Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about co-operative housing and living at Connaught.
General Questions About Connaught Co-op
When was Connaught Housing Co-operative established?
Connaught was established in the early 1980s as part of the Canada Rental Supply Program (CRSP), which ran from 1981 to 1984. Our founding members officially moved in on April 1, 1984, and began paying down the mortgage together.
How many units does Connaught have?
We have 79 residential units offering a mix of family and senior housing with various bedroom sizes.
Where is Connaught located?
We’re located at 527 Commodore Rd, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4G5, in the vibrant False Creek South neighbourhood.
What is the Canada Rental Supply Program (CRSP)?
The CRSP was a federal initiative that ran from 1981 to 1984 and created 24,000 housing units across Canada. Connaught was one of the co-operatives developed through this program as part of the broader wave of co-operative housing development that occurred in Canada from the 1970s through the early 1990s.
Membership & Application
How do I apply for membership?
Applications are accepted during specific intake periods, typically every few years. When applications are open, you must submit a complete application including:
- Completed application form
- Cover letter
- Proof of income
- Demonstrated community involvement and/or volunteerism
Applications must be complete and submitted by the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
What are the current income requirements?
For two-bedroom units, the minimum income requirement is $38,500 annually.
How much is the share purchase?
- Principal member (2-bedroom): $3,000
- Associate member: $10 per person
What is a principal member vs. associate member?
- Principal member: Must be at least 19 years old and can apply to purchase shares in the co-op
- Associate member: Must be at least 19 years old and lives with a principal member on a full-time basis as their principal residence. Associate members purchase one share for $10.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications are reviewed based on:
- Completion of the entire application (including cover letter)
- Meeting minimum income requirements
- Demonstrated community involvement and/or volunteerism
Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Successful applicants are placed on a waiting list pending reference and credit checks.
How long is the waiting list?
We maintain a short finalized waiting list. Historically, our co-op’s turnover rate has been low, so a lengthy wait is very possible.
Who must live in the unit?
Membership is limited to persons who live in the unit on a full-time basis as their principal residence. Only members of Connaught Housing Co-op may live in the co-op.
What is expected of members?
If accepted into membership, you agree to:
- Comply with the co-op’s rules, occupancy agreement, and policies
- Actively and regularly participate in the co-op community
- Live in your unit as your principal residence
Costs & Housing Charges
How much is the monthly housing charge?
The current housing charge is $1,121.00 per month for two-bedroom units. This may increase based on membership voting each year.
How are housing charges determined?
Housing charges are based on the actual costs of operating the co-op, not market rates. Members vote on any changes to housing charges at general meetings.
Can housing charges increase?
Yes, housing charges may increase based on membership voting each year to cover the costs of operating and maintaining the co-op.
Policies
What is the pet policy?
Members are allowed up to a total of two pets:
- Two cats, OR
- Two dogs, OR
- One dog and one cat
Other permissions and restrictions apply as per the Pet Policy.
What is the smoking policy?
The co-op is moving towards officially becoming a non-smoking property. Members must refrain from smoking:
- In the building (including suites)
- In common areas
- On balconies
- On the property
There is a recommended area for smoking across the street.
Is parking available?
Yes, one parking space per household is provided, with more accommodated if space permits.
Is bicycle storage available?
Yes, we have bicycle storage facilities managed by the Bike Room Committee.
Governance & Democracy
How is the co-op governed?
Connaught is democratically governed by its members through:
- An elected Board of Directors (3-7 members serving two-year terms)
- Annual General Meetings
- General meetings (at least two per year)
- Committee participation
What is "one member, one vote"?
Every member has exactly one vote on all co-op matters, regardless of their housing charge or unit size. This ensures democratic control where every voice is equal.
How are directors elected?
Directors are elected at the Annual General Meeting by secret ballot (when there are more candidates than positions). Directors serve two-year terms, with elections staggered to ensure continuity.
When are general meetings held?
The co-op holds:
- One Annual General Meeting each calendar year (within four months of fiscal year end)
- At least one additional general meeting each year
- Special general meetings as needed
What is a quorum for general meetings?
A quorum requires 20% of members entitled to vote to be present in person at the start of the meeting, with at least 3 members present at all times.
Can I vote by proxy?
No, there is no proxy voting at Connaught. Members must be present to vote.
What is an Ordinary Resolution?
An Ordinary Resolution requires a simple majority of votes cast by members entitled to vote.
What is a Special Resolution?
A Special Resolution requires a two-thirds majority of total votes cast by members entitled to vote. Special Resolutions are required for major decisions like amending the co-op’s rules or borrowing against substantial co-op assets.
Membership Rights & Responsibilities
Do I have security of tenure?
Yes, members have long-term housing security and stability as long as they comply with the co-op’s rules, occupancy agreement, and policies.
Can I withdraw from membership?
Yes, members may withdraw by giving at least two full calendar months’ written notice. The co-op may also consent to shorter notice periods.
What happens to my share purchase when I leave?
Subject to any outstanding debts to the co-op, you’re entitled to a refund of the amount you paid for shares. The Directors may withhold the refund until a new member has been admitted.
What committees can I join?
Active committees include:
- Board of Directors
- Landscape Committee
- Maintenance Committee
- Newsletter Committee
- Social Committee
- Recycling Committee
- Membership Committee
- Orientation Committee
- Welcoming Committee
- Aging in Place Committee
- Block Watch Committee
- Parking Committee
- Bike Room Committee
Committee participation is a cornerstone of co-op living and a great way to meet neighbours while contributing to the community.
Building & Amenities
What amenities does Connaught offer?
- Courtyard
- Community Room (including
- Wednesday games nights)
- Garden areas
- Children’s play area
- Laundry facilities (8am-10pm)
- Bicycle storage
- Parking
Are there AEDs in the building?
Yes, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are wall-mounted in cabinets on each floor across from the elevators for emergency cardiac situations.
Community Life
What kind of community events happen at Connaught?
Regular events include:
- Halloween parties and pumpkin carving contests
- Holiday celebrations
- Wednesday games nights in the Common Room (6pm)
- Landscape committee volunteer events
- Senior’s holiday gift exchanges
How does the newsletter work?
The Newsletter Committee produces the regular “Connaught Connect” newsletter sharing stories, updates, member profiles, and community information. There’s a suggestion box in the common room for contributions.
What is Co-operative Housing?
How is co-op housing different from renting?
In a co-op, you’re a member-owner, not a tenant. You have:
- Democratic control (one member, one vote)
- Long-term housing security
- The ability to participate in decision-making
- Housing charges based on cost, not market rates
- Ownership and control by members, not profit-seeking landlords
Is co-op housing the same as social housing?
No. While co-op housing is affordable and non-profit, it’s different from social housing. Co-ops are owned and democratically controlled by members who live in the units. Members must meet income requirements and purchase shares.
What is the difference between co-op housing and condos?
In a condo, you own your individual unit. In a co-op, members collectively own the entire property through the cooperative association. You purchase shares in the co-op, not the unit itself.
Contact & More Information
How can I learn more about applying?
Check our website for current application status and detailed information about the application process. When applications are open, information will be posted with specific deadlines and requirements.
Where can I find the co-op's rules and policies?
Current members can access bylaws, policies, meeting minutes, and financial reports through the Members Only area of the website.
Still Have Questions?
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our office staff and board members are happy to help answer any questions about co-op housing.
Office Phone
(604) 874-7717
info@connaughtcoop.ca
Quick Facts
Established
1982
Total Units
52
Members
~140
Address
527 Commodore Rd
Housing Charges
$800-$1,400