Updated: July 3, 2025
We often hear from homeowners who are worried about high radon levels but can’t afford the cost of mitigation. The good news is that there’s help available. The Homeowner Repair Program from Housing NB may cover some of the cost of radon mitigation, along with other critical home repairs.
This blog explains how the program works, who can apply, what kinds of repairs are covered (including radon gas mitigation), how much financial help is available, and how to get started. Whether you’re looking for help with a leaking roof, accessibility upgrades, or small adaptations to live independently as you age, you can skip ahead to the section that fits your situation best.
What is the Homeowner Repair Program?
The Homeowner Repair Program offers financial assistance to help people stay in their homes safely. It is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of New Brunswick, and it is delivered by Housing NB.
The program can help cover the cost of:
- Fixing serious issues like roof leaks, unsafe wiring, or plumbing problems
- Making homes more accessible for people with disabilities
- Making small changes so seniors can live more safely and independently
- Addressing health hazards like radon gas or pest infestations
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify for help through the program if:
- You own and live in your home
- Your household income is below the limit for your region and family size
- Your home needs major repairs or you need health or accessibility-related modifications
- Your home has an assessed value under $275,000
The $275,000 property value cap is current as of July 3, 2025. It was increased from $175,000 in August 2024, so the program reaches more families.
There are also options available for renters and landlords making accessibility improvements, and for seniors aged 65 or older.
What Types of Repairs Are Covered?
The program can help pay for a wide range of repairs and upgrades, including:
Major home repairs:
- Roofs, foundations, floors, and structural issues
- Plumbing, including wells, water tanks, hot water heaters, and septic systems
- Electrical systems that meet safety standards
- Heating systems that can maintain a safe indoor temperature
- Repairs related to fire safety, such as new smoke or carbon monoxide alarms
Accessibility upgrades:
- Ramps and handrails
- Wider hallways or doorways
- Easier-to-use handles and switches
- Grab bars and shower seats
Senior-friendly adaptations:
- Better lighting and storage
- Lower countertops or reachable shelves
- Lever-style handles on doors
- Small changes that help with daily activities and support independent living
Health-related issues:
- Radon Gas Mitigation Repairs (radon is a cancer-causing gas found in many New Brunswick homes)
- Pest removal and prevention
- Protection from water leaks and mold
How Much Financial Help Can You Get?
Help comes in the form of a loan. Depending on your income and the cost of the work, part or all of that loan may be forgivable, meaning you don’t have to pay it back.
Here are the maximum amounts available:
- Up to $15,000 for major homeowner repairs
- Up to $20,000 if you need both repairs and accessibility modifications
- Up to $10,000 for landlords making accessibility upgrades
- Up to $5,000 for seniors making small home adaptations
If any part of the loan is repayable, it comes with a low provincial interest rate and can be paid off over a period of up to 15 years.
Special Program for Seniors
If you are 65 or older and have difficulty with daily activities due to aging, you may qualify for the Homeowner Repair Program for Seniors. This version of the program is designed to help with small adaptations that support independent living. You can apply even if you rent your home, if your landlord agrees to the changes.
Examples of eligible adaptations include:
- Ramps for entering and exiting the home
- Handrails on stairs or in hallways
- Shower seats or bathtub grab bars
- Easy-to-use handles and light switches
The loan for seniors is forgivable over seven years and is based on the cost of materials and labour.
How to Apply
To apply or find out if you qualify, contact your regional Housing NB office by calling 1-833-733-7835. A representative can explain the income limits for your area and help guide you through the next steps.
To see the full list of eligible repairs, including those related to radon, pests, plumbing, fire safety, and more, you can read the official Homeowner Repair Program document here: GNB – Homeowner Repair Program.
Many people in New Brunswick live in homes that have high levels of radon gas, but not everyone has the funds to cover the costs of radon gas mitigation. This program exists to help low-income homeowners, seniors, and people with disabilities stay safe and comfortable in their homes. If you think you might qualify, it’s worth making the call to learn more.
If you’ve tested your home for radon and the results are high, don’t panic – and don’t wait. Support is available.