Energy-Efficient Home Rebates in Canada: How to Get Up to 25% Back on Your Mortgage Insurance

Most Canadians don’t realize they can get paid for going green. If you’re buying a home, there’s a little-known way to save thousands off your mortgage insurance: energy-efficient home rebates.

If you’re considering a new build or major renovation, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.

What Is an Energy-Efficient Mortgage Rebate?

When you buy a home with less than 20% down, you’re required to purchase default mortgage insurance from CMHC, Sagen, or Canada Guaranty. This premium can add thousands to your mortgage.

Here’s the good news: if your home meets certain energy-efficiency standards, you may qualify for a partial refund — up to 25% of that premium. That’s money straight back in your pocket.

But here’s the catch: this isn’t automatic. Unless your mortgage broker knows about it and your builder provides the right documentation, you could miss out.

How to Qualify

🔨 New Builds
Ask your builder: “Will this home have an EnerGuide rating or certification?”
If yes, request a copy. That certificate is your ticket to the rebate.

🏡 Existing Homes with Major Renovations
You can also qualify if:

• The home undergoes significant retrofits (insulation, windows, HVAC, etc.)

• You complete EnerGuide pre- and post-renovation assessments

• The final rating meets thresholds

📄 Paperwork Required
No certificate? No rebate. Even if the home is efficient, documentation is mandatory.

Eligible Energy Certifications

Most insurers accept:

• EnerGuide

• ENERGY STAR® for New Homes

• Built Green® Canada (Silver, Gold, Platinum)

• R-2000 certified homes

• Net Zero & Net Zero Ready

Always ask your builder or energy advisor which certification applies — and get documentation.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t leave this money on the table. Ask your builder about certifications and speak to your broker about how to start the rebate process.

If you want to see if the property you are purchasing or have purchased recently qualifies, give me a call or shoot me an email and let’s see if we can get you some money back in your pocket.