Tenant Assistance Policy
As of July 2026, the City of New Westminster has an updated Tenant Assistance Policy to provide better support for renters who are affected by the redevelopment of their purpose-built market rental homes.
The updated Tenant Assistance Policy was endorsed by City Council on July 13, 2026. It provides support beyond the protections available under the provincial Residential Tenancy Act. It is intended to help reduce the risk of tenants being displaced from their homes, support long-term housing stability, and help preserve affordable rental options for eligible tenants who return to a redeveloped purpose-built rental building.
Benefits available under the updated tenant assistance policy
Eligible tenants affected by redevelopment of primarily purpose-built market rental homes can receive support to return to a home in the new building, receive financial assistance if a temporary move is required, and receive support with moving costs.
Returning to a Replacement Unit
Eligible tenants will have the opportunity to return to a replacement rental home in the redeveloped building. The replacement home will be of comparable size and have at least the same number of bedrooms as their current home. Returning tenants will pay the same rent they were paying before moving, plus any annual rent increases permitted under the Residential Tenancy Act.
Support if a Temporary move is required
Some redevelopment projects require tenants to move temporarily while new rental homes are being built. When this happens, eligible tenants can receive financial support to help cover increased housing costs during the temporary move.
Tenants can receive support through a Tenant Assistance Coordinator who can help identify suitable temporary rental options, or they can choose their own temporary housing, all while receiving rent-top up assistance to help cover the difference in rent. Eligible tenants can also have the option to receive a one-time lump sum payment instead of monthly financial support.
If tenants are able to remain in their current home while replacement homes are being constructed, temporary relocation support—including lump sum payments—would not be required.
Help with moving Costs
Eligible tenants will receive assistance with moving costs when a move is required because of redevelopment. This includes support for moving from their current home to temporary housing, if needed, and moving from temporary housing into their new home once construction is complete.
Tenants can choose to have a moving company arranged on their behalf or receive a set payment to arrange their own move.
For more information, please Review the following resources
Additional questions can be sent to .
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tenant Assistance Policy?
The Tenant Assistance Policy helps protect eligible tenants when their rental building is being redeveloped. It provides support that goes beyond provincial tenancy rules, including moving assistance, temporary housing support, and the opportunity to return to the new building.
When does the Tenant Assistance Policy apply?
The policy applies to eligible development applications submitted on or after December 1, 2025. It applies to eligible tenants who were living in the building when the development application was submitted.
What benefits are available under the Tenant Assistance Policy?
Eligible tenants may receive:
- The opportunity to return to a comparable unit in the new building at their previous rent, plus any annual rent increases permitted under provincial legislation.
- Temporary housing assistance while construction is underway.
- Moving assistance. This includes moving to a temporary unit and also moving to the replacement unit in the new building once complete.
- The lump-sum compensation option is tied specifically to situations where interim housing compensation applies; that is, where tenants must temporarily relocate before moving into their replacement home.
So eligible tenants can return to the new building?
Yes. Eligible tenants have the first opportunity to return to a comparable replacement unit in the new building. The replacement unit will have at least the same number of bedrooms, be of a comparable size and will be offered at the tenant's previous rent, plus any annual rent increases permitted under provincial legislation.
What support is available during construction?
If temporary relocation is required, the developer must provide interim housing assistance. This may include temporary housing with rent top-up support, or a one-time lump sum payment, depending on the option selected by the tenant.
Is additional support available for more vulnerable tenants, including seniors and persons with disabilities?
Yes. Additional assistance is available for tenants who identify that they require extra support. This may include greater one-on-one assistance, transportation to view temporary housing, help finding accessible housing, or translation services.
Does the policy apply to all rental homes?
No. The policy primarily applies to purpose-built rental housing and certain smaller secondary rental units that are part of larger consolidated redevelopment projects. It does not apply to all secondary rental housing, such as rented condominiums or basement suites.
Does the Tenant Assistance Policy work with other City housing policies?
Yes, the Tenant Assistance Policy will work alongside the City's other housing policies. Together, these policies help protect existing renters while supporting the delivery of new affordable housing.
I still have questions about the policy. To whom should I reach out to?