BGRS Frequently Asked Questions: – Briefing Document
This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Relocation Program, based on information provided by BGRS.
When can BGRS provide services?
BGRS can provide services once the CAF member has received a posting/release message, the CAF has authorized the move, the CAF member has created an account with BGRS, and the Preliminary Relocation Assessment (PRA) has been completed.
If a CAF member has difficulty registering or does not have internet access, BGRS will provide services via telephone or email.
Should I keep receipts for every expense I incur?
CAF members must keep receipts for all expenses they expect to claim during their relocation, unless the CAF Relocation Directive states that receipts are unnecessary.
Receipts can be uploaded to the member’s electronic file at any time by scanning or taking a picture.
Receipts are not required for daily allowances such as meals and incidentals.
CAF members must keep original receipts for the period prescribed by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Why is a property appraisal required?
For homeowners, a property appraisal is required to help establish market value, facilitate disposal, establish a home value for funding purposes, and build a relocation budget.
The appraisal helps determine if a property is actively marketed, which means the listing price does not exceed the appraised value.
When multiple appraisals are obtained, funding is calculated using an average of the appraised values.
How do I know if I am eligible for a House Hunting Trip (HHT) or Destination Inspection Trip (DIT)?
A CAF member may be entitled to a HHT if they have not secured accommodation at the new place of duty.
A CAF member may be entitled to a DIT if they have already secured accommodation or officially contracted for the construction of a replacement residence.
CAF members are entitled to either a HHT or DIT, but not both.
The trip should be taken after the official notification of posting and normally before the Change of Strength (COS) date.
A completed HHT/DIT Application Form, available on bgrsguide.bgrs.ca, must be uploaded to authenticate approval from the CAF to conduct the trip.
Where do I find a list of Third Party Service Providers (TPSPs) if I have not yet received my posting message?
The list of participating TPSPs and their Service Level Agreements are only available on bgrsguide.bgrs.ca.
CAF members need an active file and a completed PRA to access the list.
Can I use my mother-in-law’s services for my relocation, if she is a realtor?
All Third Party Service Providers (TPSPs) must be at arm’s length.
An arm’s length transaction is one between non-related parties as defined by the CRA.
Related individuals include direct-line descendants, spouses, common-law partners, siblings, in-laws, and non-immediate family members.
Am I entitled to purchase or sell prior to my posting message being received?
A CAF member may claim benefits if the closing date of a residence sold or purchased is no more than one year before or two years after the Change of Strength (COS) date or the date of the shipment of Household Goods and Effects (HG&E), whichever is later.
Can I book my own flight?
Commercial travel bookings are made by Global Business Travel (GBT), unless local authority has certified it was impossible to do so.
All commercial travel bookings must be requested online via the Member Secure Website (MSW).
Can I choose my own movers instead of having it booked through the Furniture & Effects Department?
The shipment and storage of HG&E is governed by the Household Goods and Removal Services (HGRS) contract.
The CAF arranges and pays for the cost of packing, loading, insuring, shipping, storage, unloading, and unpacking of authorized HG&E.
CAF members must complete the Movement of Household Goods form with BGRS’s assistance, upload the completed form to the MSW, and submit it to the Base Traffic/Furniture and Effects Agent.