate their assigned accommodation due to base/wing operational circumstances affecting the habitability of an accommodation. If the accommodation is an RHU, the base/wing commander will order the evacuation and a member is entitled to reimbursement (as per Compensation and Benefits Instruction (CBI) 208.9951, Temporary Evacuation of Family Housing). Under these circumstances, the CFHA is not responsible for any claims as they did not initiate the relocation.

10.6 For CAF members occupying furnished quarters, local direction to evacuate will be promulgated through their local accommodations section or their chain of command, as applicable.

Temporary relocation

10.7 The temporary relocation of an occupant may be required due to an unexpected event, other than a base/wing operational circumstance, that results in an RHU being deemed uninhabitable due to health and safety concerns. Depending on responsibility for the event, the occupant or the CFHA will cover the cost of repairs, additional living expenses, etc. as applicable. Once a physical inspection of the RHU is complete, the CFHA representative will discuss next steps with the occupant as the occupant may need to engage their insurance provider for assistance. If the RHU is later determined to be permanently uninhabitable, the CFHA representative will discuss next steps with the occupant.

10.8 An occupant of furnished quarters may be required to temporarily relocate based on local direction promulgated through the occupant’s local accommodations section or chain of command, as applicable.

Permanent relocation

10.9 In certain circumstances, an occupant of an RHU will be required to vacate a unit that is being taken out of service. In such instances where a permanent relocation is required, a CAF member who was allocated an RHU as a priority 1, 2 or 3 is entitled to local move expenses, funded and administered by the CFHA. CFHA will aim to provide an eligible occupant with a minimum of 90 days’ notice to vacate and where possible another RHU will be offered. Local move expenses may include but are not limited to:

  1. relocating dependants and household goods and effects from the RHU;
  2. interim accommodations and meals; and
  3. disconnection and connections charges, change of address fees, etc.

Note – Local move expenses do not include household members who are not dependants as defined in CBI 208.80(3), Relocation Benefits.

10.10 An occupant of furnished quarters may be directed to permanently relocate for any number of reasons. Local direction will be promulgated through the occupant’s local accommodations section or chain of command, as applicable.

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11. Charges

General

11.1 The CFHA determines the monthly charge for occupancy for RHUs as per QR&O Appendix 4.1, Regulations Respecting Charges for Residential Housing Units and as guided by the Isolated Posts and Government Housing Directive (IPGHD). This charge is deducted from a member’s pay and allowances in accordance with QR&O 208.51, Deductions for Provision of Residential Housing Units and Covered Residential Parking.

Note 1 – The monthly charge for occupancy comprises: the base shelter value (BSV) including any adjustments, any additional covered residential parking, and any bulk-billed utilities.

Note 2 – Once any adjustments are applied to the BSV component of the charge for occupancy, that component is referred to as the “shelter charge.”

11.2 The ADM(IE), in consultation with the Director General Compensation and Benefits (DGCB), determines the monthly charge to be applied for furnished quarters (as per QR&O 208.50, Deductions for Provision of Furnished Quarters and Covered Residential Parking). Except as indicated at paragraph 11.4, a CAF member who occupies furnished quarters is subject to deductions from their pay and allowances in the amount of the appropriate monthly charge, set out in QR&O 208.50.

Annual adjustment to the charge for occupancy – DND living accommodations

11.3 Base shelter values for DND living accommodations that are used for a residential purpose will be reviewed and adjusted annually by the CFHA for RHUs and by the ADM(IE) for DND furnished quarters. Updated values are applied each year on 1 May for RHUs and on 1 June for furnished quarters. These reviews are to be conducted early enough to provide an occupant with at least three months’ notice of any changes to their shelter charge. Total monthly shelter charge increases for an RHU occupant will normally not exceed the IPGHD limit, currently set at $100 annually. In addition to the annual review of base shelter values, the CFHA will review the charges for any additional parking and bulk-billed utilities associated with a given RHU and adjust those rates accordingly on the same annual adjustment cycle.

Note – The CFHA also has the authority to make additional adjustments on three months notice to the occupant.

