If you are buying a newly built, energy‑efficient home with a CMHC‑insured mortgage, you could get a 25% refund on your CMHC mortgage insurance premium. The CMHC Eco Plus program rewards buyers who choose high‑efficiency homes by putting real cash back in your pocket after closing. To qualify, you must meet CMHC’s energy performance rules and apply within the allowed window.
CMHC Eco Plus is a federal incentive from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). It provides a partial refund equal to 25% of the CMHC mortgage loan insurance premium for eligible buyers of newly built, energy‑efficient homes.
Here’s how it works:
There is no set dollar cap on the refund. The amount depends on your original CMHC insurance premium.
To qualify for CMHC Eco Plus, you must meet all of the following conditions.
Your home must meet one of these energy criteria:
Energy performance is checked using the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) EnerGuide Rating System.
Homes without a qualifying certificate or EnerGuide rating are not eligible.
Condominium units can qualify if they are newly built and never occupied, and the right energy efficiency documents are provided. CMHC has special rules for condos, so ask your builder or developer for the correct paperwork early.
The refund is not automatic. You need to apply.
Complete your home purchase and mortgage closing.
Your CMHC mortgage insurance premium must be paid first.
Collect energy efficiency documentation.
This includes your EnerGuide evaluation or eligible certification.
Submit your CMHC Eco Plus application.
Applications must be sent within 24 months of your mortgage closing date.
Receive your refund.
If approved, CMHC will send you a refund equal to 25% of your insurance premium.
If you miss the 24‑month deadline, your application will be denied.
The refund is 25% of your CMHC mortgage insurance premium.
For example:
There is no maximum refund amount published. Your refund depends on your mortgage size and premium.
Assuming resale homes qualify.
CMHC Eco Plus is only for newly built, never‑occupied homes.
Not confirming energy certification early.
Builders do not always complete EnerGuide assessments automatically. Ask for this in writing before you close.
Missing the 24‑month application window.
Late applications are not accepted, even if your home qualifies.
Thinking the refund is automatic.
You must apply directly to CMHC with the required documents.
Q: Is CMHC Eco Plus a grant or a rebate?
It is a partial refund of your CMHC mortgage insurance premium, not a grant or loan. You get money back after closing if you are approved.
Q: Is the CMHC Eco Plus refund taxable?
CMHC treats the refund as an adjustment to insurance costs, not income. For personal tax details, check with your tax advisor.
Q: Can I combine CMHC Eco Plus with other energy incentives?
Yes. CMHC Eco Plus can be combined with provincial or utility energy efficiency rebates, as long as the other program rules allow it.
Q: Does CMHC Eco Plus apply to renovations?
No. The program is only for newly built homes, not for retrofits or renovations of older properties.
Q: How do I know if my certification qualifies?
CMHC accepts eligible certifications or an EnerGuide rating showing at least 20% better energy performance than a typical new home.
CMHC Eco Plus is just one of many incentives for energy‑efficient construction and financing. To see all the programs you may qualify for, try GrantHub’s eligibility matcher. It helps you quickly find federal and provincial rebates and grants based on your property type, location, and energy features. Check GrantHub to make sure you do not miss out on other possible refunds or incentives before deadlines pass.
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