News release

Program Announced to Kick-Start New Home Construction

Premier's Office

The province will offer a one-time new home construction rebate equivalent to 50 per cent of the provincial portion of the HST, Premier Darrell Dexter announced today, July 7.

"Government is fulfilling a commitment to reduce the HST on new home construction to stimulate the economy while creating and maintaining jobs for skilled tradespeople," said Premier Dexter. "Construction is a major driver of the provincial economy and this innovative program gives us an opportunity to create the jobs needed during this tough economic time."

Homeowners who have a municipal construction permit dated May 1 or later will be eligible for the rebate. The four per cent rebate will be limited to a maximum of $7,000. Fifteen hundred rebates will be available for construction or purchases completed by March 31.

From January to April, Nova Scotia experienced a more than 30 per cent decrease in new home construction, excluding apartments, over the same period in 2008.

"Premier Dexter understands that our industry and our skilled tradespeople are vital to economic growth in Nova Scotia," said Paul Pettipas, chief executive officer, Nova Scotia Homebuilders Association. "This is a smart plan that will help builders and keep skilled tradespeople working in our province."

Program details are being developed in consultation with industry and will be available later this summer. Details will be shared with the public when they are finalized.