Housing in Esquimalt


Housing Affordability

The Department of National Defence (DND) addresses housing affordability issues through the pay and benefits package.  This approach is complemented by the Post Living Differential Allowance, which compensates members who are posted to locations with a higher cost of living such as Esquimalt.  All members posted to these areas receive the allowance, whether they choose to live in DND housing or not.

Military Housing

The regulatory basis for setting DND housing unit rent specifies that rents paid by occupants of government housing should be fair, equitable, and comparable to those paid for a dwelling of similar size and condition in the surrounding market.  This level playing field ensures that rents paid by the 16% of CAF personnel who chose to live in DND housing units are comparable to the rents paid by the 84% of CAF personnel who live in civilian housing units.

Residential Housing Units (formerly known as Permanent Married Quarters, PMQ's)

The Canadian Forces Housing Agency (CFHA) gives you the option of residing in Military Residential Housing Units. The number of units available is limited to 709 within a 25 km radius of CFB Esquimalt. Eligibility is based on a priority system and a first-come, first-served basis. If no Residential Housing Units are available, the CAF member may have their names placed on an active wait list 60 days prior to their change-of-strength date. It is recommended that you apply as soon as possible. Contact CFHA directly by either filling out an application in person at the housing management  office located in Naden or online. The phone number for CFHA is 250-363-4994. 

Base Accommodations (Single Quarters)

Single Quarters are also offered at CFB Esquimalt. For more information, please contact the Base accommodations at 250-363-1900 ext. 60268

  • CFB Esquimalt Wardroom (Dockyard): Available to Petty Officer Second Class and above
  • Bernay’s Block (Naden): Available to Master Sailor and below
  • Nelles Block (Naden): Available to Master Sailor and below
  • WP 1091 (Rainbow)
  • WP 1092 (Oakville)
  • WP 1093 (Ojibwa): Available to transient members of all ranks
  • WP 1372 (Kingsmill): Available to junior officers on course at NOTC Venture