Furnished quarters provided without charge

11.4 Furnished quarters will be provided without charge to the occupant:

  1. during a period of TD or attached posting away from the base/wing or unit location;
  2. when engaged in operations, training, field or operational exercises, operational readiness activities, military exhibitions, or when required for duty during a continuous state of readiness, wholly in support of the CAF as authorized by the L1 or other approving authority;
  3. when a CAF member is posted under circumstances that give rise to separation expense;
  4. when a CAF member stays in quarters in lieu of interim lodging;
  5. when a CAF member’s dependants have been moved in advance of the CAF member in accordance with relocation benefits;
  6. when a civilian stays at a base/wing on a recruiting visit;
  7. when an attached member of a NATO or other nation is authorized by NDHQ;
  8. when a CAF member or DND employee is required to temporarily occupy furnished quarters for service reasons on the approval of the base/wing, unit or element commanding officer;
  9. when an applicant for the Regular Force attends their enrolment ceremony or a recruit in the Regular Force undergoes personnel selection;
  10. when a CAF member or DND employee occupies accommodations on board ship or shelter in the field or other locations designated by the CDS or delegated authority; and
  11. when other persons stay in furnished quarters as may be prescribed by the CDS or delegated authority.

Note – The criterion for the provision of furnished quarters under b. is the non-practicality of the individual returning to their primary residence in such circumstances. The term “continuous state of readiness” may include local military operations, fire fighting or similar disaster duties, or aid to civil power.

Remission of charges for furnished quarters

11.5 CAF members who have not reached their Occupational Function Point (OFP) as outlined at DAOD 5031-8, Canadian Forces Professional Development may be entitled to have the deducted charges be wholly or partly remitted in accordance with QR&O 208.52, Remission of Charges Deducted for Provision of Furnished Quarters, Rations, Residential Housing Units or Covered Residential Parking. The provisions for entitlement are provided by CANFORGEN 180/22, Remit Charges for Rations and Quarters during Development Period 1.

Charge deductions – DND living accommodations

11.6 Deductions for DND living accommodation commence effective the date of occupancy and cease effective the date they are vacated. An exception is when occupancy begins on the 31st day of a month, in which case the effective date of occupancy remains the 31st but charges do not commence until the first of the following month. Additionally, an occupant is not charged for the day on which they vacate the DND living accommodation.

Maximum charge for occupancy - residential housing units

11.7 The maximum shelter charge for occupancy in an RHU is set in accordance with section 3 of the Regulations Respecting Charges for Residential Housing Units (found at Appendix 4.1 of Volume IV of the QR&Os). It should not exceed 25% of monthly gross household income. This maximum only applies for CAF members. Where the shelter charge exceeds that amount, the occupant may apply in writing to CFHA to have their shelter charge reduced to 25% of the monthly gross household income. Applications must be submitted annually and must include the necessary details to substantiate the monthly gross household income level. The initial application is included as part of the allocation offer for an RHU. Subsequent applications must be made each year concurrent with the annual rate adjustment. An occupant may also apply at any time through their local HSC, based on a change in personal circumstances.

11.8 An occupant cannot benefit from a reduction if they refused an allocation offer for an RHU within the bedroom eligibility range for their household size (as per Table 6) or if upon request they were allocated a larger RHU.

Maximum size norm - residential housing units

11.9 In a few rare instances where an RHU exceeds DND’s maximum size norm for housing of 232 sq m / 2500 sq ft, an occupant is not charged for liveable space in excess of this size norm. Associated abatements and reimbursements are described in Annex D – Designated Residences and Housing Exceeding the Size Norm.

Utility charges – DND living accommodations

11.10 For furnished quarters, utility charges are included in the charge for the quarters.

11.11 For RHUs, utilities are individually metered to the extent practicable, with the occupant paying invoiced charges directly to the supplier. Utilities not paid directly to the supplier are deemed to be supplied by the Government of Canada and are charged according to the current year’s IPGHD utilities formula. Annex D describes maximum charges, abatements and reimbursements for utility costs of RHUs that exceed the RHU maximum size norm.

