Planning a window or door replacement project to improve the energy efficiency of your house?
While this home renovation is definitely a good idea and will raise your property value, the investments required are significant.
Therefore, many Vancouver homeowners strive to claim maximum government rebates to help finance their replacement projects. But which ones are currently available in B.C.? And how much can you save by applying for these programs?
Ecoline Windows Vancouver, a licensed B.C. contractor, shares their tips on how to claim the maximum rebates for your next renovation project.
CleanBC income qualified rebates for windows and doors
The B.C. government issued the CleanBC program to help homeowners better insulate their houses and boost overall energy efficiency.
Applying for the program allows homeowners to claim a rebate of up to $9,500 for their replacement project with a maximum of $950 per window or door.
The rebate amount is calculated based on the combined income of all adults and the number of people (including both adults and children) living in your home. If the overall income is less than Income Level 1, you are eligible for up to 95% of upgrade costs. If the income is less than Income Level 2, homeowners can get up to 60% upgrade costs coverage.
For example, a family of 4 with an overall income of less than $79,147 can expect financial help that covers up to 95% of their costs. The same family with a combined income of $103,880 will receive 60% of windows/doors replacement coverage. See here for more detailed information regarding income levels.
Canada Greener Homes grant for windows and doors
The Canada Greener Homes grant is one of Vancouver's most popular and easy-to-receive rebates.
To claim this rebate, homeowners need to replace their current windows with new ENERGY STAR-rated models. Each rough opening (window or door) is eligible for a grant of up to $250, with the maximum rebate amounting to $5,000.
In order to be qualified for this grant:
- Only Canadian windows and doors are allowed;
- The products must meet or exceed certain energy specifications;
- Do not remove the ENERGY STAR labels from your windows and doors until after your post-retrofit evaluation.
Which windows and doors qualify for the CleanBC and Canada Greener Homes programs?
To apply for these rebates, your windows should meet certain criteria regarding energy specifications and other construction aspects.
- Only replacement windows and doors for the home renovation project. Units for new construction do not qualify;
- Installation of skylights is not reimbursed.;
- New windows and doors must be registered with certification bodies, such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Intertek Canada, etc.;
- Only one window or door per rough opening;
- Energy-efficient windows and exterior doors installed by a registered contractor. DIY installations are not reimbursed;
- Your new windows and front doors must have a U-factor of 1.22 (W/m2-K) or less.
- Only Energy Star-rated units are allowed.
How do I apply for maximum rebates?
First, you should carefully review the requirements to see if you and your home are eligible for the programs.
The next step is deciding on the company to deal with to complete your replacement project. Only registered B.C. contractors, like Ecoline Windows Vancouver, are allowed to complete your renovation.
To get the maximum financial support, your new windows or doors should not only meet the basic energy specifications but exceed them, having a U-factor of 1.05 W/m2·K (0.18 Btu/h·ft.2·°F) or lower OR an Energy Rating (ER) of 40. These windows and doors are recognized as the Most Efficient Models by Energy Star.
Can I apply for rebates simultaneously?
The short answer is yes. The CleanBC rebates can be added to your Canada Green Homes Grant funding.
Your home should undergo strict inspections regarding its energy efficiency and insulation, so the consultation of a registered contractor is required before applying for both grants.
Remember that the total rebate amount can not exceed the cost indicated in the invoice for your window or door replacement project.
Should I apply for the CleanBC and Canada Greener Homes rebates?
Absolutely! This is a top-notch opportunity to install energy-efficient replacement doors and windows with a lifetime warranty and save sufficient funds to invest in additional home renovations.
Before you start the process, make sure to review your eligibility, find a reliable licensed contractor to do the installation and choose windows that qualify for maximum government rebates.
