Home Improvement Grants & Rebates for Simcoe County Homeowners (2026)
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Introduction
Here’s something most Barrie and Simcoe County homeowners don’t realize: there are thousands of dollars in grants and rebates available right now for home repairs, renovations, and energy upgrades. I’m talking real money—up to $15,000 for essential repairs and up to $12,000 for energy improvements.
After helping homeowners navigate these programs, I’ve learned that most people either don’t know these programs exist or think they’re too complicated to bother with. That’s leaving serious money on the table.
This guide breaks down every program currently available to Simcoe County homeowners in 2026. Whether you’re planning a bathroom renovation, need essential home repairs, want to upgrade your insulation, or need accessibility modifications, there’s likely funding available to help offset your costs.
The bottom line? If you’re planning a renovation anyway, you might as well get government money to help pay for it.
Quick Summary: What’s Available in 2026
Here’s what you can access right now:
| Program | Maximum Funding | Best For | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Renovates | Up to $15,000 | Essential repairs, accessibility | ✅ Accepting applications |
| Home Renovation Savings | Up to $12,000 | Insulation, windows, heat pumps | ✅ Active through Nov 2026 |
| Canada Greener Homes | N/A | Energy retrofits | ❌ CLOSED (deadline passed Dec 31, 2025) |
Real talk: Most of the work we do—from bathroom accessibility upgrades to insulation improvements to smart home installations—can qualify for at least one of these programs.
Ontario Renovates: Up to $15,000 for Essential Repairs
This is the big one for homeowners who need major repairs but don’t have the cash ready.
What It Is
Ontario Renovates is a forgivable loan program run by the County of Simcoe. It’s designed for low-to-moderate income homeowners who need essential repairs or accessibility modifications.
The key word? Forgivable. After 10 years of living in your home, you owe nothing. It’s basically a grant if you stay put.
How Much Can You Get?
| Type | Amount | Terms |
|---|---|---|
| Essential repairs | Up to $15,000 | Forgivable loan (10-year term) |
| Accessibility modifications | Up to $5,000 | Grant (not a loan - no repayment) |
| Repayment | $0 per month | Forgiven at 10% per year |
I worked with a homeowner in Holly whose roof was shot. They qualified for $12,000 through Ontario Renovates. After they’ve lived in the house for 10 years, that $12,000 is completely forgiven—no monthly payments required during those 10 years.
Who Qualifies
- ✅ Own and live in your home in Simcoe County
- ✅ Property must be your sole and principal residence
- ✅ Meet income and home value limits (these change annually—verify current limits when applying)
- ✅ Need essential repairs in roofing, structural, electrical, plumbing, heating, or accessibility
Important: Income and home value limits are updated annually by the County of Simcoe. You must check the current year’s limits on the application package, as I cannot guarantee the specific dollar amounts without seeing the most recent documentation.
What Projects Are Covered
Building Exterior:
- Roof repairs and replacement
- Siding replacement
- Foundation repairs
- Window/door replacement (safety-related)
Essential Systems:
- Plumbing repairs and upgrades
- Electrical system repairs (we partner with ESA-certified electricians)
- Heating system replacement
- Septic system repairs
Accessibility Modifications:
- Wheelchair ramps and lifts
- Accessible bathroom renovations (walk-in showers, grab bars, wider doorways)
- Stairlifts
- Widened doorways and hallways
- Accessible kitchen modifications
Structural Repairs:
- Floor joist repairs
- Stair repairs
- Drywall and wall repairs (if structural)
How to Apply
- Download application: Visit simcoe.ca/ontariorenovates
- Gather documentation:
- Proof of ownership (deed or property tax bill)
- Income verification (Notice of Assessment from CRA)
- Contractor quotes (we provide grant-ready quotes)
- Submit application: Email to [email protected]
- Wait for approval: Typically 4-8 weeks
- Complete work with approved contractor within 120 days of approval
- Submit final documentation for loan disbursement
⚠️ CRITICAL: You MUST apply and get final approval BEFORE starting any work. Work started before final approval is NOT eligible for reimbursement. This is non-negotiable.
How we help: We provide detailed, itemized quotes formatted specifically for Ontario Renovates applications. We’re WSIB cleared and fully insured, meeting all program contractor requirements.