Special reductions to charge for occupancy - residential housing units

11.12 Pursuant to section 4 of the Regulations Respecting Charges for Residential Housing Units (found at Appendix 4.1 of Volume IV of the QR&Os), the charge equal to the base shelter value may be adjusted as follows:

  1. reduce or waive the charge for base shelter value if a temporary, serious maintenance problem affecting habitability, and not due to a fault of the occupant, is not corrected within 30 days of the date it was reported in writing to CFHA;
  2. reduce the charge for base shelter value by not more than 50% if the occupant or another member of their household suffers a loss of privacy or quiet enjoyment in the RHU, described as follows:
    1. loss of privacy (e.g., access to the RHU by the general public, use of living area by contractor or evaluator). These are not inclusive of permanent items or conditions that exist such as housing near a boulevard, park or golf course.
    2. loss of enjoyment (e.g., temporary situation creating excessive noise, loss of access or use of some parts or whole of property). These are not inclusive of items such as permanent items or conditions that exist such as noisy location near schools, near an airport or industry.

Charges for covered residential oarking – residential housing units

11.13 Where covered residential parking is allocated as part of an RHU, the charge for this facility will be included with the BSV.

11.14 Where parking is provided separately, a separate charge will be imposed, based on charges for similar facilities in the private sector marketplace as determined in accordance with guidance provided by the Treasury Board. The CFHA will provide details to the occupant, in writing, of any change to covered residential parking charges as it occurs.

Charges for covered residential parking – furnished quarters

11.15 Where covered residential parking is provided separately to furnished quarters, a separate charge will be imposed, based on charges for similar facilities in the local private sector marketplace as determined in accordance with guidance provided by the Treasury Board. The ADM(IE) will provide details to the occupant, in writing, of any change to covered residential parking charges as it occurs.

Charges for trailer pads

11.16 The CFHA will promulgate and administer charges, based on local private sector market rates as determined according with guidance provided by the Treasury Board, for trailer pads, bulk services and utilities provided to an occupant of a privately-owned trailer/mobile home that is used as a primary residence, and will require the occupant to sign an occupancy agreement for use of DND property.

Charges to foreign military/exchange personnel

11.17 Charges for RHUs and furnished quarters occupied by foreign military and exchange personnel are levied in accordance with agreements and arrangements between Canada and other nations), except where the charge is determined by:

  1. the Minister of National Defence;
  2. an Order-in-Council; or
  3. a specific agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) negotiated between Canada and another nation.

11.18 These charges must be recovered as per Financial Administration Manual (FAM) Chapter 1018-2, Control of Receivables, Public Revenue and Debt Deletion Authorities.

Charges for an occupant who is missing, deceased, absent or in custody

11.19 Charges for a missing or deceased occupant of DND living accommodations will continue up to but not including the date that the accommodation is deemed to be empty (e.g. household members have vacated and personal belongings have been removed). If the deceased member was the sole occupant, these charges will continue to accrue and may be paid as a preferential charge pursuant to QR&O 25.03, Preferential Charges Against a Service Estate.

11.20 As in the case of a missing occupant, charges for an occupant who is an absentee as defined in CFAO 19-19, Disposal of Absentees or a CAF member who is in close custody, in civil custody, or undergoing detention or imprisonment, will continue for as long as their household members or personal belongings remain in the accommodation.

11.21 In cases where charges are owed but pay deductions are no longer feasible, charges must be recovered (as per FAM 1018-2).

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12. Liability and insurance

General

12.1 The DND does not carry insurance; therefore, any loss or damage to an occupant’s personal property, or to public or non-public property allocated or used by them, would normally be considered the responsibility of the occupant. Insurance coverage, such as for personal liability, contents (e.g. personal belongings) and additional living expenses, reduces an occupant’s financial risk should something occur.

Liability

12.2 An occupant will be held liable for any financial loss in connection with damage to or loss of public property or any other property that is incurred while occupying DND living accommodations, including that which is attributed to the conduct of other household members, pets and invited guests.

12.3 Recovery action for loss or damage attributed to the occupant will be initiated by CFHA or the base/wing as per FAM 1018-2, Control of Receivables, Public Revenue and Debt Deletion Authorities or as per QR&O 38, Liability for Public and Non-Public Property.

Note – For occupants and visitors who are not subject to the Code of Service Discipline, QR&O Appendix 3.2, Defence Controlled Access Area Regulations, or other applicable laws, outline a visitor’s responsibilities while accessing or using Crown property.

