The Saskatchewan government is introducing an incentive to help fund new secondary rental suites in single-family homes. Homeowners could receive up to $35,000 toward the costs of building a separate dwelling unit in their homes, backyards or laneways.

“Saskatchewan is growing at its fastest pace in more than a century and we need housing stock across a wide range of communities and price ranges,” says Donna Harpauer, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier. “A secondary suite can help homeowners with the cost of a mortgage while providing affordable options for renters.”

To qualify, a unit must have its own dedicated entrance and a full kitchen and bathroom. The incentive will cover a maximum of 35 per cent of eligible costs, including architectural, engineering and construction services, building materials, mechanical/electrical/plumbing systems and standard appliances. Application forms are not yet available, but projects initiated between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2026 will qualify.

The host dwelling must be the homeowner’s primary residence and only one incentive per home will be allocated. Homeowners will also be responsible for obtaining all the necessary local permits and approvals for the new suites.

“Secondary suites will add much-needed rental supply for the province,” maintains Cameron Choquette, chief executive officer of the Saskatchewan Landlord Association. “Our association looks forward to supporting new rental housing providers that arise as a result of this incentive.”