There are too many important details missing in this scenario and it looks like the HR person's comment has had a big chunk edited out. Grounds keepers, farm hands, and the like are often provided housing and this is usually provided free or at a nominal cost. The employment contract - either in writing or implied, usually states as long as you work here, you can live here. Once your employment ends, so does the housing. It is gracious for the employer to provide a transition period or a payment to help them with a move. I have seen up to 6 weeks plus a portion of moving expenses. Then there is the matter of severance. However , if this individual is not a permanent full time employee and he had a sweet deal with the employer to be able to cycle on and off employment insurance , he should carefully check with a lawyer in his provincial jurisdiction as he might not qualify. Having said that, there are common law principles and good business practices. In the meantime, find a new job.