Hamilton
Basement Grant 2026
UP TO $40,000 TOWARD YOUR
LEGAL BASEMENT APARTMENT,
SECONDARY SUITE OR ADU
Learn how Hamilton homeowners may qualify for up to $40,000 in funding toward a legal basement apartment, secondary suite, or additional dwelling unit.
What Is the Hamilton Basement Grant?
The Hamilton Basement Grant is part of the City's Additional Dwelling Unit and Multi-Plex Housing Incentive Program funded through the Housing Accelerator Fund.
The program may provide funding equal to 70% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum of $40,000 per eligible unit. Eligible costs may include design fees, permit fees, and construction costs related to creating a legal basement apartment, secondary suite, or additional dwelling unit.
How Much Funding Is Available?
The current program provides:
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Up to 70% of eligible costs
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Maximum funding of $40,000 per unit
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Initial advance payment available
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Final payment after occupancy permit issuance
Funding amounts and eligibility requirements are determined by the City of Hamilton and may change without notice.
What Projects May Qualify?
Projects may include:
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Legal basement apartments
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Secondary suites
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Additional dwelling units (ADUs)
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Garden suites
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Small multiplex developments
Eligibility requirements are established by the City of Hamilton.
Do I Need A Building Permit?
Yes. Legal basement apartments require permits and inspections.
The City of Hamilton currently requires applicants to have a building permit issued to be eligible for the incentive program. Homeowners should review current program requirements and application timing before starting construction.
How the Hamilton Basement Grant Process Works
Step 1
Determine whether your project may qualify.
Step 2
Develop plans and obtain required drawings.
Step 3
Apply for the City's program and building permit.
Step 4
Complete construction and required inspections.
Step 5
Receive occupancy approval and final grant processing, subject to City requirements.
How Chermark Renovations Can Help
At Chermark Renovations, we help homeowners through the entire legal basement apartment process, including:
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Design coordination
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Permit applications
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Construction
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Inspections
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Building code compliance
While we do not administer the grant program, we can help homeowners understand the construction and permit requirements involved in creating a legal basement apartment.
How Much Does a Legal Basement Apartment Cost in Hamilton?
A legal basement apartment can vary significantly depending on the existing layout of the home, required upgrades, and permit requirements. Some homeowners may qualify for funding through the Hamilton Basement Grant, which may help offset eligible costs.
If you're considering a legal basement suite, Chermark Renovations can provide a consultation and project estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hamilton Basement Grant available for existing homes?
In many cases, yes. Existing homes may qualify when creating a new legal secondary suite or additional dwelling unit, subject to City requirements.
Can the grant be used for a legal basement apartment?
Legal basement apartments are one of the most common types of additional dwelling units that may qualify. Eligibility is determined by the City.
Can Chermark Renovations apply for the grant for me?
The application is submitted by the property owner. We can provide estimates, permit assistance, and construction services that may be required as part of the process.
Chermark Renovations is a licensed and insured contractor serving Hamilton, Binbrook, Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Caledonia, Grimsby, Smithville, Hagersville, Dunnville, and surrounding communities.