CMHC Guidelines for Developers:
A Comprehensive Knowledge Base
Introduction
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is a government-backed organization that plays a pivotal role in supporting the development of accessible, affordable, and sustainable housing across Canada. Developers looking to benefit from CMHC programs must understand the requirements and best practices that enable them to design and build projects that meet high standards for accessibility, universal design, and energy efficiency.
Key Benefits of CMHC’s Select Program
Preferred Financing Terms – Reduced mortgage loan insurance premiums and access to lower interest rates for eligible projects.
Enhanced Marketability – Properties designed with accessibility and sustainability in mind appeal to a broader audience, increasing demand and occupancy rates.
Regulatory Compliance & Future-Proofing – Meeting CMHC’s accessibility and sustainability standards ensures long-term compliance with evolving regulations and future housing demands.
Government and Investor Support – Sustainable and inclusive housing projects are more attractive to investors, municipalities, and government funding programs.
Higher Tenant Satisfaction & Retention – Developments incorporating universal design provide better living conditions, reducing tenant turnover and increasing long-term stability.
Potential for Additional Incentives – Developers may qualify for further financial assistance, grants, or tax incentives by exceeding minimum accessibility and sustainability requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
The project must be a multi-unit residential development.
Compliance with CMHC’s accessibility and universal design standards.
A commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient building practices.
Submission of required attestations and documentation confirming adherence to program guidelines.
program types:
1. Accessibility & Barrier-Free Design
Level 1
All units within the project must be 100% visitable.
Common areas must be completely barrier-free, meeting CSA Standard B651:23.
At least 15% of units must be accessible or follow universal design principles.
OR the project must obtain a Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification with a score of 60-79%.
Level 2
All units within the project must be 100% visitable.
Common areas must be completely barrier-free, meeting CSA Standard B651:23.
At least 15% of units must be accessible AND 85% must be universal design.
OR 100% of units must be universal design or accessible.
OR the project must obtain a Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification Gold (80% or higher).
3. Affordability
Affordability:
Community and Affordable housing
Mixed used market/Affordable housing: Rents for at least 30% of the units must be less than 80% of the Median Market rent and maintained for a min. of 20 years
3. Sustainability
Developers should consider:
Energy-efficient HVAC systems and solar energy solutions.
Low-flow plumbing fixtures to reduce water consumption.
Smart building technologies to optimize energy usage.
Durable, eco-friendly materials that minimize environmental impact.
Step-by-Step Process for Developers
1. Planning & Design
Meet with Stamp and Hammer to review CMHC’s accessibility and sustainability requirements at the project’s outset.
Stamp and Hammer will help through the site planning phase to ensure the site planning integrates the desired CMHC program
Stamp and Hammer will consider universal design from the beginning to avoid costly retrofits later.
3. Construction & Compliance
Implement accessibility, universal and sustainable design elements.
Conduct mid-construction audits to ensure compliance with attested criteria.
Maintain documentation for potential CMHC reviews and impact reporting.
2. Application & Attestation
Provide supporting documentation, including detailed design plans and compliance reports.
Indicate whether the project meets Level 1 or Level 2 accessibility requirements.
Submit a signed Accessibility Criteria Attestation
4. Final Approval & Benefits
Submit post-construction verification to confirm the project meets CMHC requirements.
Obtain final certification
Receive preferred financing rates and increased eligibility for further CMHC programs.
