Frequently asked questions
What is independent senior living?
Independent senior living is designed for older adults who can manage their daily activities on their own while enjoying access to support services like housekeeping, meals and social events.
To be considered independent, a resident must be able to:
- Manage personal care (such as bathing, dressing and hygiene)
- Move around safely without regular assistance.
- Prepare light meals or eat independently.
- Handle basic household tasks.
- Make informed decisions about their health and safety
- Residents and/or their families are welcome to arrange home support services as needed.
What is included in my rent?
Your rent includes heating (fortis), evening meal service, on-site laundry facilities, parking as well as access to a lounge that has some exercise equipment and a small library.
What is NOT included in my rent?
Please note that the cost of BC Hydro (electricity), internet, phone, and cable services is not included in your monthly rent. These utilities must be arranged and paid for separately by the tenant or their family. Residents are responsible for setting up these services directly with the appropriate providers to ensure timely activation and continued access.
Do I need renters’ insurance?
Yes, renters’ insurance is required. It provides important protection for your personal belongings in case of events such as fire, theft, or water damage. While the building itself is insured, this does not cover your individual possessions or personal liability. Having renters’ insurance ensures you are financially protected and gives you peace of mind in your home.
What is included in subsidized units?
Your rent includes heating (Fortis), evening meal service, access to on-site laundry facilities, and parking. In addition, residents on subsidy receive a weekly one-hour housekeeping service and have the option of receiving Lifeline Personal Emergency Response Service for added safety and peace of mind for residents and their families.
What are the units like?
Lilac Terrace offers three styles of units: bachelor, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites. Each unit includes a full-sized kitchen and bathroom, along with storage space. Please note that all units are subject to availability, and we cannot guarantee the availability of a specific unit type.
How long is the waitlist?
We cannot guarantee a specific wait time for unit availability, as it varies from month to month depending on if and when units become available. The length of the waitlist can change frequently based on current demand and turnover.
What if a unit becomes available and I am not ready to move?
If a unit becomes available and you're not ready to move in, that's absolutely fine. We will simply offer the unit to the next person on the waitlist. You will remain at the top of the list, and we’ll contact you again when the next suitable unit becomes available.
Can I opt out of the meal program?
Lilac Terrace offers an evening dinner service at 5:00pm in our dining room that is part of a program provided by BC Housing. This service is mandatory and is included in the overall cost of rent. As such, residents are automatically enrolled and cannot opt out of the program.
Does Lilac Terrace provide housekeeping?
Yes, Lilac Terrace provides housekeeping services, which is included in the rental price for our subsidized units through a program offered by BC Housing. For residents in our market value units, housekeeping services are still available for a nominal fee. This allows all tenants the option to access support.
Does Lilac Terrace provide parking?
Yes! Lilac Terrace offers convenient uncovered parking spaces for residents. In addition, plug-in spots for vehicles are available, though they are subject to availability.
Does Lilac Terrace have laundry?
Yes, Lilac Terrace offers shared on-site laundry facilities, free of charge, to all residents. Residents are required to schedule their laundry times with management and adhere to their assigned slots to maintain efficiency and fairness for everyone.
What is lifeline medical alert?
Lifeline Medical Alert is designed to provide quick access to help in an emergency, especially for older adults or anyone at risk of falling. It’s extremely user-friendly — you simply wear a pendant around your neck, and in the event of a fall, pressing the button immediately connects you to emergency services and notifies your designated emergency contact. This service is provided free of charge to residents in our subsidized units, with a small fee applied for those in market value units.