Accessible Home Modifications in Cowichan Valley
Duncan, Lake Cowichan, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake. Contractors who serve rural properties and understand RAHA. Up to $20,000 in rebates.
Find Cowichan ContractorsCowichan Valley falls under the Central Vancouver Island RAHA threshold of $824,999 for home value. The region includes Duncan, North Cowichan, Lake Cowichan, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake, Mill Bay, Chemainus, and Crofton. Rural properties and older homes are common—both benefit significantly from accessibility modifications.
$824,999
Home value limit for Cowichan Valley
BC Housing 2026
$20,000
Maximum RAHA rebate
BC Housing
$300
OT assessment rebate
BC Housing
180 days
To complete work after approval
BC Housing
The Context
Rural accessibility challenges
Cowichan Valley has more acreages and rural properties than anywhere else on South Island. That means long driveways, uneven terrain, and homes built without accessibility in mind. It also means contractors need trucks, not city cars. Our Cowichan directory features contractors who actually serve rural properties—not just the ones who say they do until they see your address.
Why This Matters
Rural property experience
Contractors who bring their own equipment and don't charge extra for gravel driveways or properties outside town limits.
Older home expertise
Cowichan has farmhouses and heritage homes from the early 1900s. These need contractors who understand old framing and plumbing.
Coverage from Mill Bay to Lake Cowichan
Our contractors serve the entire valley—not just Duncan. Actually serve, not theoretically serve.
Same $824,999 limit as Nanaimo
Lower than Victoria's threshold, making more Cowichan homes eligible for RAHA.
Services & Pricing
What you can get done
Grab bars
RAHAAnchored into old-growth fir studs (common in valley farmhouses).
$150–$400 per bar
Exterior ramps
RAHAEssential for rural homes with porch steps. Wood or aluminum.
$1,500–$8,000
Bathroom conversions
RAHAWalk-in tubs or barrier-free showers. Septic considerations for rural properties.
$6,000–$15,000
Stair lifts
RAHAMany valley homes are multi-level. Straight and curved options.
$3,500–$15,000
Door widening
RAHAOld farmhouse doorways are often 28-30". Wheelchairs need 36".
$800–$2,500 per door
Pathway improvements
RAHAGravel to concrete, uneven to level. From parking to entrance.
$2,000–$6,000
Local Knowledge
Valley-specific considerations
Cowichan Valley has unique challenges: septic systems (bathroom mods need to consider load), well water (some contractors won't touch plumbing), and winter road conditions (Lake Cowichan gets snow when Duncan doesn't). Properties near Cowichan Lake also deal with seasonal access issues. Make sure your contractor knows the valley before they quote.
Common Questions
FAQ
Do contractors serve Lake Cowichan?
Yes, several contractors in our directory serve Lake Cowichan and the western valley. Some charge travel fees for properties more than 30 minutes from Duncan—ask upfront. Most quote the same rate valley-wide.
What's the RAHA home value limit for Cowichan Valley?
Cowichan Valley uses the Central Vancouver Island threshold of $824,999. This applies to Duncan, North Cowichan, Lake Cowichan, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake, Mill Bay, Chemainus, and Crofton.
Can old farmhouses qualify for accessibility modifications?
Yes. Older homes often need modifications most—narrow doorways, step-up showers, steep stairs. RAHA doesn't care about home age or style, just owner eligibility. Heritage designation doesn't disqualify you, though some modifications may need heritage approval.
Are there OTs who serve rural Cowichan?
Yes. Private OTs will travel to rural properties (some charge mileage). Island Health's Home Health program also serves the valley. Check our OT directory for Cowichan Valley providers.
Find Cowichan Valley contractors
Contractors who serve Duncan, Lake Cowichan, and everywhere in between. Free RAHA-compliant quotes.
View Cowichan Contractors