Ontario Renovation Rebates You're Probably Missing (2026)

Renovating in Ontario? You could be leaving thousands — or even tens of thousands — of dollars on the table. Between federal programs, provincial incentives, utility rebates, and municipal grants, Ontario homeowners can access up to $80,000+ in renovation rebates and forgivable loans.

The problem: most homeowners do not know these programs exist, miss application deadlines, or fail to meet eligibility requirements.

This guide covers every major renovation rebate available in Ontario in 2026, explains eligibility requirements, details how to stack multiple programs, and provides a step-by-step application checklist.

Major Renovation Rebates & Grants in Ontario (2026)

Here are the top programs available to Ontario homeowners:

Program	Maximum Rebate	Eligible Projects	Application Deadline
CMHC Secondary Suite Loan	$80,000 (forgivable)	Adding a basement apartment or secondary suite	Ongoing (first-come)
Canada Greener Homes Grant	Up to $5,600	Energy efficiency upgrades (insulation, windows, heat pumps)	December 2026 (or until funds depleted)
Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate+	Up to $10,000	Insulation, air sealing, smart thermostats, heat pumps	Ongoing
CMHC Green Home	Up to $40,000 (low-interest loan)	Energy-efficient renovations and accessibility upgrades	Ongoing
Ontario Renovates (Seniors/Accessibility)	Up to $10,000	Accessibility modifications for seniors or disabled homeowners	Varies by municipality
Toronto Green Standard (TGS) Incentives	Varies	Energy-efficient renovations in Toronto	Ongoing
HST New Housing Rebate	Up to $30,000	Substantial renovations that create "new housing" (rare)	Within 2 years of completion

**Total potential rebates:** $80,000+ if you stack multiple programs (e.g., CMHC Secondary Suite Loan + Greener Homes Grant + Enbridge Rebate)

1. CMHC Secondary Suite Loan: Up to $80,000 Forgivable

**What it is:** A forgivable loan from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to help homeowners create legal secondary suites (basement apartments, laneway houses, garage conversions).

**Maximum amount:** $80,000 (forgivable over 10 years if you keep the suite rental-ready)

Eligibility:

You must own and occupy the home as your primary residence

The secondary suite must meet local zoning and building code requirements

The suite must be rental-ready (does not have to be rented, just rentable)

You must have sufficient income and credit to qualify for the loan

Available in select municipalities across Canada (most Ontario cities qualify)

What projects qualify:

Creating a legal basement apartment (separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom)

Converting a garage or detached structure into a rental suite

Building a laneway house or garden suite

Adding a second floor suite to an existing home

Typical costs covered:

Foundation work and underpinning (if needed for basement suite)

Framing, drywall, and finishing

Kitchen and bathroom installation

Separate entrance construction

Electrical and plumbing (including separate metering if required)

Permits and inspections

How the loan works:

You apply through a participating lender (major banks, credit unions)

Loan is added to your existing mortgage or issued as a separate line of credit

Interest rate is typically prime + 0-2% (currently 6-8%)

**Forgivable:** If you keep the suite rental-ready for 10 years, the entire loan is forgiven

If you sell the home or remove the suite before 10 years, you must repay the prorated balance

Application process:

Check if your municipality allows secondary suites (zoning)

Get quotes from contractors for the renovation

Contact a participating lender (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, Meridian Credit Union, etc.)

Apply for the CMHC Secondary Suite Loan

If approved, complete the renovation

Provide proof of completion (final inspection, occupancy permit)

Loan is forgiven incrementally over 10 years

**Our take:** This is the single biggest renovation rebate available in Ontario. If you are planning a basement apartment, this program can cover 60-100% of your costs. The catch: you must keep the suite rental-ready for 10 years. If you plan to stay in your home long-term, this is a no-brainer.

**More details:** Read our full guide at [CMHC Secondary Suite Loan Guide](/blog/cmhc-secondary-suite-loan-ontario-guide)

2. Canada Greener Homes Grant: Up to $5,600

**What it is:** A federal grant program that rebates homeowners for energy-efficient upgrades.

**Maximum amount:** $5,600 ($5,000 for upgrades + $600 for pre- and post-upgrade energy audits)

Eligibility:

You must own the home (primary or secondary residence)

Home must have been built and occupied before January 1, 2024

You must complete a pre-upgrade EnerGuide home energy evaluation

You must complete eligible upgrades within 18 months of the pre-evaluation

You must complete a post-upgrade EnerGuide evaluation to verify improvements

What projects qualify:

