Redeveloping properties requires the temporary displacement of tenants, creating a significant challenge for housing providers and developers. The dual hurdles of finding suitable interim housing and managing financial constraints make the process complex and, at times, overwhelming.
Some social housing providers attempt to address this issue by keeping units vacant in other properties to house displaced tenants during redevelopment. While this helps to a degree, it is not an ideal solution as it reduces the overall availability of affordable housing—a resource already in critical demand.
This challenge is not limited to non-profit housing providers. Many development companies face the same issue with older buildings ready for redevelopment. Even when existing tenants are guaranteed housing at the same rental rates in the new development, the pressing question remains: Where can they be housed during the interim?
In addition, new housing legislation that permits gentle density increases on residential properties offers a promising opportunity. With tens of thousands of potential sites in Vancouver alone for secondary suites, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), duplexes, and multiplexes, we have the means to address this challenge—but a coordinated strategy is essential.
A Promising Opportunity
Recent housing legislation permitting gentle density increases on residential properties offers a pathway forward. Vancouver alone has tens of thousands of potential sites for secondary suites, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), duplexes, and multiplexes. These options could provide interim housing solutions for displaced tenants, but a coordinated strategy is essential to unlock this potential.
A Long-Term Solution
A sustainable approach requires a forward-thinking strategy to minimize disruption and ensure housing continuity during redevelopment. The solution lies in building ‘transitional or Interim Residences’— dedicated, purpose-built housing that can accommodate displaced tenants over the extended periods required for redevelopment.
Key features of this approach include:
Strategic Development: Purpose-built interim residences designed to house tenants temporarily, minimizing displacement and disruption.
Mixed Housing Options: Incorporating affordable, mid-market, and revenue-generating units to ensure financial sustainability.
Leveraging Legislation: Utilizing newly available density opportunities to create ADUs and multiplexes, providing additional housing capacity.
By proactively funding and creating sufficient interim housing, we can transform redevelopment from a disruptive necessity into a seamless and sustainable process. Together, we can ensure that redevelopment enhances communities without sacrificing housing security.