Contact Simcoe County:
📧 [email protected]
📞 705-725-7215 ext. 1119
📍 County of Simcoe Administration Centre, 1110 Highway 26, Midhurst, ON
Home Renovation Savings: Up to $12,000 for Energy Upgrades
This is Ontario’s newest program, launched in early 2025 and already helping thousands of homeowners across the province.
What It Is
Launched January 28, 2025, and extended through November 2026, the Home Renovation Savings Program offers rebates of up to 30% on energy-efficient home improvements. It’s co-delivered by Enbridge Gas and Save on Energy (IESO), backed by a massive $10.9 billion, 12-year provincial investment in energy efficiency.
The best part? Unlike Ontario Renovates, there are no income restrictions. Any Ontario homeowner can access these rebates.
How Much Can You Get?
| Upgrade | Maximum Rebate |
|---|---|
| Insulation (attic, walls, basement) | Up to $7,700 |
| Windows & Doors (ENERGY STAR) | $100 per opening |
| Air Sealing | Up to $250 |
| Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pump | Up to $7,500 |
| Ground Source Heat Pump | Up to $12,000 |
| Solar Panels | Up to $10,000 |
| Battery Storage | Up to $5,000 |
| Smart Thermostats | $75 |
| Energy Assessment Rebate | $600 |
Two Program Paths
Path A: Multi-Measure Stream (Requires Energy Assessment)
Best for: Homeowners doing 2+ upgrades (insulation, windows, doors, air sealing)
- Requires pre- and post-renovation energy assessments ($400-$600 total cost)
- You get $600 rebate to offset assessment costs
- Higher total rebates when combining multiple upgrades
- Can easily exceed $10,000 in combined rebates
Path B: Single-Upgrade Stream (No Assessment Required)
Best for: Homeowners doing 1 upgrade only
- Available for: Heat pumps, solar panels, battery storage, smart thermostats
- NO energy assessment required
- Faster, simpler process
- Lower paperwork burden
Real example: A homeowner in East Bayfield did insulation ($5,000 rebate), replaced 8 windows ($800 rebate), and added air sealing ($200 rebate). Total rebates: $6,000. Out-of-pocket went from $18,000 to $12,000.
Who Qualifies
- ✅ Own a detached, semi-detached, or townhouse in Ontario
- ✅ Heat with Enbridge natural gas OR connected to Ontario’s electricity grid
- ✅ Also available for homeowners heating with oil, propane, or wood
- ✅ Work completed by qualified contractors
- ✅ Products must be ENERGY STAR or on approved list
- ✅ No income restrictions
What We Can Help With
- Insulation upgrades (attic, basement, walls)
- Air sealing and draft-proofing
- Smart thermostat installation ($75 rebate)
- Drywall repairs (air sealing integration)
- Coordination with window/door installers and energy advisors
How to Apply
- Visit HomeRenovationSavings.ca
- Choose your path (A for multiple upgrades, B for single upgrade)
- If Path A: Book pre-renovation energy assessment BEFORE starting any work
- Get contractor quotes (contact us for program-compliant quotes)
- Complete upgrades with qualified contractors
- If Path A: Book post-renovation assessment
- Submit documentation through online portal
- Receive rebate within 8-12 weeks
⚠️ CRITICAL: If doing Path A (multi-measure), work started BEFORE your pre-renovation assessment is NOT eligible for rebates. Book your assessment FIRST, then start work.
How we help: We work with certified energy advisors and provide all the documentation you need for successful rebate claims. We’ve helped homeowners navigate this process since the program launched.
Program Extension: While the program is currently scheduled through November 2026, terms and conditions state that rebates can be terminated at any point. Past programs (Canada Greener Homes, GreenON) were both ended suddenly. Don’t delay if you’re considering upgrades.
Canada Greener Homes: Program Closed
Program Status as of January 2026: COMPLETELY CLOSED
Important Update
The Canada Greener Homes Grant program officially closed to new applicants in February 2024. The final deadline for existing participants to submit their documentation was December 31, 2025. As of January 2026, this program is completely closed and no applications or extensions are possible.
❌ This Program is NO LONGER AVAILABLE: If you did not apply before February 2024, you cannot access Canada Greener Homes funding. Do not waste time trying to apply.