Insurance requirements

12.4 An occupant of a residential housing unit must have personal liability and contents insurance throughout occupancy in case the occupant is found liable due to negligence or willful damage to the RHU. The occupant’s contents Insurance will cover damage or loss to their personal property. This coverage will be confirmed by the local housing service centre before move-in and as needed. Insurance coverage for additional living expenses is also strongly recommended (e.g. in case such expenses are incurred due to a temporary relocation).

12.5 Where multiple CAF members occupy an RHU, those other than the occupant are also strongly encouraged to obtain the same insurance coverages as the occupant.

12.6 An occupant of furnished quarters must follow base/wing direction on insurance requirements; however; they should consider having the same coverages as an RHU occupant.

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13. Occupant complaint resolution process

General

13.1 An occupant who has had an issue with maintenance, services or service delivery while occupying DND living accommodations, and is not satisfied with the resolution of the issue, may submit a complaint to the CFHA for residential housing units (RHUs) or to the base/wing accommodations section for furnished quarters. Some examples of a complaint include:

  1. inadequate customer service;
  2. inadequate maintenance resolution (e.g. quality of work, timeliness);
  3. contractor issue; or
  4. neighbour issues involving non-compliance with the Licence to Occupy for RHUs or base/wing orders for furnished quarters.

Occupant complaint process – residential housing units

13.2 An occupant of an RHU can submit a complaint in writing through the CFHA Customer Complaint Resolution Process which is designed to review and to confirm that all applicable rules, regulations, practices and standards have been fairly and appropriately applied. Information regarding the CFHA Customer Complaint Resolution Process can be found on the CFHA Web site.

13.3 It is expected that most customer complaints will be resolved at the local level but if not, complaints can be escalated through CFHA regional or national managers if required. The final authority of the CFHA Customer Complaint Resolution Process is the Chief Executive Officer, CFHA.

Occupant complaint process – furnished quarters

13.4 An occupant of furnished quarters may submit a complaint to the base/wing accommodations section or to their chain of command for resolution. Complaints that are not resolved at the lowest levels can be escalated in accordance with an appropriate CAF process. Information regarding the various processes available to a CAF member can be sought through the Chief Professional Conduct and Culture Web site.

14. Designated residences

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15. References

Acts, regulations, central agency policies and associated DAOD

Other references

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16. Annexes

Annex A - Categories/types of furnished quarters

General

1.1 Subject to paragraph (2) and to any conditions prescribed by the Chief of the Defence Staff:

  1. a furnished quarter of a category prescribed for the intended purpose (see Section 7) will normally be allocated to meet the need; or
  2. a furnished quarter of a higher or lower category may be allocated if no furnished quarter of a category prescribed for the intended purpose is available. In such cases, the occupant will not be responsible to pay the increased rate prescribed for a furnished quarter of a higher standard.

1.2 Furnished quarters will be rated “very good”,” good”,” fair” or “poor”, as determined by the base/wing commander in consultation with the local Real Property Operations (RP Ops) unit. This determination will be made using previous room ratings to compare the current conditions of facilities and features provided in existing furnished quarters at their base/wing. Furnished quarter ratings are used to prescribe the associated charges for the room.

1.3 Table 1 provides a tool to set the rates to be deducted for furnished quarters according to an annual message from ADM(IE). Setting the rates by room code and rating is conducted as per QR&O 208.50.

