Transferring administrative control of on-reserve housing from the federal government to a First Nations Authority: an assessment of opportunities and challenges in BC

Under Canada's National Housing Strategy Act, adequate housing is legislated as a "fundamental human right." Yet, the Auditor General's 2024 report states many homes on First Nation's reserves are unsafe or in poor condition, with 30% needing major repairs or replacement in BC. It is apparent that the status quo administrative oversight and delivery of on-reserve housing in BC has led to inefficient, inadequate and inequitable outcomes. Articles 21 and 23 of BC's DRIPA affirm Indigenous Peoples' right to develop their own housing. Furthermore, The Department of Indigenous Services Act mandates transferring administrative control of on-reserve housing from ISC and CMHC to a First Nations Authority. This paper analyzes the challenges and opportunities of such a transfer in BC using mixed qualitative research methods, including government and academic document reviews, a jurisdictional scan and expert interviews. It concludes by recommending the transfer of control and outlining key implementation considerations.