What Replaced It?
Good news: The provincial Home Renovation Savings Program (detailed above) offers similar or better rebates than Canada Greener Homes did:
| Upgrade Type | Canada Greener Homes (CLOSED) | Home Renovation Savings (ACTIVE) |
|---|---|---|
| Insulation | Up to $5,000 | Up to $7,700 |
| Heat Pumps | Up to $5,000 | Up to $12,000 |
| Windows & Doors | Up to $5,000 | $100 per opening |
| Smart Thermostats | Up to $100 | $75 |
Which Program Is Right for Your Project?
After helping homeowners navigate these programs, here’s my quick decision guide:
If you need essential repairs (roof, foundation, structural issues):
→ Ontario Renovates (if you meet income/home value requirements)
If you’re doing insulation, windows, or doors:
→ Home Renovation Savings (Multi-Measure Path A)
If you’re installing a heat pump only:
→ Home Renovation Savings (Single-Upgrade Path B – no assessment needed)
If you need accessibility modifications (ramps, accessible bathrooms):
→ Ontario Renovates (up to $5,000 grant that doesn’t require repayment)
If you’re installing smart home technology:
→ Home Renovation Savings ($75 rebate for smart thermostats)
→ See our smart home services
If you’re doing multiple energy upgrades (insulation + windows + heat pump):
→ Home Renovation Savings (Multi-Measure for maximum rebates – potentially $10,000+)
Can You Stack Multiple Programs?
Yes—but you cannot claim the same expense twice.
Example: A homeowner in Georgian Drive qualified for:
- Ontario Renovates: $5,000 for accessibility bathroom modifications
- Home Renovation Savings: $6,000 for insulation and windows (separate from bathroom work)
- Total funding: $11,000
The key is that the bathroom work and insulation/windows are separate expenses, so they qualify under different programs.
Real Costs: What These Programs Actually Cover
Let me show you what these rebates mean in real dollars.
Bathroom Renovation Example
| Expense | Cost | Grant/Rebate |
|---|---|---|
| Accessible walk-in shower | $4,500 | Ontario Renovates |
| Grab bars & wider doorway | $1,800 | Ontario Renovates |
| Non-slip flooring | $2,200 | Ontario Renovates |
| Total Project Cost | $8,500 | Up to $5,000 |
| Your Out-of-Pocket | $3,500 | (after grant) |
That's 59% of the project covered. For many homeowners, that makes the difference between doing the renovation now versus waiting years.
See our bathroom renovation services for more details.
Energy Upgrade Example
| Expense | Cost | Rebate |
|---|---|---|
| Attic insulation upgrade | $4,200 | $4,200 (fully covered) |
| 10 ENERGY STAR windows | $8,000 | $1,000 |
| Air sealing | $800 | $250 |
| Energy assessments (2) | $600 | $600 (fully covered) |
| Total Project Cost | $13,600 | $6,050 |
| Your Out-of-Pocket | $7,550 | (after rebates) |
That's 44% of the project covered—and you'll save on heating costs every month going forward.
How to Maximize Your Rebates
After walking homeowners through these programs, here’s what actually works:
1. Bundle Compatible Projects
Don’t do energy upgrades piecemeal. Plan them together to qualify for Multi-Measure rebates.
Bad approach:
- Year 1: Replace windows ($100/window rebate)
- Year 2: Add insulation (requires new energy assessment, more paperwork)
- Year 3: Get a heat pump (another separate application)
Good approach:
- Do windows + insulation + heat pump in one project
- Single energy assessment ($600 rebate covers the cost)
- Maximum combined rebates (potentially $10,000+)
- One application, one set of paperwork
2. Get Pre-Approval Before Signing Contracts
Both Ontario Renovates and Home Renovation Savings Path A require approval or assessment BEFORE work starts.
