Housing NWT launches Technical Team Pilot to support preventative maintenance activities

Housing NWT is launching a new Technical Team Pilot project in the Beaufort Delta, Sahtu, and Nahendeh districts to support preventative maintenance activities and improve the delivery of repairs.

The pilot project will address ongoing challenges in completing maintenance and repair work in smaller and more remote communities, where access to skilled trades services can be limited, contributing to repair delays and backlogs.

Based in Inuvik, Norman Wells, and Fort Simpson, the Technical Teams will focus on preventative maintenance and repair work identified in collaboration with Local Housing Organizations (LHOs). The Technical Teams will provide services including carpentry, plumbing, heating and other specialized maintenance activities as required. They will also provide technical assessments, troubleshooting, and support to LHOs in planning and completing preventative maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the teams will add more regional capacity to help Housing NWT complete repairs faster, reduce backlogs, keep homes in good condition longer, and better track maintenance work.

Maintaining existing housing units is essential to preserving the long-term availability and sustainability of housing across the Northwest Territories. The Technical Teams will be supported with the training, tools, equipment, and materials needed to complete repairs efficiently and effectively.

The pilot project will be evaluated over a two-year period based on its ability to improve the cost-effectiveness of maintenance work, reduce maintenance backlogs, shorten repair turnaround times, and decrease the number of vacant housing units and length of time they are unoccupied.

Staffing activities are expected to begin shortly, with operational launch anticipated in Winter 2027.

This pilot project responds to concerns raised by residents, LHOs and auditors about housing maintenance and housing conditions, particularly in smaller and more remote communities. It will strengthen maintenance capacity, improve oversight of repair work, and support better housing outcomes for residents.