Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) – Secondary and Garden Suites

Modifying existing homes to add secondary or garden suites is a great way to create more on-reserve affordable housing. Our Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) — Secondary/Garden Suite On-Reserve provides the financial support needed to create these suites in your community.

Who is eligible for financial support?

This program is open to all First Nations or individual First Nation members. Specifically, it applies to those who own a family home that could be converted to accommodate a self-contained rental unit. The following criteria apply:

• The existing home must meet all applicable zoning and building requirements.
• The suite’s tenant must have an income at or below the established limit which is based on the location of the community.
• The new unit must be for a senior or an adult with a disability.

What type of work is covered by this program?

Financial support is provided for all eligible costs related to the creation of a self-contained secondary or garden suite. Additional assistance is available under RRAP for Persons with Disabilities On-Reserve to undertake accessibility modifications.

The cost of creating and modifying common areas and elements will be prorated between the existing home and the newly created secondary suite. The existing home must meet minimum health and safety standards in order for a secondary suite to be created. Assistance under RRAP Regular may be available to cover the share of the prorated costs related to the existing unit and other mandatory repairs subject to the program criteria being met.

Important: Have you done any of this work before getting your application approved in writing? If so, that work won’t be eligible for funding.

How much financial support is available?

We will provide up to $60,000 for each secondary or garden suite. If your property is located on-reserve in northern or remote areas, the maximum amount may be increased by 25%. This is a forgivable loan, meaning it doesn't have to be repaid if you meet all the terms and conditions.

Additional support may be available through our program that covers the costs of home adaptation for people with disabilities.

PRO TIP: Download and save the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program – Secondary and Garden Suites fact sheet for key details.

Still have questions about the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program – Secondary and Garden Suites?
Contact your CMHC Housing Solutions Specialist – Indigenous and the North.