Homeowner Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Programs

This program offers financial assistance to people who own and occupy substandard housing to enable them to repair their dwellings to a minimum level of health and safety. Funding is provided jointly by the Government of Canada (75%) and the Province of Nova Scotia (25%).

The maximum level of assistance is $16,000 which is forgiven over a maximum of five years.

Eligibility

Homeowners may apply

• if the value of their house is below a specific figure; and
• if their household income is below established ceilings, based on household size and area (Household Income Limits - HILS).

Eligibility is limited to properties lacking basic facilities or in need of major repair in one or more of five categories:

• structural
• electrical
• plumbing
• heating
• fire safety

Assistance may also be available to alleviate overcrowding.

Eligible Repairs

The forgivable assistance is available only for mandatory repairs relating to health and safety, and to extending the useful life of the property.

Ineligible Repairs

Work carried out before the Homeowner RRAP loan is approved in writing is not eligible.

Next steps

Contact the nearest Housing Services office of the Department of Community Services.