CAF Relocation Entitlements: SIRVA, BGRS, and How Funding Works

Clear explanations of Core vs Custom, what's commonly covered, and how to avoid expensive surprises.

Relocation benefits can feel like a second job: the rules are detailed, the timelines are real, and one missed step can turn into an out-of-pocket cost. This page gives you a plain-language overview, plus the official links you should rely on.

I'm Johnny Dulong, a Halifax Realtor with 24 years of local experience. I'm not the CRSP, and I can't approve your benefits, but I can help you plan your housing decisions in a way that fits your entitlement framework and avoids common process mistakes.

Last updated: April 2, 2026

CAF Relocation Entitlements: SIRVA, BGRS, and How Funding Works

Relocation benefits can feel like a second job. The rules are detailed, the timelines matter, and one missed step can turn into an out-of-pocket cost. This page gives you a plain-language overview and links to the official sources you should rely on.

I am Johnny Dulong, a Halifax Realtor with 24 years of local experience. I am not the CRSP and I cannot approve your benefits, but I can help you plan your housing decisions in a way that fits your entitlement framework and avoids common mistakes.

Which Program Applies to Your File?

As of January 6, 2026, SIRVA is the Crown-contracted Relocation Service Provider (CRSP) for CAF members whose relocation files were authorized on or after that date. Files authorized before January 6, 2026, continue to be administered through BGRS. The IRP framework and your entitlements are the same under both programs — the difference is which portal and service team manages your file.

If you are unsure which applies to you, check your posting message or contact your unit orderly room. Official reference: canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/relocation-directive.html

Core vs. Custom Funding: Understanding Your Budget

Your IRP relocation benefits are generally divided into funding categories:

Core Entitlements cover essential relocation expenses such as real estate commissions for the sale of your current home, legal fees for your purchase or sale, a home inspection, and moving costs. These are tied to the program's standard limits.

Your Personalized City Fund (PCF) provides additional flexibility for costs that vary by destination city and personal circumstances. The PCF helps offset costs specific to the Halifax market, such as bridge financing if your purchase and sale dates do not align.

What the IRP Typically Does Not Cover: costs above program limits, upgrades, cosmetic repairs to the home you are selling, personal property not related to the move, and expenses incurred outside of your authorized relocation period. Always confirm coverage with your CRSP file manager before committing to any expense.

Practical Tips for Your Relocation File

Register on the portal early. Whether your file is in SIRVA or BGRS, log in as soon as your posting message arrives. Delays in registration can compress your timelines.

Document everything. Keep receipts, contracts, and communication records organized from day one.

Talk to your Realtor before making housing decisions. Real estate fee coverage, HHT timelines, and purchase conditions all have specific rules under the IRP. A Realtor who knows the program can help you avoid surprises.

Ask your file manager what is covered before you commit. The portal has a document called your “personalized entitlements.” Read it.

Ready to Talk Halifax Real Estate?

I am registered as an IRP service provider and have been working with posting members for over two decades. Call or email to start your housing plan.

Phone: 902-209-4761
Email: johndulong@exitmetro.ca
Website: SellHalifaxRealEstate.com