Durham Housing

Facts

Find answers to common questions about our housing programs and services.

Community housing provides safe, affordable homes for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. Rent may be geared to income (RGI) or set at an affordable or market rate, depending on the unit and funding program.

Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria under the Housing Services Act can apply. Generally, applicants must:

  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Be able to live independently
  • Have legal status in Canada (citizen, permanent resident, or refugee claimant)
  • Not owe money to another community housing provider
You can apply through Durham Access to Social Housing (DASH) online or by completing a paper application form. Visit: www.durham.ca/housing → Apply for Subsidized Housing.

RGI rent is based on about 30% of your gross monthly household income. The Region of Durham subsidizes the remaining rent portion directly to the housing provider.

  • Affordable rent is typically set at or below 80% of average market rent in Durham Region.
  • Market rent units are priced at similar levels to other private rentals in the area.

Wait times vary depending on the size and type of unit, your location preferences, and your priority status. In Durham Region, wait times for RGI and Market can be several years.

If you’re offered a unit, you’ll meet with the Tenant Placement Specialist to review your lease or occupancy agreement, complete income verification (if RGI), and arrange a move-in date.

Yes, except if you are a landed immigrant or  have legal status in Canada (such as a permanent resident or refugee claimant) and meet other eligibility criteria.

Our community housing team works with local partners to connect tenants with supports such as:

  • Life Skills supports
  • Financial assistance and food supports
  • Mental health and wellness resources
  • Family, senior and youth programs
  • Assistance completing documents

You can report maintenance issues by:

  • Calling our office during business hours
  • Submitting a maintenance request online or in writing
  • Contacting the emergency maintenance line after hours for urgent repairs (e.g., no heat, water leaks, electrical hazards)

Tenants are responsible for:

  • Paying rent on time
  • Keeping their unit clean and in good condition
  • Respecting neighbors and staff
  • Following the terms of their lease

Tenants can participate in community events, groups, volunteer programs

We encourage tenants to first speak with staff to resolve issues informally. If the issue remains unresolved, you can submit a Tenant Complaint Form or follow our Tenant Complaint Procedure outlined on our website.

/ 28A Albert St,
Oshawa ON L1H 8S5

/ drnphc@durham-housing.com

/ Phone: 905.436.6610

/ Fax: 905.436.5361

/ Ajax: 905.686.1278

  • Put in envelope give to superintendent ,  PM or Community Support Specialist
  • Mail via Canada Post. 28A Alber St.
  • Drop box at 28 Albert Street, Oshawa or in person at front desk
  • Email drnphc@durham-housing.com

Contact office 905-436-6610 or email Rent Assessment Specialist Janie.Shields@durham-housing.com

Contact CRA automated service (instructions in annual review package) or log into your My Service Account *** we could also upload the instructions

  • Check community bulletin board & common areas, notices are posted when Annual Reviews are mailed out
  • contact Janie.Shields@durham-housing.com
  • call 905-436-6610 ext 217

On line , find hyperlink

Yes, all applicants are required to view a unit in person before accepting the offer. This ensures you make an informed decision and that the home meets your needs.