How do I know if my home is substantially reconstructed?

Effective April 01, 2020, the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program (Program) considers “substantially reconstructed” homes as new construction projects and therefore not eligible for the Program’s renovation rebates. This is in alignment with the Homeowner Protection Act’s definition of a new home and BC Housing’s definition of “substantially reconstructed”. Under the Homeowner Protection Act (Act) a home that has been substantially reconstructed is a new home for the purposes of the Act. BC Housing defines substantially reconstructed as a home that has been changed so 25% or less of the original structure above foundation remains, or 75% or more of the reconstructed home is new.

For example, if the foundation remains but more than 75% of the structure above is new, the home is substantially reconstructed and would not be eligible for rebates offered by the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program. A re-build after a large house fire would often be considered substantially reconstructed.

A large majority of renovation projects do not fall under substantially reconstructed. If permits and licensing is required during your renovation project, contact BC Housing for more information.

For full information on the definition, scenario examples, and New Home Registration Form requirements see BC Housing’s Regulatory Bulletin No 6: Substantially Reconstructed Homes and the Homeowner Project Act [195KB PDF]  and visit the Homeowner Protection Act and Regulations page on BC Housing’s website.

If you are unsure whether your home is considered substantially reconstructed and therefore not eligible for rebates under the Program, please contact the Licensing and Consumer Services branch of BC Housing at licensinginfo@bchousing.org with the details of your project. The BC Housing Bulletin No 6 linked above outlines the specifics that must be addressed in the email.

Please note: CleanBC Energy Coaches cannot determine whether your home has been substantially reconstructed. Final determination of your home’s project is decided by BC Housing.