Housing Resource Centre

The Housing Resource Centre (HRC) is your go-to student support service for all things off-campus housing. Whether you’re renting for the first time or facing issues with your landlord, the HRC provides accessible, non-legal assistance to help you understand your rights, navigate the rental process, and feel more confident in your housing situation.

Located in the JDUC, the HRC is a confidential, peer-led space where students can receive guidance, download resources, and access community-based programming throughout the year.

Services

Click here to submit a request

Housing Support Appointments

Get one-on-one help with lease reviews, maintenance disputes, landlord communication, and more.

Lease Education and Document Templates

We provide downloadable tools like lease checklists, sample communication letters, and red flag guides to help you navigate the rental process

Municipal Bylaw Education

Learn about property standards, noise regulations, and your responsibilities as a tenant under Kingston’s municipal bylaws.

Referrals and Navigation Support

We’ll connect you to local legal clinics, municipal housing support, or advocacy organizations if your needs go beyond our scope.

Break Period Safety Support

ur Winter and Reading Week House Checkers Program helps protect your space while you’re away by flagging urgent maintenance and safety issues.

Programming

Housing Rights Workshop Series

These interactive workshops offer students a deep dive into tenant protections, dispute resolution strategies, and housing law basics.

Know Your Neighbours Campaign

A community-building initiative that encourages relationship-building between students and long-term Kingston residents through resource kits, outreach, and events.

Housing Resource Fair

A termly event that brings together students, housing providers, City of Kingston reps, and campus partners to share tools, listings, and off-campus support.

Tabling & Outreach Campaigns

You’ll find us across campus with tenant education materials, template letters, and safety tips—especially during key housing decision periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you help me understand or review my lease?

Yes! During your peer support appointment or drop-in, we’ll walk through your lease with you and identify clauses or concerns to look out for.

What should I do if my landlord won’t respond to a maintenance issue?

We can help you write a formal request and explain your options under the Residential Tenancies Act. If needed, we’ll refer you to a legal clinic.

Is the HRC service confidential?

Yes. All appointments, drop-ins and consultations are peer-led, private, and student-centered.

What is the House Checkers Program and how do I sign up?

Submit your address through our online form before the Winter or Reading Break. Our trained staff will check for visible issues like broken windows or snow buildup and notify you if something is wrong. They are also to pick up mail.

Can I access the HRC even if I’m not in crisis?

Definitely. We’re here to support you through planning, questions, and prevention—not just emergencies.

Do you offer support for roommate conflicts or subletting?

While we don’t mediate disputes, we can guide you on how to handle conflicts and ensure your conflict and/or subletting process follows proper legal procedures.

Can I access support if I’m dealing with housing insecurity?

Yes. We can help assess your options and connect you with on- and off-campus support services.

Is there support during the summer or after hours?

We only operate during the school year.

Do you help students find available rentals?

We don’t act as a listing service, but we can help and suggest where to search, how to identify scams, and what to prioritize in your search.

How do I book an appointment or attend a workshop?

Use the booking link on this page or visit the AMS Instagram for upcoming workshop dates and drop-in hours.

Contact Information

Housing Resource Centre team!

Saif Douglas (he/him)

Housing Resource Manager

The Housing Resource Manager oversees all operations of the HRC, from one-on-one support appointments to long-term strategic planning. They supervise the officer team, manage the centre’s programs and resources, and act as the primary liaison to AMS leadership and community partners. If you have questions about HRC services or want to collaborate on housing initiatives, they’re your first point of contact.

Hana Baung (she/her)

HRC Officer

HRC Officers provide peer-to-peer housing support through appointments and email consultations. They specialize in issues like lease reviews, maintenance disputes, and tenant rights, and help keep the centre’s resources up to date. Whether you’re facing a landlord issue or just want a second set of eyes on your lease, they’re here to help.

Nakul Bhalla (he/him)

HRC Officer

Richard Violo (he/him)

HRC Holiday House Checker

The HRC Marketing Coordinator ensures students know how to access the centre’s services and resources. They design educational graphics, manage outreach campaigns, and promote events like workshops and housing fairs. Their work helps make housing information clear, accessible, and student-friendly.