What You Need to Know About the BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA Rebate)

BC RAHA Rebate
BC RAHA Rebate

Imagine a world where every home is a sanctuary of comfort and independence, regardless of its occupants' physical abilities. In British Columbia, this vision is becoming a reality thanks to an innovative program that's transforming lives and homes across the province. Welcome to the BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) – a beacon of hope for those seeking to enhance their living spaces and reclaim their independence.

In a society that increasingly values inclusivity and accessibility, BC RAHA stands out as a shining example of proactive government support. This program isn't just about installing accessible showers or installing grab bars; it's about empowering individuals, preserving dignity, and fostering a sense of belonging within one's own home. As we delve into the details of this transformative initiative, prepare to discover how BC RAHA is not only reshaping homes but also redefining the very concept of accessible living in British Columbia.

 

What Is the BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA)?

The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) is a program designed to help eligible homeowners and tenants in British Columbia make their homes more accessible. The rebate provides financial assistance for home modifications that improve safety, mobility, and independence for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations.

BC RAHA offers up to $20,000.00 in rebates for eligible home adaptations. These can include installations such as barrier-free showers, raised toilets, safe bathing accessories, and bathroom lever faucets. The program aims to support people with disabilities or diminished abilities to continue living comfortably in their own homes.

To qualify for the rebate, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding residency, income, and the nature of the proposed adaptations. The program is administered by BC Housing and is part of the province's commitment to creating more accessible and inclusive communities.

 

Who Can Apply for the BC RAHA Rebate?

The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations (BC RAHA) is available to both homeowners and tenants, provided they meet specific criteria. Let's break down the eligibility requirements for each group.

Criteria for Homeowners

  • Someone in the household has a disability or lasting loss of ability;
  • The home adaptation request relates to the disability or loss of ability;
  • The property being adapted is the primary residence of both the homeowner and the person the adaptations are for;
  • Some requests may need to be supported by an Occupational Therapist (OT), a Physical Therapist (PT), or another medical professional's assessment;
  • Inhabitants are Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, refugees sponsored by the Government of Canada, or individuals who have applied for refugee status;
  • Total household income before tax is under $134,140;
  • Less than $100,000 in household assets (Includes cash, stocks, Mutual Funds, GICs, TFSAs, other property, and excludes the home lived in, RRSPs, RESPs, RIFs, vehicles, etc.).

Criteria for Tenants with Permission from Landlords

  • The rental suite to be adapted is a legal, self-contained unit with a full kitchen and bathroom;
  • The unit is rented to tenants who live independently and do not need assisted living;
  • The home adaptation request relates to the tenant’s disability or loss of ability;
  • A Tenancy Agreement is in place between the tenant and the landlord;
  • The rent is below the Rent Affordability Limits;
  • The landlord agrees to not increase the rent due to the adaptations;
  • The tenants requiring the adaptations are Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, refugees sponsored by the Government of Canada, or individuals who have applied for refugee status and are not under private sponsorship;
  • The tenant’s total household income before taxes is $134,140 or less, and their household assets are valued at less than $100,000 (Includes cash, stocks, Mutual Funds, GICs, TFSAs, other property, and Excludes the home you live in, RRSPs, RESPs, RIFs, vehicles, etc.).

 

Eligible and Non-Eligible Property

The following types of properties are eligible for this program.

  • A single-household house;
  • Legal basement suite;
  • A row home or townhouse;
  • Co-operative housing not subsidized by any level of government;
  • An individual unit in a strata corporation (condo) property;
  • An individual unit in a multiple-unit rental building;
  • More than one unit in a multiple-unit rental building up to a maximum of five (5) units per year.

The following types of properties are ineligible for this program.

  • An entire rental building, only 5 suites per year;
  • An entire strata corporation (condo) property;
  • Housing owned, subsidized by or under agreement with any level of government;
  • A hotel, motel, lodge, or bed-and-breakfast accommodation;
  • A hospital, nursing home or residential care facility;
  • Student housing, including dormitories;
  • Company housing provided to employees;
  • Religious institutions or associated residences, rectories and convents;
  • A recreational or seasonal property;
  • A recreational vehicle or trailer;
  • Properties under construction;
  • Properties where foreclosure proceedings have commenced.

Units occupied by households receiving assistance through the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) or the Rental Assistance programs, may be eligible*

 

How to Apply for the BC RAHA Rebate

Applying for the BC RAHA rebate is a relatively straightforward process. Below, we outline the steps involved along with what you'll need to successfully complete each one.

1. Determine Eligibility

The first step in applying for the BC RAHA rebate is to determine your eligibility. Reviewing the program criteria provided above before proceeding with the application process.

2. Gather Required Documents

Once eligibility is confirmed, gather documents like a Notice of Assessment to provide proof of income, bank statements, bank summaries, proof of citizenship, BC Property Assessment (if owned), or a tenancy agreement (if renting), and any necessary medical assessments that justify the need for adaptations. Having these documents ready will streamline the application process.

3. Complete the Application Form

Fill out the BC RAHA application, available on the BC Housing website. It requires detailed information about the applicant, the property, and the specific adaptations needed, so be ready to provide it in full. Thoroughness now will avoid delays in processing later on. You can also contact ORCA HealthCare to assist you. We work with many RAHA clients and are able to answer any questions you may have about the program.

4. Obtain a Cost Estimate

Get a quote from ORCA HealthCare for the proposed adaptations. We can provide advice on product selection and installation based on your specific project needs.

Call Joselle or Rey at 604-733-2656 to book a FREE bathroom assessment. You can also email us at: info@orcahealthcare.com

5. Submit Application

Send your completed application, along with all supporting documents, to BC Housing. BC Housing will review your application and notify you of their decision. If approved, you can begin the adaptation work. Refer to BC Housing for instructions on how to coordinate payment of the rebate. 

Remember to wait for approval before starting any adaptations, unless it's an emergency situation related to hospital release. In such a case, the government will require documentation confirming the hospital stay and an assessment by an OT/PT.

 

Make the Most of the BC RAHA Rebate with Quality Products from Orca Healthcare

At Orca HealthCare, we offer a wide range of high-quality accessibility products eligible for the BC RAHA rebate.

Our selection includes:

  • Walk-in and roll-in showers;
  • Raised toilets and anti-slip bathroom flooring;
  • Safe bathing accessories (seats, shower heads, glide bars, curtains, water stoppers);
  • Grab bars and handrails;
  • Bathroom and kitchen lever faucets. 

Our team can assist you in selecting the right products for your mobility needs, helping you make the most of your BC RAHA rebate. Contact Orca HealthCare at 604-733-2656 today to explore our range of accessibility solutions and take the first step towards a more accessible home.

Leave a Reply