What accessibility renovations qualify for government funding in NB in 2026?

Several federal and provincial programs offer meaningful funding for accessibility renovations in New Brunswick in 2026, though program details, eligibility, and funding amounts change frequently — always verify current terms directly with the administering agency before planning your project.

The most significant program for most NB homeowners is the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP), which provides forgivable loans for accessibility modifications to homes occupied by low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Eligible work typically includes ramp installation, grab bar and handrail additions, widened doorways, accessible bathroom conversions, stair lifts, and barrier-free shower installations. Funding amounts and income thresholds vary by province and are updated periodically, so contact CMHC's NB office directly for current 2026 figures.

The Government of Canada's Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HATC) is a federal non-refundable tax credit that allows eligible homeowners and qualifying individuals to claim up to $20,000 in eligible renovation expenses per year, generating up to $3,000 in tax relief. This isn't a grant — it reduces your tax owing — but it's available to seniors 65+ and people eligible for the Disability Tax Credit regardless of income. Qualifying renovations include wheelchair ramps, walk-in tubs, roll-in showers, grab bars, stair lifts, wider doorways, and non-slip flooring. Keep all receipts and confirm eligibility with a tax professional, as this is tax guidance outside what we can advise on directly.

Veterans Affairs Canada offers the Veteran Independence Program for eligible veterans needing home adaptations to maintain independence — worth checking if applicable to your household.

What Renovations Typically Qualify

Across most programs, the common thread is modifications that reduce fall risk, improve mobility, or allow a person with a disability to remain safely in their home. In practical NB renovation terms, this means projects like accessible bathroom conversions ($15,000–$30,000 for a full roll-in shower, grab bars, comfort-height toilet, and blocking for future grab bar additions), wheelchair ramp construction ($3,000–$8,000 depending on rise, materials, and whether a landing or covered structure is needed), stair lift installation ($3,500–$8,000 for a straight staircase), doorway widening to 32–36 inches ($500–$2,000 per doorway depending on whether it's load-bearing), and main-floor bedroom or bathroom additions for those who can no longer safely use stairs.

NB-Specific Considerations

NB's older housing stock — particularly in Saint John, Fredericton, and older rural communities — presents real challenges for accessibility retrofits. Many homes have narrow hallways, steep staircases, and bathrooms too small for a standard wheelchair turning radius (60 inches). A proper accessibility assessment by an occupational therapist (OT) before renovation planning is genuinely valuable and sometimes required for funding applications. OTs can specify exactly what modifications are needed and in what priority order, which strengthens your funding application and ensures the renovation actually serves the person's needs.

For exterior accessibility work like ramps and walkways, NB's frost depth of 4–5 feet means any permanent ramp structure needs properly footed supports below frost line — a detail that affects both cost and permit requirements. Modular ramp systems avoid this but are less durable in NB's freeze-thaw conditions.

Always pull permits for structural doorway modifications and any electrical work associated with accessibility upgrades (lift installation, automatic door openers). Confirm your contractor carries WorkSafeNB coverage and request references from previous accessibility renovation projects specifically.

For current program details, contact CMHC at 1-800-668-2642, Service Canada for federal programs, or the Province of NB's Department of Social Development, which administers some provincial supports for seniors and people with disabilities. Program availability and funding levels shift — what's current today may change mid-year.

Need help finding a contractor experienced in accessibility renovations in your area? New Brunswick Renovations can connect you with local professionals at no cost.