Table 1 – Furnished quarters – category, type, room description, normal allocation and room code
Category (Current) (Note 1) Type (Legacy) (Note 1) Description - Furnished Quarter Normally Allocated To Room Code (Note 2) Rate percentage Furnished Quarter Rating
I I Dormitory or shared room with common bathroom
  • Private (Basic) (Pte (B)), Sailor 3rd Class (S3), Aviator (Basic) (Avr (B)),
  • Private (Trained) (Pte (T)), Sailor 2nd Class (S2), Aviator (Trained) (Avr (T)), and
  • Officer Cadet (OCdt), Naval Cadet (NCDT)
 A1 100% Very Good (VG)
A3 Good (G)
A5 Fair (F)
A7 Poor (P)
A2 50% VG
A4 G
A6 F
A8 P
I IIA Single room with wash basin and common bathroom
  • Sergeant (Sgt), Petty Officer 2nd class (PO2),
  • Warrant Officer (WO), Petty Officer 1st class (PO1), and
  • Master Warrant Officer (MWO), Chief Petty Officer 2nd class (CPO2)
 B1 100% VG
B3 G
B5 F
B7 P
B2 50% VG
B4 G
B6 F
B8 P
I IIB Single room (Modular) with common bathroom
  • (Pte (T)), (S2), (Avr (T)),
  • (Cpl), (S1), and
  • (MCpl), (MS)
 C1 100% VG
C3 G
C5 F
C7 P
C2 50% VG
C4 G
C6 F
C8 P
I IIIA Single room with wash basin and common bathroom
  • Sergeant (Sgt), Petty Officer 2nd class (PO2),
  • Warrant Officer (WO), Petty Officer 1st class (PO1), and
  • Master Warrant Officer (MWO), Chief Petty Officer 2nd class (CPO2)
 D1 100% VG
D3 G
D5 F
D7 P
D2 50% VG
D4 G
D6 F
D8 P
II IVB Single room with private bathroom
  • Chief Warrant Officer (CWO), Chief Petty Officer 1st class (CPO1),
  • Second Lieutenant (2lt), Acting Sub-Lieutenant (A/SLt),
  • Lieutenant (Lt), Sub-Lieutenant (SLt), and
  • Captain (Capt), Lieutenant (N) (Lt(N))
 E1 100% VG
E3 G
E5 F
E7 P
E2 50% VG
E4 G
E6 F
E8 P
II IIIB and IVA Single room with shared bathroom
  • Sergeant (Sgt), Petty Officer 2nd class (PO2),
  • Warrant Officer (WO), Petty Officer 1st class (PO1), and
  • Master Warrant Officer (MWO), Chief Petty Officer 2nd class (CPO2)
  • Chief Warrant Officer (CWO), Chief Petty Officer 1st class (CPO1),
  • Second Lieutenant (2lt), Acting Sub-Lieutenant (A/SLt),
  • Lieutenant (Lt), Sub-Lieutenant (SLt), and
  • Captain (Capt), Lieutenant (N) (Lt(N))
 F1 100% VG
F3 V
F5 F
F7 P
F2 50% VG
F4 G
F6 F
F8 P
II V Single room with private bathroom and sitting room
  • Major (Maj), Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr)
  • Lieutenant-Colonel (LCol), Commander (Cdr)
 G1 100% VG
G3 G
G5 F
G7 P
G2 50% VG
G4 G
G6 F
G8 P
III VI Single room with private bathroom, kitchenette and sitting room
  • Colonel (Col), Captain (N) (Capt (N)) and above
 H1 100% VG
H3 G
H5 F
H7 P
H2 50% VG
H4 G
H6 F
H8 P
    Combination, any type II and/or type III
  • Any combination of type II and/or type III
 J1 100% VG
J3 G
J5 F
J7 P
J2 50% VG
J4 G
J6 F
J8 P
     
  • Officer Cadets (OCdt) - Royal Military College of Canada (RMC)
 M1 100% VG
M3 G
M5 F
M7 P
M2 50% VG
M4 G
M6 F
M8 P

Note 1 – The term “category” is currently used to define the standards of furnished quarters (used for training). In the past, the term “type” was used, which remains relevant as most bases/wings will have a mix of old and new furnished quarters available, the former having been constructed to conform to the older standard. Fortunately, there is a close correlation between the description of old and new standards, allowing the same rates to be applied to both.

Note 2 – When rating DND quarters, lighting, insulation, heating, ventilation, connectivity, electrical equipment, outlets and quality of furnishings should be considered

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Annex B - Responsible pet ownership – residential housing units

General

Application

Provincial/territorial legislation, regulations and municipal by-laws

Note – CAF members should be aware that their choices concerning the type and quantities of animals that they acquire while posted in one jurisdiction may create difficulty if posted/relocated to another.

