Relocation

Frequently Asked Questions

• When can SIRVA provide services?
  SIRVA is authorized to provide services once all of the following steps have been completed:  

  • The CAF Member has received a posting/release message; and
  • The CAF has provided SIRVA with the authorization for the move; and  
  • The CAF Member has created an account with SIRVA – (the posting message includes instructions on how to complete this step); and  
  • The CAF Member has completed the Preliminary Relocation Assessment
• Why is a property appraisal required?

  For homeowners, a property appraisal is required (as per article 8.2.04) to:  

  • Help establish market value; Facilitate disposal;  
  • Establish a home value for funding purposes; and  
  • Build a relocation budget  
  • Determine eligibility as Actively Marketed  
  • Definition: The principal residence listing price does not exceed the appraised value established in accordance with article 8.2.04 of the Canadian Forces Integrated Relocation Program  

  When multiple appraisals are obtained, the funding is calculated using an average of the appraised values (as per article 8.2.04)

• How do I know if I am eligible for a House Hunting Trip (HHT) or Destination Inspection Trip (DIT)?  (as per Chapter 4 of the Relocation Directive)
  • CAF Member may be entitled to a HHT when they have not secured accommodation at the new place of duty  
  • A CAF Member may be entitled to a DIT when they have already secured accommodation, or officially contracted for the construction of a replacement residence  
  • CAF Members are entitled to either a HHT or DIT, not both  
  • The trip is to be taken after the official notification of posting and normally before the Change of Service (COS) date (as per article 4.1.01)  
  • The HHT/DIT Application Form (available on bgrsguide.bgrs.ca) is to be completed, signed, and uploaded to bgrsguide.bgrs.ca to authenticate approval from the CAF to conduct the trip
• Where do I find a list of Third Party Service Providers (TPSPs), if I have not yet received my posting message?
  • The list of participating TPSPs and their Service Level Agreements are only available from SIRVA.  
  • A CAF Member needs an active file, where they have completed the Preliminary Relocation Assessment (PRA), in order to access it.
• My family member is a realtor. Can I use their services for my relocation?
  • All Third Party Service Providers (TPSPs) must be at arm’s length  
  • An arm’s length transaction is one that is consummated between two or more non-related parties as per Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) interpretation  
  • Related individuals include:  
    • Direct-line descendants, as well as spouse or common law partners, brothers, sisters, and in-laws; and non-immediate family members such as cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces  
    • Refer to Relocation Directive section 1.4 and articles 2.7.01 and 8.1.05 for additional information
• Am I entitled to purchase or sell prior to my posting message being received?

  A CAF Member may claim benefits provided that the closing date of residence sold or purchased is no more than one year before or two years after the:  

  • Change of strength (COS) date; or  
  • The date of the shipment of Household Goods &Effects to the new place of duty; whichever is later  

  Refer to Relocation Directive 8.1.04 for additional information

• Can I book my own flight?
  No. SIRVA facilitates commercial travel bookings through the Government Travel Provider once you submit your trip request on the Member Secure Website.
• Do I need to keep receipts?
  • Unless otherwise specified in the CAFRD, receipts are required for reimbursement of relocation expenses.
  • Receipts can be uploaded to the SIRVA Member Secure Website when submitting an expense claim.
• How do I begin my child care search?

  Check out Finding Quality Child Care - A Guide for Parents in Canada.

  This website provides information for parents in Canada looking for quality child care that’s affordable and meets the needs of their families.