A Housing NWT pilot project in Inuvik and Fort Resolution could help public housing clients who regularly pay rent on time build a positive credit score.
The program was launched in 2023 to help remove barriers for people who want to access other rentals in the future, and to help facilitate large purchases that require a positive credit rating.
It uses FrontLobby, a third-party service that shares a record of on-time rent payments with credit scoring agency Equifax and the Landlord Credit Bureau. On-time payments are then reflected on a client’s credit report and tenant record – and only positive credits are disclosed.
However, two years have passed and Housing NWT, through a spokesperson, told Cabin Radio nobody has yet signed up for the program.
“We’re monitoring uptake and feedback to determine whether this kind of program is a good fit for our tenants,” said a spokesperson by email.
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According to Housing NWT’s update on its renewal strategy published last week, the pilot program is scheduled for review before the end of 2025.
“As part of the renewal strategy, we’ve been trying new approaches and testing different ideas to improve housing programs,” the spokesperson said.
“Some pilots have worked well and others haven’t gained traction. We see value in both outcomes, because they help us learn what works for our tenants and what doesn’t.”
Public housing tenants in Inuvik and Fort Resolution who are interested in the program can get in touch with their local housing organization. Staff can then assist with the sign-up process.
