CMHC has introduced their Eco Program: providing premium refunds for energy efficient homes are for clients who are buying a home deemed “energy efficient”.  Clients could be eligible for a 25% refund of their CMHC Insurance Premium!  For some perspective; on a purchase price of $850,000 with minimum down payment of $60,000 the CMHC insurance premium is $31,600. Clients who buy a qualifying property, are eligible for a refund of up to $7900.  For homeowners who are doing renovations that increase energy efficiency, there are also refunds available.

CMHC recently introduced new eligibility criteria for this program, including an updated and expanded list of energy efficiency certifications, and energy efficiency targets based not only on total Energy consumption but also Greenhouse Gas Emissions.  Building codes are progressing toward net-zero ready standards, eligibility criteria continues to be adjusted.

New Construction

To be deemed an energy efficient new build, properties must have been awarded an eligible certificate–there are multiple eligible certifications including BC Energy Step Code, Built Green Canada, Canadian Home Builders Association to name a few.  However, if a new-build doesn’t come with the certification, clients can get their home assessed by a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) qualified energy advisor.

How does someone apply?

After closing your mortgage, eligible borrowers have up to 2 years to submit the refund request, directly to CMHC through their Eco Program with supporting documentation.  The homeowner applies through CMHC’s website, uploading their supporting documentation. Once approved, CMHC mails a cheque directly to the client. The funds can be used for any purpose, they do not have to be applied to the mortgage.

Required documents will include:

Final Energy Efficient Certificate from the list of  Eligible Third-Party Certifications and/or

Energuide label for Energuide renovation upgrade report for existing homes

These supporting documents are ‘good’ for up to 5 years. Meaning, if the house sells within 5 years, the new buyer can also apply for the CMHC refund.  Even if it was already applied for by the previous owner.  Yes it’s double dipping that is allowed and encouraged by CMHC for this program.

Renovate for Energy Efficiency

If you have an insured mortgage with CMHC, and you’re spending at least $20,000 in energy efficient renovations, the program is available for you.  This applies to both single family dwellings and condos.  Buyers can use the Purchase Plus Improvements Program through CMHC, to get the money needed for the updates. See the following link: https://www.32degreesbuilding.com.au/how-to-make-your-home-energy-efficient/

Energy Costs are getting higher and the cheapest energy is the energy you don’t use.

Paul Pettipas – Nova Scotia Home Builders Association

To be Eligible:

• Be a homeowner with CMHC Insured financing
• Allocate a minimum $20,000 for energy-efficient improvements that fall within any of these 3 categories

1. Building Envelope (insulation, windows, doors, roof, attic, air tightness & foundation).
2. Mechanical systems (HVAC- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, heat pump systems).
3. Renewable energy systems (solar, wind, geothermal).

CMHC has made the program user friendly and beneficial for the homeowner, putting money back in their pocket is always a positive.

 

If you would like more information or have questions, please ask! Call us at 250-753-2242 or apply here: Online Application

https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/canada-greener-homes

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