Province boosts home repair funding, streamlines support programs

The Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is set to expand financial support for low-income homeowners while cutting administrative requirements.

Funding available through homeowner support programs will be significantly increased, with several measures aimed at making it easier for residents to access assistance for repairs, energy upgrades and accessibility improvements.

Beginning in fall 2026, the Provincial Home Repair Program and the Home Energy Savings Program will be merged to reduce overlap. Changes to those programs include doubling the forgivable loan for repairs from $5,000 to $10,000, or from $6,500 to $13,000 in Labrador.

The lifetime maximum funding available to homeowners will also rise from $12,500 to $30,000, while the waiting period to reapply will be shortened from seven years to five. Pre- and post-repair inspections will no longer be required unless requested by the homeowner.

The Home Modification Program, which supports accessibility upgrades, will also see increased funding. Forgivable loans will double from $7,500 to $15,000. Requirements for occupational therapist recommendations and inspections will be removed for minor modifications such as handrails and grab bars, though they will remain in place for larger projects like bathroom renovations or ramp installations.

Income thresholds for eligibility will remain unchanged. The limit for the combined home repair and energy savings program will stay at $42,500, or $65,000 in Labrador, while the Home Modification Program threshold remains $51,500, or $65,000 in Labrador.