If you are considering adding a small or tiny home as a secondary residential unit (an Accessory Dwelling Unit, ADU), there is funding available to help offset some of the costs!

The City of St. Catharines offers an incentive program, the Accessory Dwelling Unit Program, which is a grant program offering up to 70% of eligible project costs to a maximum of $80,000 for the construction of an exterior accessory dwelling unit(s).

The Federal government has added new refinancing specifically for homeowners looking to add a secondary suite (ADU) to their property. Announced on October 8th, 2024, this new refinancing product will allow for a homeowner to access up to 90% of the value of their property (which includes the value added by a secondary suite or ADU), with a maximum property value limit of $2 million, and a maximum amortization of 30 years. This refinancing program was launched January 15th, 2025.

If you are looking to build an ADU or tiny home on your property for a senior or family member with a disability, there is a tax credit available, the Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit (MHRTC). This tax credit is for 15% of eligible expenses or up to $50,000 and would be claimed on line 45355 of your T1 income tax and benefit return for the renovation period for the tax year.