Homeowners can apply for secondary suites subsidy pilot program

Applications are now open for County homeowners and small landlords to participate in the new Secondary Suites Subsidy pilot program which encourages development of secondary or garden suites as long-term housing rentals.

In February, council approved $200,000 from the reserve for affordable housing to develop the pilot.

The pilot will provide homeowners and small landlords (fewer than 10 rental properties) up to $25,000 in interest-free, forgivable loans toward construction and renovation costs.

Funded units must remain long-term rentals for at least 15 years.

Projects will be reviewed by municipal staff to determine project and applicant eligibility. Preference will be given to projects that:

– have building permits, construction drawings, confirmed contractor, etc in place.
– have space for at least three vehicles.
– can be completed in 2022.
– can be connected to municipal services (water / sewer,)
are located within walking distance of Main streets,
reduce physical barriers related to housing (e.g. ramps, handrails, grab bars, cues for doorbells/fire alarms, etc.)

The following are not eligible projects:
– Retirement homes, long-term care homes (including nursing homes), and crisis care facilities.
– Units not subject to compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
– Cosmetic changes and routine maintenance.
– Construction / renovations carried out on the property prior to approval.

Residents can find detailed information on The County’s website, including eligibility, terms and conditions, program priorities and the application form. The intake window for the pilot program closes on Friday, May 27 at noon.