Construction industry coalition to combat the housing crisis
As part of the 2023–2024 provincial pre-budget consultations, the Association de la construction du Québec (ACQ), the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l’habitation du Québec (APCHQ), the Corporation des propriétaires immobiliers du Québec (CORPIQ) and the Urban development institute of Quebec (UDI) are joining forces to propose specific measures to the Quebec government to address the major issues faced by the housing industry in recent years, including a severe housing shortage, the worst affordability levels in decades and the climate crisis. The construction and real estate industries are combining their strengths and expertise to make actionable recommendations meant to effectively address the housing crisis.
Towards a sustainable housing industry
As Quebec households face the highest inflation rate in 40 years, the province is suffering from a significant shortage of all types of housing, which has led to the current crisis of availability and affordability. The APCHQ estimates that at least 100,000 housing units are currently needed in Quebec just to rebalance the market. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) agrees, stating that 620,000 additional units will be needed by 2030 to restore affordability.
To improve the supply of housing and thereby establish a long-term vision for overcoming the housing crisis, the ACQ, the APCHQ, CORPIQ and the UDI propose that the government obtain a precise diagnosis of the current state of the housing sector to identify existing needs and issues. Such a project will make it possible to draw up a multi-year plan to achieve the housing start targets, as it is essential to respond quickly to the urgent housing needs and establish a long-term vision.
During the Quebec government’s pre-budget consultations, our coalition put forward solutions designed to facilitate access to home ownership, stimulate more rental housing construction across Quebec and review the many mechanisms that are holding back housing starts in the province. Everyone agrees that the Quebec government must provide more support to the construction industry to make sure that the housing crisis does not grow worse, leaving vulnerable people in a difficult position. The next budget must send a clear signal to the entire industry and take more concrete steps towards greening the housing sector, particularly in the areas of renovation and energy efficiency.
To read all the recommendations, click here (in French).