Upgrade Type	Maximum Rebate
Home insulation (attic, walls, basement, crawlspace)	Up to $5,000
Air sealing	Up to $1,000
Windows and doors (Energy Star certified)	Up to $5,000 (combined with insulation)
Heat pumps (air-source or ground-source)	Up to $5,000
Solar panels	Up to $5,000
Water heaters (heat pump or solar)	Up to $1,000
EnerGuide evaluations (pre and post)	$600 (combined)

Example rebate scenario:

Attic insulation upgrade (R-30 to R-60): $1,200

Basement insulation (R-0 to R-22): $2,000

Air sealing: $800

EnerGuide evaluations: $600

**Total rebate: $4,600**

Application process:

Find a certified EnerGuide energy advisor

Book and complete pre-upgrade EnerGuide evaluation ($300-$600 cost, reimbursed)

Receive your evaluation report with recommended upgrades

Apply for the Greener Homes Grant online

Complete eligible upgrades within 18 months (save all receipts)

Book post-upgrade EnerGuide evaluation to verify improvements

Submit final application with receipts and post-evaluation report

Receive rebate payment (typically 6-12 weeks)

**Stacking with other programs:** You can combine Greener Homes Grant with Enbridge rebates and CMHC Green Home loans (see below).

**Deadline:** December 31, 2026, or until funds are depleted (program is very popular — apply early)

**Our take:** If you are planning insulation, window, or heat pump upgrades, this is free money. The EnerGuide evaluations cost $600-$1,200 total, but you get that back in the rebate. The key is planning your upgrades to maximize the rebate (e.g., combining attic and basement insulation in one project).

3. Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate+: Up to $10,000

**What it is:** A rebate program from Enbridge Gas for Ontario homeowners who upgrade to energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.

**Maximum amount:** Up to $10,000 depending on upgrades

Eligibility:

Home must be heated by natural gas (Enbridge customer)

Upgrades must be completed by licensed contractors

Some upgrades require pre-approval

What projects qualify:

Upgrade Type	Rebate Amount
Air-source heat pump	Up to $6,500
Ground-source (geothermal) heat pump	Up to $6,500
High-efficiency furnace (95+ AFUE)	$250
High-efficiency boiler (90+ AFUE)	$250
Programmable or smart thermostat	$100
Insulation (attic, walls, basement)	Up to $2,400
Air sealing	Up to $1,000
Drain water heat recovery system	$200
High-efficiency water heater	$400

Example rebate scenario:

Air-source heat pump installation: $6,500

Attic insulation upgrade: $1,200

Smart thermostat: $100

**Total rebate: $7,800**

Application process:

Check eligible upgrades on Enbridge website

Get quotes from licensed contractors

Apply for rebate online (some upgrades require pre-approval)

Complete upgrades

Submit proof of installation (receipts, contractor invoice, product details)

Receive rebate (typically 4-8 weeks)

**Stacking:** You can combine Enbridge rebates with Canada Greener Homes Grant. For example, a heat pump might get you $6,500 from Enbridge + $5,000 from Greener Homes = $11,500 total rebates.

**Our take:** Enbridge rebates are very generous, especially for heat pumps. If you are replacing an old furnace or adding AC, a heat pump qualifies for both heating and cooling rebates. Combined with federal grants, you can offset 40-60% of the installation cost.

4. CMHC Green Home: Up to $40,000 Low-Interest Loan

**What it is:** A low-interest loan from CMHC for energy-efficient renovations and accessibility upgrades.

**Maximum amount:** $40,000 added to your mortgage at a reduced interest rate

Eligibility:

Home must be your primary residence

You must have an existing CMHC-insured mortgage, or be purchasing a home with a CMHC-insured mortgage

Upgrades must improve energy efficiency or accessibility

What projects qualify:

Insulation upgrades

Energy-efficient windows and doors

Heat pumps and high-efficiency HVAC systems

Solar panels

Accessibility modifications (ramps, wider doorways, walk-in showers)

How it works:

CMHC adds $40,000 to your mortgage at a reduced rate (typically 0.5-1% below market rate)

You repay the loan over 10-25 years as part of your mortgage

No forgiveness (unlike the Secondary Suite Loan), but the interest savings can be significant

Application process:

Contact your mortgage lender (if CMHC-insured)

Apply for CMHC Green Home program

Provide quotes and project details

Complete upgrades after approval

Provide proof of completion

**Our take:** This is a good option if you do not qualify for grants or rebates but want to finance energy-efficient upgrades at a lower interest rate. Especially useful for larger projects (whole-home insulation, solar panels) where upfront costs are high.