What we provide:
- Detailed quotes formatted for grant applications
- A timeline that accommodates energy assessment scheduling
- Technical specifications required by programs
- All contractor certifications (WSIB, liability insurance)
3. Time It Right
Best times to apply:
- Ontario Renovates: Early in the year (limited annual funding, first-come basis – applications may be waitlisted)
- Home Renovation Savings: Anytime through November 2026, but don’t wait – program could close early if funding is exhausted
4. Keep Perfect Documentation
For successful rebate claims, you need:
- Original contractor quotes and invoices
- Detailed receipts with itemized costs
- Proof of payment
- Product specification sheets and certifications
- Before and after photos (date-stamped helps)
- Energy assessment reports (if Path A)
What we provide: Complete documentation packages ready for grant submissions, including all certifications and technical specs required by both programs.
5. Use Qualified Contractors
Both programs require contractors to have:
- WSIB coverage
- Liability insurance
- Proper licensing for specialized work
- Product certifications were required
We’re fully compliant:
- ✅ Licensed and insured for 12+ years
- ✅ WSIB cleared
- ✅ ESA-partnered for electrical safety
- ✅ Experienced with both grant programs
Common Mistakes That Cost Money
I’ve seen homeowners lose thousands by making these mistakes:
Mistake #1: Starting Work Before Approval
What happened: A couple in South Shore started their bathroom renovation before Ontario Renovates approved their application. Their work wasn’t eligible for any funding.
Cost: $12,000 out of pocket, which could have been partially covered.
The fix: Wait for the final approval letter before starting ANY work. It’s hard to delay when you’re excited, but patience saves thousands.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Energy Assessment
What happened: A homeowner wanted to avoid the $400 pre-assessment cost, so they did Path B (single upgrade only). But they were doing windows AND insulation—which would have qualified for $6,000+ in rebates under Path A.
Cost: Lost $6,000 in rebates to save $400 on assessment (which they would have gotten back anyway).
The fix: Do the math. The $600 assessment rebate more than covers the cost, and Path A rebates are much higher for multiple upgrades.
Mistake #3: Using Unlicensed Contractors
What happened: A homeowner hired someone without WSIB coverage to save money. The grant application was rejected because the contractor wasn’t qualified.
Cost: No rebates (lost $4,500), plus the contractor did poor work that needed fixing.
The fix: Use licensed, insured, WSIB-cleared contractors from day one. The small premium you pay is worth it for both the quality of the work and your grant eligibility.
Need Help Navigating These Programs?
After 12+ years of working with Barrie and Simcoe County homeowners, I’ve learned that the most significant barrier isn’t eligibility—it’s just not knowing where to start.
Here’s what we do for you:
- ✅ Free grant consultation: We’ll review your project and tell you which programs you likely qualify for
- ✅ Grant-ready quotes: Detailed, itemized quotes formatted exactly how these programs require
- ✅ Timeline coordination: We work around energy assessment schedules and approval timelines
- ✅ Complete documentation: All certifications, invoices, and technical specs ready for submission
- ✅ Quality work that qualifies: Licensed, insured, WSIB-cleared work that meets all program standards
- ✅ Local experience: We’ve helped Barrie-area homeowners through these programs successfully
Get Your Free Grant Consultation
📞 (705) 910-0106 (call or text)
📧 [email protected]
🌐 Request a Quote Online
We serve all of Simcoe County:
- Barrie (Holly, East Bayfield, South Shore, Allandale, Georgian, Big Bay Point, and all neighborhoods)
- Bradford West Gwillimbury
- Collingwood
- Orillia
- Innisfil, Angus, Oro-Medonte, Springwater, Wasaga Beach
- View all service areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once?
A: Yes, as long as you’re not claiming the same expense twice. You can use Ontario Renovates for bathroom accessibility and Home Renovation Savings for insulation—those are separate projects.
Q: What if I already started my project?
A: Unfortunately, work started before approval, or required assessments aren’t eligible. Contact us anyway—sometimes unfinished portions can still qualify for future funding.
Q: Do I have to pay up front and wait for reimbursement?
A: Depends on the program. Ontario Renovates may pay contractors directly. Home Renovation Savings reimburses you 8-12 weeks after submission. We can work with you on the timing of payments.
Q: What if my income is above the Ontario Renovates limit?
A: You can still use Home Renovation Savings for energy upgrades—it has no income restrictions. For essential repairs, check whether your homeowner’s insurance covers some costs.
Q: Are the rebates taxable income?
A: Generally no—government grants and rebates for home improvements aren’t considered taxable income in Canada. But check with your accountant for your specific situation.
