Responses to Rental Inquiries in Canada: Does the Profile Matter?

PDF - Report

Discrimination in the rental housing market is a pressing issue that affects vulnerable groups across Canada.

This report presents the findings of an experiment conducted by CMHC, which aimed to examine disparities in rental inquiry responses across different identity groups in 8 major Canadian cities. The experiment focused on four vulnerable groups (Indigenous, Black, Asian, and LGBTQ+) and compared their experiences with White renters.

Key highlights

CMHC's experiment revealed significant discrimination in landlord responses based on renters' profiles, highlighting the existence of barriers for vulnerable groups.
2SLGBTQI+ renters faced obstacles in some cities, while responses to other groups varied across different cities, indicating a complex nature of housing discrimination.
Despite the discrimination, it is worth noting that most landlord responses were positive, suggesting a willingness to engage and highlighting the need for a more inclusive rental landscape.