5. Ontario Renovates: Up to $10,000 for Seniors & Accessibility

**What it is:** A provincial and municipal program that provides grants and forgivable loans to low- and moderate-income seniors and people with disabilities for accessibility modifications.

**Maximum amount:** Up to $10,000 (varies by municipality)

Eligibility:

Homeowner must be a senior (60+) or person with a disability

Household income must fall below municipal thresholds (typically $50,000-$80,000 for seniors, $60,000-$100,000 for families)

Home must be owner-occupied

Applicant must demonstrate financial need

What projects qualify:

Wheelchair ramps

Stairlifts and elevators

Widening doorways

Lowering countertops and cabinets

Accessible bathrooms (walk-in showers, grab bars, raised toilets)

Accessible entrances (no-step entries)

How it works:

Administered by municipalities (each city has its own application process)

Some programs are grants (no repayment), others are forgivable loans (forgiven if you stay in the home for 5-10 years)

Application process (varies by city):

Contact your municipal housing department

Apply for Ontario Renovates program

Provide proof of income and need (income tax returns, medical documentation)

Submit renovation quotes from licensed contractors

If approved, complete work

Submit proof of completion for reimbursement or loan forgiveness

Municipal contacts:

**Toronto:** Toronto Renovates (416-392-7844)

**Mississauga:** Homeowner Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP)

**Brampton:** Brampton Home Renovation Grant

**Ottawa:** Ottawa Renovates

**Hamilton:** Hamilton Renovates

**Our take:** If you or a family member has accessibility needs and your household income is moderate, this program can cover 50-100% of accessibility renovation costs. The income thresholds are higher than you might think — many middle-class families qualify.

6. Toronto Green Standard Incentives

**What it is:** Financial incentives for Toronto homeowners who exceed energy efficiency and sustainability standards in renovations.

**Maximum amount:** Varies by project (typically $2,000-$10,000)

Eligibility:

Home must be located in Toronto

Renovation must exceed Tier 1 Toronto Green Standard requirements (better than Ontario Building Code minimum)

Must apply before starting renovation

What projects qualify:

Deep energy retrofits (whole-home insulation, air sealing, high-efficiency HVAC)

Green roof installation

Rainwater harvesting systems

Solar panels and renewable energy systems

Passive house retrofits

Application process:

Review Toronto Green Standard requirements

Submit renovation plans and energy modeling to City of Toronto

If approved, complete work to TGS standards

Pass final inspection

Receive incentive payment

**Our take:** This is a niche program for Toronto homeowners doing very high-performance energy retrofits. If you are already planning a deep energy retrofit, the incentives can offset 5-15% of costs. But the application process is rigorous — not worth it for small projects.

7. HST New Housing Rebate: Up to $30,000

**What it is:** A federal rebate that refunds a portion of HST paid on substantial renovations that create "new housing."

**Maximum amount:** Up to $30,000 (36% of federal GST paid, up to a maximum)

Eligibility:

Renovation must be "substantial" — at least 90% of interior walls, floors, and ceilings must be removed or replaced

Home must be uninhabitable during renovation (you must move out)

You must occupy the home as your primary residence after renovation

You must apply within 2 years of completion

What projects qualify:

Gut renovations where you strip the home down to studs and rebuild

Major additions that more than double the home's square footage

Converting a non-residential building (warehouse, barn) into a home

What does NOT qualify:

Partial renovations (kitchen, bathroom, basement finishing)

Renovations where you stay in the home during work

Cosmetic updates (painting, flooring, fixtures)

Application process:

Complete substantial renovation (save all receipts showing HST paid)

Obtain occupancy permit (if required)

File GST/HST New Housing Rebate form (within 2 years of completion)

Receive rebate (typically 12-20 weeks)

**Our take:** This is a very specialized rebate that applies to only the most extensive renovations (full gut jobs). Most homeowners will not qualify because "substantial renovation" has a very high threshold (90% of interior must be removed). But if you are doing a whole-home gut renovation, this can rebate $10,000-$30,000 in HST.