Q: What if I sell my house after getting a grant?
A: Ontario Renovates: You may need to repay the unforgiven portion based on how many years you lived there. After 10 years, it’s fully forgiven.
Home Renovation Savings: No repayment required. The rebate is yours to keep.
Q: Can I do the work myself (DIY)?
A: Ontario Renovates: Some materials-only work may be eligible, but licensed electricians must do all electrical work. Check with the County.
Home Renovation Savings: Work must be completed by qualified contractors to ensure proper installation and program compliance.
Q: How long does it take to receive rebates/funding?
A: Ontario Renovates: 4-8 weeks after work completion and final documentation submission.
Home Renovation Savings: 8-12 weeks after submitting the final assessment (if Path A) and all documentation.
Q: Will I definitely get approved?
A: Ontario Renovates: First-come, first-served with limited annual funding. If you meet the eligibility requirements and apply early in the year, your chances are good. Applications may be placed on a waitlist if funding is depleted.
Home Renovation Savings: All eligible applicants receive rebates as long as they complete qualifying work properly with required documentation.
Important Disclaimers
A few things you should know:
- Grant programs have limited funding and may close early if funds are exhausted
- Eligibility requirements and rebate amounts can change—always verify current details on official websites before applying.
- This guide is for information only—it does not constitute financial or legal advice.e
- We are not affiliated with government program,s but can help with qualified contractor work.
- Rebate processing times are estimates and may vary
- Income and home value limits for Ontario Renovates change annually—verify current limits when applying
- Home Renovation Savings program terms state rebates can be terminated at any point—apply early if planning upgrades
The bottom line: These programs exist NOW, but don’t wait forever. Past programs have ended suddenly. Verify current details, then act.
Official Program Resources
Ontario Renovates (Simcoe County)
🌐 Website: simcoe.ca/ontariorenovates
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 705-725-7215 ext. 1119
📍 Office: County of Simcoe Administration Centre, 1110 Highway 26, Midhurst, ON
Home Renovation Savings Program
🌐 Website: HomeRenovationSavings.ca
🌐 Save on Energy: SaveOnEnergy.ca
📞 Phone: 1-888-516-3791
⏰ Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET
Canada Greener Homes (CLOSED)
🌐 Website: Natural Resources Canada
📞 Phone: 1-833-674-8282
⚠️ Note: Program closed December 31, 2025. No new applications or extensions are possible.
The Bottom Line
Here’s what I tell every homeowner who asks about these programs:
If you’re planning a renovation anyway, you’d be leaving money on the table by not checking if you qualify for funding. We’re talking thousands of dollars in real money.
The application process isn’t complicated once you understand it. And for most homeowners, the biggest hurdle is just getting started.
That’s where we come in. We’ve helped homeowners successfully navigate these programs. We know what documentation is needed, how to format quotes, what timelines to expect, and how to avoid the mistakes that cost people money.
Whether you need:
- Bathroom accessibility modifications
- Essential plumbing or electrical repairs
- Energy-efficient upgrades and insulation
- Accessible flooring
- Interior improvements
- Smart home installations
- General home repairs
…there’s a good chance grant funding can help offset your costs.
Ready to find out what you qualify for?
📞 (705) 910-0106 – Call or text for a free grant consultation
📧 [email protected] – Email us your project details
🌐 Book Your Free Consultation – Fill out our online form
We’re here to help Barrie and Simcoe County homeowners make their renovation dollars stretch further.
[IMAGE: Before and after collage showing successful grant-funded projects]
Related Articles
Want to learn more about home improvements in Simcoe County?
- Barrie Home Maintenance Cost Guide 2025
- The Complete Barrie Homeowner’s Maintenance Checklist
- When to Restain Your Deck in Barrie’s Climate
- Winter Home Improvement Projects Barrie Homeowners Can Tackle
- 2026 Home Renovation Cost Guide for Barrie
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Following review: April 2026
Information accurate for Simcoe County, Ontario, Canada
All program details verified through official government sources
Written by Wallet Friendly Handyman—12+ years serving Barrie and area
Important Note: While we’ve thoroughly researched all information in this guide, government programs can change at any time. Always verify current eligibility requirements, funding amounts, and deadlines on official program websites before making decisions or starting work.
