About Co-ops

Exterior photo of Abiwin co-op

A housing co-operative is a democratically controlled association formed to provide housing for its members. The typical Canadian housing co-operative owns houses or apartments and rents them to members for an indefinite period of time on a non-profit basis. When a member moves out, their membership lapses.

Co-ops are different from other forms of non-profit housing. They are governed by a board of directors elected by the members, who are also the residents. Members approve budgets, appoint the auditor and set many of the co-op’s policies.

You can find more information about Canadian housing co‑operatives on the website of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada) and housing co‑operatives around the world on the website of Co-operative Housing International.

Tip of the Month

Capital Reserve Balance

61% of Agency clients hold a capital reserve balance of at least $6,000 per unit. By almost doubling the amount from 2007, co-ops are nearly twice as ready to meet their future needs.