Pet owner responsibilities

Acceptable pets

Table 1 – Acceptable pets in RHUs
Acceptable Examples of acceptable pets
Amphibians except those that are venomous or poisonous E.g. frogs, toads, newts, salamanders
Arachnids except those that are venomous or poisonous E.g. spiders, scorpions
Birds born in captivity except pigeons and birds of prey E.g. Finches, sparrows, parrots
Small caged mammals E.g. African pigmy hedgehogs, hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, rats, rabbits, ferrets, gerbils and chinchillas
Cats (domestic) only E.g. Maine Coon, Persian, Tabby
Dogs domestic, except those that are a restricted breed as per provincial/territorial legislation, regulations and municipal by-laws E.g. Labrador Retriever, Chihuahua, Bernese Mountain Dog.
Fish or crustaceans of a size and type suitable for captivity within an aquarium with a volume of 20-gallons or less, except those that are venomous or poisonous. E.g. Betta Fish, Fancy Guppy, Angelfish
Reptiles born in captivity except those that are venomous or poisonous or which can exceed 1m in length at maturity. E.g. Geckos, Kenyan Sand Boa, turtles, and tortoises

Note – All amphibians, arachnids, birds, reptiles and insects must be kept in an unbreachable cage, terrarium or aquarium. Insects used for feeding are exempt.

Prohibited pets

Table 2 – Prohibited pets
- Prohibited Examples:
Mammals All Artiodactyla E.g. cattle, goats, sheep, pigs including minipigs and pot-bellied pigs
All Canidae except domesticated dogs (canis lupus familiaris) E.g. coyotes, wolves, foxes, and hybrid wolf dogs
All Chiroptera E.g. bats
All Edentates E.g. anteaters, sloths, and armadillos
All Erinaceidae except the African pigmy Hedgehog E.g. Hedgehogs and Moonrats
All Felidae except domestic cats (felis catus) E.g. tigers, leopards, cougars, servals and wildcats
All Hyaenidae E.g. hyenas
All Lagomorpha except rabbits E.g. hares and pikas
All Marsupials E.g. kangaroos, opossums, and wallabies
All Mephitidae E.g. skunks and stink badgers
All Mustelidae except ferrets E.g. mink, weasels, otters, and badgers
All Pinnipeds E.g. seals, fur seals, and walruses
All Primates E.g. apes, monkeys, and prosimians
All Perissodactyla E.g. horses, donkeys, jackasses, and mules
All Proboscidae E.g. elephants
All Procyonidae E.g. raccoons, coatimundi, and cacomistles
All Rodentia except hamsters, guinea pigs, domesticated mice & rats, chinchillas, and gerbils E.g. beavers, squirrels, porcupines, chipmunks, prairie dogs, groundhogs, and gophers
All Ursidae E.g. bears
All Viverridae E.g. such as mongooses, civets, and genets
Birds All Anseriformes E.g. ducks, geese, swans, and screamers
All Columbidae E.g. pigeons and doves
All Galliformes E.g. chickens, pheasants, grouse, guinea fowls, and turkeys
All Gruiformes E.g. cranes and rails
All Phoenicopteriformes E.g. flamingos
All Sphenisciformes E.g. penguins
All Struthioniformes E.g. flightless ratites such as ostriches, rheas, cassowaries, emus, and kiwis
All Birds of Prey E.g. hawks, eagles, buzzards, vultures, owls, falcons, harriers, and kites
Reptiles All Crocodylia E.g. alligators, crocodiles, and caimans
All venomous and poisonous Snakes. E.g. Cottonmouth, vipers, copperheads
All non-venomous Snakes which reach an adult length of 1m or greater at maturity.
Note: These are prohibited regardless of what length the snake is currently.		 E.g. Boa Constrictor, and Eastern Milk Snake
All venomous or poisonous Lizards. E.g. Gila Monster, Mexican Bearded Lizard
All non-venomous lizards which reach an adult length of 1m or greater at maturity.
Note: These are prohibited regardless of what length the lizard is currently.		 E.g. komodo dragons, iguanas, and water monitor lizard
Other All protected or endangered species whether native or non-native species. E.g. Whooping Crane, Leatherback Turtle, Eastern Tiger Salamander
All Insects (except those used for feeding), including bees E.g. Cockroaches, bees & beehives, crickets
All venomous and poisonous animals, even if de-venomized E.g. Tarantula, and poison dart frog

Note – Animals and insects not listed in the above are considered prohibited until such time as they are reviewed by the policy issuing authority. Requests for amendments to the acceptable animals list are to be submitted to CMP or ADM(IE) via the respective L1.

