Canada’s dream of alleviating its crippling housing shortage through a construction surge may be grounded by a lack of essential personnel, according to a leading real estate firm. CBRE, a global giant in the industry, warns of a critical shortage of plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and other skilled tradespeople to meet the current building demands. This dearth of qualified workers casts a long shadow over the country’s housing crisis, a central issue leading up to the 2025 general election.
Soaring housing prices and a lack of available dwellings are putting immense strain on Canadians, particularly those hoping to buy their first home. The crux of the problem lies in the sheer volume of new construction required. A 2022 study by Canada’s national housing agency estimated a staggering need for 3.5 million additional homes. Achieving this target would necessitate more than doubling the current pace of construction, an unrealistic goal without a significant influx of skilled tradespeople.
This situation threatens long-term damage to Canada’s social fabric. The lack of affordable housing options pushes homeownership out of reach for many Canadians, potentially widening the gap between rich and poor.
