Program Overview
What is BC RAHA?
BC RAHA (Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations) is a provincial grant providing up to $20,000 lifetime per household for home modifications that support independence. Your clients qualify if: household income under $134,140, liquid assets under $100,000, and home value under regional limits. A permanent disability or age-related loss of ability (12+ months) affecting daily independence is required.
Grant, not loan
RAHA is a direct rebate—clients receive funds after work is complete. No repayment required.
Assessment rebate included
BC Housing rebates up to $300 for OT/PT assessments—even if the client decides not to proceed with modifications.
Stacks with tax credits
Clients can combine RAHA with federal HATC ($3,000 max) and BC Senior's Credit ($1,000 max) for up to $24,000 benefit on a $30,000 project.
2026 Vancouver Island Thresholds
Income & Assets
- • Income: $134,140 (province-wide)
- • Liquid assets: $100,000
- • RRSPs, primary home excluded
Home Value Limits
- • Victoria/CRD: $1,074,999
- • Nanaimo/Central: $824,999
- • Comox/North: $749,999
Assessment Requirements
What BC Housing needs from you.
For major modifications (walk-in tubs, stair lifts, barrier-free showers, projects approaching $20,000), BC Housing requires an in-home assessment from a licensed OT or PT.
Client observation
In-person or virtual assessment of functional limitations
Disability documentation
Nature of disability/loss of ability and how it affects daily living
Duration statement
Confirmation that condition is expected to last 12+ months
Specific recommendations
Modifications recommended and how they address functional needs
Assessor credentials
Your OT/PT license number and professional designation
Minor Modifications
Documentation
Assessment documentation checklist.
Your assessment report should include the following for BC Housing approval:
Client identification
Full name, address, date of birth
Assessment date and type
In-person or virtual, with date of observation
Functional limitations
Specific ADL/IADL challenges observed or reported
Medical condition
Diagnosis or description of disability/loss of ability
Duration statement
"Expected to last 12 months or longer" or "permanent"
Specific recommendations
Each modification and how it addresses functional needs
Your credentials
Name, designation (OT/PT), license number, signature, date
Common Rejection Reasons
- • Missing duration statement (must specify 12+ months)
- • Generic recommendations without functional justification
- • Unsigned or undated reports
- • Missing license/credential information
Modifications
Common RAHA-eligible modifications.
Reference guide for Vancouver Island pricing and OT assessment requirements.
Bathroom
| Modification | Typical Cost | OT Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Barrier-free shower | $6,000–$12,000 | Yes |
| Walk-in tub | $8,000–$15,000 | Yes |
| Grab bars | $150–$400/bar | Recommended |
| Raised toilet | $400–$800 | Recommended |
Mobility
| Modification | Typical Cost | OT Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Stair lift | $3,500–$15,000 | Yes |
| Wheelchair ramp | $1,500–$8,000 | Recommended |
| Door widening | $800–$2,500/door | Recommended |
| Threshold ramps | $100–$600 | Recommended |
Kitchen
| Modification | Typical Cost | OT Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Lowered counters | $3,000–$8,000 | Yes |
| Pull-out shelving | $500–$2,000 | Recommended |
| Accessible cabinets | $2,000–$6,000 | Yes |
Costs are Vancouver Island averages as of 2026. Actual costs vary by contractor, home conditions, and project complexity.
Client Referrals
Connecting clients with contractors.
After completing your assessment, clients need two contractor quotes for their RAHA application. Our directory features Vancouver Island contractors who understand RAHA requirements.
Vetted contractors
All contractors in our directory have documented accessibility experience, verified insurance ($2M+ liability), and commit to free, no-pressure RAHA quotes.
RAHA-compliant quotes
Contractors provide itemized quotes with PST/GST breakdown, detailed scope, materials, and labour—formatted for BC Housing approval.
Regional coverage
Contractors serving Victoria, Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley, Comox Valley, and Campbell River—including rural properties.
Share with your clients:
"After your assessment, you'll need two contractor quotes for your RAHA application. Island Home Access has a directory of vetted contractors on Vancouver Island who offer free RAHA quotes."
View contractor directoryFor OT Practices
List your practice in our directory.
We maintain a directory of OTs and PTs who provide RAHA assessments on Vancouver Island. Listing is free for licensed professionals.
What You Get
- • Profile page with your services and contact info
- • Visibility to RAHA applicants in your region
- • Direct inquiries from clients seeking assessments
Requirements
- • Active BC OT or PT license
- • Experience with home accessibility assessments
- • Service area on Vancouver Island
Last updated: January 2026. RAHA requirements may change—always confirm current guidelines with BC Housing.