Human Rights and Housing 

In Canada, human rights laws on housing exist at both the federal and provincial levels to protect individuals from discrimination and ensure fair treatment in housing-related matters

Federal Level

1. Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA):

The CHRA prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, disability, and genetic characteristics.   

- The Act applies to federally regulated housing providers, such as those involved in providing housing through federal programs.**2. National Housing Strategy Act:

- Enacted in 2019, this Act recognizes housing as a fundamental human right and aims to improve housing outcomes for vulnerable populations in Canada.   

- It establishes the Federal Housing Advocate and the National Housing Council to oversee and promote the right to housing.

Provincial Level

Each province in Canada has its own human rights legislation that addresses housing discrimination. Here are a few examples:

1. British Columbia:

BC Human Rights Code:

Prohibits discrimination in tenancy agreements and housing-related services based on race, color, ancestry, place of origin, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, and lawful source of income.

2. Nova Scotia:

Nova Scotia Human Rights Act:

Protects individuals from discrimination in housing based on age, race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, irrational fear of contracting an illness or disease, ethnic, national or aboriginal origin, family status, marital status, source of income, and political belief, affiliation, or activity.

Key Points

Discrimination in housing based on protected characteristics is prohibited across Canada.

- Housing providers must accommodate individuals with disabilities to the point of undue hardship.

- Complaints about discrimination can be filed with provincial human rights commissions or tribunals.

- Federal laws and strategies aim to ensure fair housing practices and address systemic issues in housing access and affordability.

These laws are designed to create inclusive and equitable housing opportunities for all Canadians.