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Human Services Division
Ontario Renovates
Fact Sheet
Program Overview
The Ontario Renovates Program is offered as part of the Investment in Affordable Housing for
Ontario (IAH 2014 Extension) program funded by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
(MMAH) to provide financial assistance to renovate affordable ownership properties.
Funding is provided in the form of a 10 year, interest-free forgivable loan to homeowners based
on the cost of the approved home repair project costing up to $15,000. Major repairs such as
foundation repairs, well water and septic system projects may be approved for projects costing
up to $25,000. A security registered on title of the property for the duration of the loan
forgiveness period will be required.
In addition to home repair funds, funding for accessibility repairs made to a home and/or unit
up to $5,000 based on the cost of approved work items is in the form of a grant and does not
require repayment.
Program Objectives
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To improve the living conditions of households in need through financial assistance to
repair deficiencies in affordable ownership;
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To foster independent living of seniors and persons with disabilities by providing
financial assistance to support modifications and renovations to increase accessibility of
affordable ownership properties;
To respect the environment and to realize savings that will improve housing affordability
over the long term through the use of energy-savings products or systems; and
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To encourage and support the employment of apprentices.
Applicant Eligibility
Eligible applicants must be homeowners residing within the United Counties of Leeds and
Grenville, with a modest home valued at less than $200,000. Annual household income cannot
exceed $55,000, and household assets cannot exceed $20,000. Property taxes, mortgage
payments, land lease payments for mobile homeowners, and home insurance payments must be
paid up to date.
Eligible Repairs
Eligible home repairs for Ontario Renovates funding include:
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heating systems
chimneys
doors and windows
foundations
roofs, walls, floors and ceilings
vents and louvers
January 2013; Rev. Nov. 2013; April 2015
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electrical systems (but does not include
the installation of solar panels)
plumbing
septic systems, well water, and well
drilling
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Human Services Division
Ontario Renovates
Fact Sheet
Cosmetic changes such as driveway paving, landscaping, routine maintenance, painting,
bathroom makeovers, and the installation of new kitchen cupboards are not eligible for funding.
Accessibility Modifications
Modifications or repairs of up to $5,000, to reduce physical barriers related that are
reasonably related to the occupant’s disability and/or necessary to ensure safe
occupancy in the unit may include:
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Ramps
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Handrails
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Chair and bath lifts
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Height adjustments to countertops
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Cues for doorbells/fire alarms
Mobility equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters and supportive care is not
eligible for accessibility funding.
Ontario Renovates funding will not be approved when home repair assistance was previously
provided by the federal, provincial or municipal government; certain exceptions apply.
Applications are accepted on a first-complete, first-approved basis subject to funding
availability.
Other program eligibility criteria apply. For more information or to apply for Ontario Renovates
funding, please contact:
United Counties of Leeds and Grenville
Human Services Division – Housing Department
Ontario Renovates Program
25 Central Avenue West, Suite 200
Brockville, ON K6V 4N6
613-342-3840 or 1-800-267-8146 extension 2401
January 2013; Rev. Nov. 2013; April 2015
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