Build Canada Homes: A Transformative Initiative for Housing in Canada
Introduction
On September 14, 2025, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) heralded a pivotal moment in Canada’s ongoing housing crisis with its endorsement of the federal government’s Build Canada Homes (BCH) initiative. This approach marks a concerted effort to tackle the housing shortage by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders—including municipalities, provinces, territories, Indigenous governments, housing providers, non-profits, and developers. The goal is straightforward yet ambitious: to construct 500,000 homes per year to meet the urgent housing needs of Canadians.
A Unified Front Against the Housing Crisis
The BCH initiative stands as a testament to the federal government’s commitment to addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing—a sentiment echoed by Rebecca Bligh, President of FCM. She emphasized the importance of municipalities as vital players in this quest, noting that local governments are already in the trenches, addressing homelessness and generating solutions tailored to community needs. FCM commends the federal government for prioritizing supportive and transitional housing, which are essential for Canadians experiencing homelessness. However, they stress the necessity of sustained federal-provincial funding to make inroads in managing homeless encampments effectively.
The Critical Role of Municipal Governments
Municipalities have an indispensable role in the successful execution of the BCH initiative. They have the resources and authority to expedite zoning approvals, land utilization, infrastructure development, and community planning—all fundamental to aligning housing projects with community needs. The BCH initiative presents an opportunity for these local governments to take the lead further, contributing not only land but also advocating for modular construction methods that promise speed and cost-effectiveness.
Infrastructure: The Backbone of Housing
While BCH is a significant leap forward, FCM contends that achieving the federal goal of 500,000 homes calls for comprehensive investments in the infrastructure that supports these housing projects. Essential elements include roads, water systems, public transit, and other community infrastructure. Initiatives such as the Canada Community-Building Fund can provide the needed financial backing to ensure that infrastructure aligns with housing development, ushering in a new era of robust community support.
A Blueprint for Success: FCM’s Recommendations
To ensure the effective implementation of the BCH initiative, FCM has outlined specific recommendations aimed at aiding its success. These include:
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Speed, Predictability, and Scale: The BCH should build on proven models like the Rapid Housing Initiative to facilitate swift and efficient housing development.
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Continuity and Stability: Recognizing that establishing BCH will take time, it is critical to sustain momentum in funding and prioritizing ongoing projects, such as those under the Affordable Housing Fund.
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Infrastructure Alignment: Housing investments must coincide with predictable funding for enabling infrastructure to lay the groundwork for sustainable communities.
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Capacity Building: Smaller communities and non-profit developers may need additional support to ensure that housing projects come to fruition across all regions.
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Repairs and Conversions: The initiative should incentivize the renovation and repurposing of older buildings to create affordable housing more quickly and cost-effectively.
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Long-Term Affordability: By redeveloping underused public properties, the federal government can ensure deeper affordability for low-income Canadians, particularly if land remains under public ownership.
- Regional Equity: The initiative should span beyond urban areas, ensuring that affordable housing is developed in rural, northern, and mid-sized communities, benefitting a broader demographic.
Modular Housing: A Happy Medium
FCM highlights a unique opportunity within the BCH initiative to catalyze Canada’s modular housing sector. This method not only promises high-quality permanent homes delivered more rapidly and economically but also supports Canadian manufacturing and construction jobs—an attractive proposition in a time of economic fluctuation.
Conclusion: The Path Ahead
As more details about the Build Canada Homes initiative are unveiled, and with the federal budget looming, collaboration will be paramount in addressing the housing and homelessness crisis. The FCM continues to advocate for comprehensive actions to support deeply affordable housing, underpinning the infrastructure and tools communities require for success. The call to action is clear: with cohesive efforts and innovative strategies, Canada can begin to turn the tide against the current housing challenges, creating sustainable and vibrant communities for all.
By taking collective action today, we can pave the way for a future where affordable housing is not merely a privilege but a right enjoyed by every Canadian.
