Innovation in Climate-Resilient Housing Recognized with Gold Roof Award

Durham homeowners are using Canada’s first Weather-Ready Home Assessment Protocol to protect their homes from extreme weather. Windfall Ecology Centre and Durham Region developed the protocol using a multi-hazard approach for residential assessments. It combines best practices for science sectors — flood, heat and wind — into a simple, actionable process. Homeowners can apply this guidance immediately to improve their home’s resilience and safety.

Recognized with the Gold Roof Award for Knowledge to Action, it sets a new standard for climate-resilient housing in Canada.

Project scope and expected outcomes

A first-of-its-kind tool in Canada

The Weather-Ready Home Assessment Protocol innovates climate-resilient housing and helps homeowners strengthen multi-hazard resilience across Canada. The Protocol evaluates Part 9 residential buildings under the National Building Code of Canada. This includes:

• detached and attached homes
• townhomes
• mobile homes on permanent foundations
• low-rise multi-unit buildings under four storeys

This approach allows a wide range of homeowners to assess and improve their property resilience.

Rigorous research and collaboration

Windfall Ecology Centre and Durham Region developed the Protocol in 2025 under the Durham Greener Homes program. A demanding research and engagement process guided its design, using technical expertise and on-the-ground insights. This work included:

• reviewing regional climate trends and extreme weather impacts
• analyzing existing housing stock and retrofit strategies
• considering demographics and socio-economic conditions

Practical guidance for homeowners

The Protocol provides clear, actionable recommendations to address Durham’s key climate hazards, including:

• heavy rainfall and flooding
• extreme heat events
• extreme cold and winter storms
• high winds and severe storms

Homeowners receive a structured evaluation of property vulnerabilities, allowing them to make targeted improvements that enhance safety, comfort and durability.

Integration with national standards and training

The Protocol complements energy efficiency standards such as the NRCan EnerGuide Rating System and trains Weather-Ready Advisors to provide qualified guidance to residents on climate resilient housing. It helps communities actively strengthen their climate resilience while ensuring homeowners act on expert recommendations.

Proven results and recognition

The Protocol’s innovative approach earned the Gold Roof Award for Knowledge to Action — a $12,500 grant recognizing research with real-world housing impact. This recognition highlights the initiative’s ability to translate research into practical actions that improve housing safety and resilience. It also delivers measurable benefits to both the housing sector and the academic community.

By bridging the gap between knowledge and action, the Weather-Ready Home Assessment Protocol empowers Durham residents to proactively protect their homes and communities from extreme weather.