What is co-operative housing?
Co-op housing is when a group of people work together to manage their own housing. Housing co-ops are run entirely by their own members, who are all volunteers.
Each co-op is responsible for managing the co-ops finances, arranging property maintenance, tenancy and administration.
Being a member of a co-operative requires you to contribute, be involved and learn new skills.
What level and type of involvement are expected from members?
Every member of a housing co-operative is expected to actively engage in its overall management and operation, which demands a significant commitment of time and effort. Here’s what’s typically required:
- Attending and actively participating in regular meetings where members collectively make decisions about how the co-op is run.
- Taking on an official role such as chairperson, secretary, treasurer, or maintenance officer for a specific period and fulfilling the responsibilities associated with that role.
- Being open to learning how to perform these roles as needed.
- Participating in training to develop and maintain skills related to the co-op’s management and operation.
- Actively joining in scheduled working sessions (working bees).
The exact nature and extent of participation can vary slightly from one housing co-operative to another.
Are pets allowed?
The rules within each housing co-operative are determined collectively by its members. The majority of CEHL co-ops have chosen to permit pets, while others have opted not to do so.
How long is the waiting period?
The duration of the time you may be on the application list varies for each housing co-operative. Typically, waiting times are quite lengthy as the turnover of residents is relatively low. We recommend initiating the application process as early as possible and making alternative housing arrangements in the meantime because the timing of home availability cannot be predicted.
What kinds of people live in housing co-operatives?
Housing co-operatives are home to a diverse range of people. CEHL co-ops accommodate various household types, including single adults, couples, families, and residents spanning all age groups, from infants to senior citizens. While some housing co-operatives have a wide mix of household types, ages, and other characteristics, others may predominantly consist of residents who share common traits. This often happens because many co-ops were initially established by a group of like-minded individuals, sometimes of similar ages, cultures, or backgrounds. However, these characteristics can evolve over time.
Is each home self-contained, or are some facilities shared?
Each home is self-contained. Some housing co-operatives also provide shared facilities like a laundry, office space, a communal hall, or other shared spaces.
What do the houses look like?
Houses can vary from one housing co-operative to another, but they all provide high-quality, well-kept housing. Some homes are original houses, units, or townhouses, while others have been specifically built. Homes come in various sizes, starting from one bedroom and going up. When homes become too old to maintain appropriately, they are retired (sold), and replacement property is sourced for the co-op.
Is emergency housing available?
CEHL does not provide emergency housing services. If you require emergency housing assistance, find a list of contacts in our services guide.
Do residents own or rent their homes?
Co-op housing is when a group of people work together to manage their own housing. Housing co-ops are run entirely by their own members, who are all volunteers.
Each co-op is responsible for managing the co-ops finances, arranging property maintenance, tenancy and administration.
Being a member of a co-operative requires you to contribute, be involved and learn new skills.
Once I move into a vacant home, how long can I stay?
Housing co-operatives offer sustainable, long-term housing solutions. You can continue living in a housing co-operative as long as you are a positive, active participant in the co-op.
Are the gardens shared or private?
This varies from one housing co-operative to another. Some have private gardens, some have shared gardens, and some provide a mix of both options.
How are new residents selected?
When a home becomes vacant, existing members evaluate each individual on the waiting list based on:
- their position on the waiting list.
- continued eligibility based on criteria.
- matching household size with the available home.
- any specific criteria established by the housing co-operative.
What is co-op housing?
A housing co-operative is a community of people who work together to meet their housing needs.
