Living in Canada
It is important to consider the cost of living and housing when preparing
financially for your studies. Depending on the type of accommodation you are looking
for, rentals can range from, $1,000 (bedroom in a shared house) to $3,000 (condo or
small home).
Please reference the Cost of Living Calculator available on the British Columbia website
to give you an approximate idea of living and housing costs:
WorkBC- Cost of Living
Calculator
Housing and Living Costs
Applicants should consider all living costs when determining the financial resources they will need to have available during their studies. This should include: Housing (rental payments), Utility payments (Hydro, water, gas, hot water tank rental, propane tank rentals), Food (groceries, restaurants, food delivery services may charge additional fees), Transportation (vehicle costs, insurance, car payments, maintenance, public transit fees), Clothing and Personal Items, Entertainment Costs.
Based on the Government of Canada website, most Canadians spend 35% to 50% of their income on housing and utilities. Please use the calculator in the Living in Canada section to determine your estimated living costs. Government of Canada-Prepare Financially.
Please see a list of resources to find housing. Ensure to enter the Province as British Columbia and city as New Westminster. Note: To avoid scams, do not provide any rental deposits until you see the unit in person.
VCDH is listing the websites below as suggestions ONLY and is not responsible or liable for your tenancy or payments to the landlord.
Realtors are a great option for tenants. In most cases, the landlord pays the realtor, making it free for tenants. When using Realtor.ca, ensure to select Filters > Transaction Type > For Rent.
Tenancy rights
As a tenant, you have rights! In most rentals, a Tenancy Agreement is required. This is a contract between a landlord and tenant that is signed by both parties. This agreement, also called a lease, will include the cost of your rent, whether it is a fixed term or monthly term and standard terms describing rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.
The British Columbia government website provides detailed information regarding Tenancy Agreements (Leases), your rights during your tenancy, ending a tenancy, rent increases and more. It is highly recommended that all future and current tenants read through the Residential Tenancy Agreement and the British Columbia Residential Tenancies website prior to signing so you know what is required of you and your landlord: