Nova Scotians now have access to more affordable housing options, thanks to the province’s partnership with online home-sharing platform Happipad. Initially launched in the spring to assist people displaced by wildfires, the program is now available to residents across Nova Scotia. The provincial government has committed $1.3 million over two years to support the expansion of this initiative.
Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr highlighted the importance of collective action in overcoming the housing crisis in the province. With approximately 130,000 vacant bedrooms in Nova Scotia, the expanded program aims to match people in need, such as students, healthcare workers, and tradespersons, with available rooms for safe, comfortable, and short-term accommodations. The partnership emphasizes the hospitable nature of Nova Scotians in providing a helping hand to those seeking affordable housing.
Happipad is known for its comprehensive approach, conducting thorough background checks for both renters and hosts. The platform facilitates matches between renters and hosts, collects and distributes rent, and offers dispute resolution support for any concerns that may arise. Additionally, staff in Nova Scotia will provide user support for the service.
One of the significant benefits of using Happipad is that rents are generally below those of other rentals, providing an accessible housing option for many. Beyond affordability, Happipad users report meaningful social connections, as the platform encourages hosts and renters to share meals and engage in household activities together.
Cailin Libby, CEO of Happipad, expressed excitement about extending the program across Nova Scotia. The organization aims to offer its services free of charge, breaking down barriers to affordable housing. The initiative seeks to repurpose empty bedrooms and make them available to vetted renters who are looking to call Nova Scotia home.
Nova Scotians are responding positively to the program, including homeowners like Jon Hall from Windsor, who praised the experience of being a host with Happipad. He highlighted the excellent support provided by the platform, including assistance with rent collection and background checks.
Among the groups benefiting from this initiative are students seeking off-campus accommodations. Matthew Doyle, Chair of Students Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of housing in educational access and success. He welcomed the program’s aim to strengthen informational outreach to students in search of housing options in their communities.
VON Canada – Nova Scotia, which provides home-care and community support services, also lauded the home-sharing service. Jeff Densmore, Regional Executive Director, expressed that this program opens up opportunities for staff, making their services available to more people in need of care, especially in areas where accommodation has been scarce.
Quick Facts about the initiative include:
- Happipad, a Canadian non-profit organization, operates in every province with support from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
- The $1.3 million investment from the province is equally shared between Advanced Education, Seniors and Long-Term Care, and Municipal Affairs and Housing.
- Background checks are mandatory for all homeowners and renters, and the Residential Tenancies Act applies to all rentals.
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