How to Stack Multiple Rebate Programs

The best way to maximize rebates is to stack multiple programs. Here are common stacking scenarios:

Scenario 1: Basement Apartment + Energy Upgrades

**Project:** Finish a basement apartment with insulation, new HVAC, and separate entrance

Rebates:

CMHC Secondary Suite Loan: $80,000 (forgivable)

Canada Greener Homes Grant: $3,000 (insulation + air sealing)

Enbridge Rebate: $1,200 (insulation)

**Total rebates: $84,200** (enough to cover 80-100% of a typical basement apartment project)

Scenario 2: Whole-Home Energy Retrofit

**Project:** Attic insulation, basement insulation, air sealing, new heat pump

Rebates:

Canada Greener Homes Grant: $5,000

Enbridge Rebate: $8,100 (heat pump + insulation)

CMHC Green Home Loan: $40,000 (low-interest financing)

Total rebates + financing: $53,100

Scenario 3: Accessibility Modifications for Senior

**Project:** Wheelchair ramp, accessible bathroom, stairlift

Rebates:

Ontario Renovates: $10,000

CMHC Green Home: $10,000 (if accessibility features also improve energy efficiency)

**Total rebates: $20,000** (could cover 50-80% of accessibility renovation costs)

Eligibility Checklist: Do You Qualify?

Before applying for any rebate, confirm you meet these common requirements:

For most programs:

You must own the home (not rent)

Home must be your primary residence (some programs allow secondary residences)

Renovations must meet code and permit requirements

You must use licensed contractors for most rebates (DIY usually does not qualify)

You must apply BEFORE starting work (for pre-approval programs)

You must save all receipts and proof of completion

Income thresholds (for need-based programs):

Ontario Renovates: Typically under $50,000-$80,000 household income for seniors

CMHC programs: No income limits for most programs, but you must qualify for mortgage financing

Timeline requirements:

Canada Greener Homes: Must complete upgrades within 18 months of pre-evaluation

HST New Housing Rebate: Must apply within 2 years of completion

Application Timeline: When to Apply

Before you start renovation:

Canada Greener Homes Grant: Book pre-evaluation BEFORE any work begins

Toronto Green Standard: Apply BEFORE pulling building permit

CMHC Secondary Suite Loan: Apply and get approval BEFORE starting construction

During renovation:

Enbridge Rebates: Some upgrades require pre-approval, others can be applied for after completion

After renovation:

HST New Housing Rebate: Apply within 2 years of completion

Canada Greener Homes Grant (final claim): Submit within 18 months of pre-evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stack multiple rebate programs?

Yes! Many programs are designed to be stacked. For example, you can combine Canada Greener Homes Grant + Enbridge Rebate + CMHC Green Home Loan for the same project. Just ensure you are not "double-dipping" on the same expense (e.g., claiming the same $5,000 insulation job on two different rebate programs).

Do I need to hire licensed contractors to qualify for rebates?

Yes, for most programs. DIY work typically does not qualify for rebates. Contractors must be licensed, insured, and able to provide detailed invoices showing materials, labour, and HST.

What happens if I sell my home before the forgiveness period ends (CMHC programs)?

You must repay the prorated balance. For example, if you received an $80,000 CMHC Secondary Suite Loan and sell after 5 years, you must repay $40,000 (half the loan).

Can I apply for rebates if I am renovating a rental property?

Some programs allow rental properties (CMHC Green Home), but most require the home to be your primary residence. Check each program's eligibility requirements.

How long does it take to receive rebate payments?

Varies by program:

Canada Greener Homes: 6-12 weeks after final application

Enbridge: 4-8 weeks after submission

CMHC programs: Loan is issued upfront (Secondary Suite Loan) or added to mortgage (Green Home)

Do rebates count as taxable income?

Generally, no. Most government rebates and grants are not considered taxable income. Consult a tax professional if you are unsure.

Key Takeaways

**Biggest rebate:** CMHC Secondary Suite Loan ($80,000 forgivable) for basement apartments

**Best energy rebate:** Canada Greener Homes Grant ($5,600) + Enbridge Rebate ($10,000) = up to $15,600 for insulation and heat pumps

**Stacking is allowed:** Combine federal, provincial, utility, and municipal programs for maximum rebates

**Apply early:** Many programs are first-come, first-served or have annual funding caps

**Pre-approval required:** Most programs require you to apply BEFORE starting work

**Save all receipts:** You must provide detailed invoices and proof of completion to receive rebates

**Use licensed contractors:** DIY work usually does not qualify

For basement apartment cost estimates including CMHC rebates, visit our [Basement Second Unit Cost Guide](/costs/basement-second-unit).

For city-specific savings programs, explore our [Savings Guide](/savings) and [Toronto Savings Guide](/savings/toronto).

Get a free renovation estimate at [RenoNext Price Check](/price-check).

Ontario Renovation Rebates You're Probably Missing (2026)