Quantity of pets and enclosures

Note 1 – Pets are to be in accordance with acceptable pet list at Section 9.

Note 2 – Some limits are set to conform to the number of pets that can be moved to any location in Canada and to prevent damage to an RHU.

Note 3 – In the event of a pet giving birth causing the occupant to exceed the quantity of pets allowed, a grace period of up to 16 weeks (4 months) applies to provide sufficient time to find new homes for all excess pets. Occupants are encouraged to start looking for new homes for their pets during the pregnancy period to avoid any excess to the quantity of pets allowed in an RHU. Neither the DND nor the CFHA have any responsibility in finding homes for pets. Any perceived breeding (meaning intentional pregnancy or pregnancy due to negligence in keeping potential mates apart) constitutes an infraction or violation in accordance with paragraph 1.22 of this Annex.

Service dogs and emotional support animals

Licencing and registration

Vaccination

Pet health, wellness, and animal abuse

Control of pets

Note – Enclosures are not provided by the CFHA and permission must be sought from the local HSC to construct any enclosures. Enclosures must meet the standards of construction expected by the CFHA.

Pet waste

Excessive noise from pets

Breeding of pets

Pet related home-based businesses

Pet attacks

Aggressive dogs

Injuries/damage caused by pets

Note – For greater certainty, no other action against an occupant (e.g. charged with a crime, fined by local authorities, etc.) precludes DND authorities from taking appropriate action against an occupant for the same matter.

Additional prohibitions, restrictions and exceptions

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Annex C - Violation management – residential housing units

General

Application

Infraction notice

Escalation process – violations

Notice of licence termination and order to vacate an RHU

Continue occupancy - exceptional circumstances

Infraction and violation monitoring

Severe violations

Compliant resolution process

Reapplication for an RHU

Expected behaviour of RHU applicants

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Annex D - Designated residences and residential housing units exceeding the size norm

Definitions

Assigned residence
A residential housing unit that is designated in support of a CAF function attributable to the exigencies of military service or designated occupant's position or role on the unit establishment.
Benchmarking adjustment
An adjustment applied where the application of a size suitability adjustment results in a shelter charge that would be less than that of other residential housing units in the same geographic location that are not subject to a similar automatic adjustment and where shelter charges would therefore normally equate to base shelter value.
Designated occupant
The individual occupying a position for which a designated residence has been assigned.
Designated residence
A residential housing unit that is designated to satisfy specific service requirements of the CAF and/or statutory departmental heritage responsibilities of DND. Designated residences are sub-categorized as “assigned” to meet an identified CAF requirement or as “heritage” where the character of the building must be maintained and protected in accordance with federal and departmental policies and procedures. Some designated residences are both “assigned” and “heritage”.
Designated residences authority
CMP is the departmental authority responsible for the establishment, change or discontinuation of the sub-category of “assigned” designated residences on the recommendation of the appropriate L1.
Heritage residence
A residential housing unit that has been designated as a recognized or classified Federal Heritage Building by Parks Canada/Federal Heritage Building Review Office (FHBRO) in accordance with TB Policy.
Non-designated residence
Residential housing units other than those designated as Assigned or Heritage.
Size suitability adjustment
232 square metres (2500 square feet) has been identified as the maximum size norm (i.e. upper limit of size suitability) for residential housing units. In recognition of this limit, a size suitability adjustment for all residential housing units over 232 square metres is automatically applied such that each unit is assessed a shelter charge as if it were a unit of 232 square metres in the local private sector marketplace.

Operating principles: designation of residences

Operating principles: support to designated residences

Operating principles: allocation of and support to assigned residences

Operating principles: allocation of and support to heritage residences

Operating principles: size suitability adjustment for RHUs exceeding the size norm

Note – CFHA is responsible to apply benchmarking to ensure that the application of an SSA never results in a shelter charge of an oversized RHU being less than that of other DND housing units in the same geographic location where shelter charges would normally equate to BSV.

Operating principles: utility charges to heat RHUs exceeding the size norm

Operating principles: assigned residence loss of privacy

Operating principles: designated residence maintenance and service

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2026-01-13