Released on November 13, 2026
The latest data from Statistics Canada reveals that the total value of building permits issued in Canada fell by $552.8 million, or 4.1%, from August to $12.9 billion in September. Building permits are a leading indicator of construction activity and signal demand for specific building types. Housing contributed the most to the decline. Multi-unit permits dropped the most, falling by $529.3 million. Its decline was offset by an increase in single-detached homes, which grew by $53.6 million. The overall decline in housing construction intent creates additional challenges for provinces and territories in meeting their housing goals.
Institutional buildings such as those related to health and welfare, education or public administration, and buildings used for religious services fell by $77.1 million in September, the most among non-residential permits. Increases in the value of commercial and industrial building permits offset the decline. Building permit values declined in 10 of Canada’s 13 provinces and territories. Ontario, Nova Scotia, and the Northwest Territories all posted increases of 6.6%, 23.8%, and 30.7%, respectively.
Last Updated: October 30, 2026
About Source(s)
Source: Statistics Canada is Canada's national statistical agency.
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