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- On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program
On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program
Funding for major repairs, emergency repairs and adaptations to improve the health and safety of on-reserve housing.
IMPORTANT
In January 2024, many of our on-reserve renovation and adaptation funding programs were consolidated into a single and enhanced program called the On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program.
Note: The Shelter Enhancement Program – Renovation, remains a separate funding initiative.

What is the On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program?
The On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program streamlines support for First Nations by simplifying access to funding and providing greater flexibility for managing housing repairs and adaptations. This enhanced program continues to prioritize and support:
- low-income households, seniors and individuals with disabilities
- comprehensive assistance with major or emergency repairs to ensure ongoing health and safety for occupants
- support for accessibility modifications and minor adaptations
- assistance in the creation of additional space or the conversion of properties
- ensuring the affordability of housing, where applicable
SAVE TO MY FOLDER
On-Reserve Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program
FUND DETAILS
Financial support is offered directly to First Nations to support housing projects with the following provisions:
- Maximum Funding: Up to $60,000 is provided for each unit.
- Enhanced Funding: If your property is located on-reserve in northern or remote areas or if the project includes accessibility work for persons with disabilities or minor adaptations for seniors, the maximum funding amount may be increased by 25%.
- Contribution-Based Funding: The financial support is provided in the form of a contribution. This means that if all the approved repairs are completed within 12 months, the funds do not need to be repaid.
By taking advantage of this funding opportunity, you can receive the necessary financial assistance to support your housing project.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility for Financial Support
The program is open to all First Nations, who may apply for funding on-reserve projects for First Nation or occupant-owned homes. To qualify, the total household income of the occupants must be at or below the established limit, which is determined based on the location of the community. All approved funding goes directly to the First Nation only.
Financial support is available for the following types of homes:
- Major or Emergency Repairs: Homes that require significant repairs to ensure the continued health and safety of the occupants, including mould remediation.
- Accessibility Modifications: Homes that need modifications to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities or minor adaptations for seniors.
- Secondary/Garden Suites for seniors or adults with disabilities: Homes that require modifications to create additional space, such as secondary or garden suites, to address overcrowding.
- Conversion Projects: Non-residential properties that need to be converted into residential units.
- Affordability Measures: Initiatives that ensure the affordability of housing, where applicable.
Important Notice Regarding Repairs
You must follow these guidelines to ensure eligibility for funding:
- Prior Repairs: If you have already completed any of the repairs listed in your application before receiving written approval, they will only be eligible for funding if the work began after you submitted your application.
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Timelines for Work: Once you receive approval, it’s important to note the following timelines:
- All approved work must commence within 3 months from the date of approval.
- The entire scope of work must be completed within 12 months from the date of approval.
- Final Inspections: CMHC may request a final inspection. For monitoring purposes, please take photos before starting your repairs and retain all invoices and quotes.
- Project Updates: CMHC will reach out to you every quarter to request updates on the status of your project. You are required to respond to all CMHC communications.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can maximize your chances of receiving funding for the necessary repairs.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Please contact your Indigenous and the North Housing Solutions Specialist for more information on the application process. Your specialist can help you:
- Determine program eligibility
- Confirm that your project aligns with this program
- Explain the application, approval, and funding process
- Understand the required documents by:
- Assisting you to gather and complete the CMHC application documents
- Assisting you with the application portal
- Supporting you through the approval process
Questions?
Contact your Indigenous and the North Housing Solutions Specialist .
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