The Province is tying the annual allowable rent increase in 2025 to inflation at 3%, down from this year’s allowable increase of 3.5%.

Six-month progress updates from the first 10 priority communities selected for housing targets by the Province show that more than 4,000 net new homes have been built for people and more are coming as the second set of targets are released.

The final legislative session for the 42nd parliament delivered action to help people in B.C. with new laws and measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures, delivering more homes for people with middle incomes and improving public health care.

Improvements to the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program and a one-time rental benefit of $430 will bring relief for families and seniors with low incomes who are receiving a rent subsidy through the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) and SAFER program.

The Province has updated the Provincial Policy Manual: Transit-Oriented Areas (TOA manual) to ensure local governments are supported in delivering the housing and amenities people need in areas near transit hubs.

More renters with low to moderate incomes will be able to get financial support as the Province provides additional funding to BC Rent Bank to help people sustain their housing when faced with an unanticipated financial challenge.

More affordable housing options are on the way for people in B.C. as eligibility for the upcoming Secondary Suites Incentive Program (SSIP) is being expanded to 15 regional districts.