Multigenerational Living: Accessibility Made Affordable

For Ontario homeowners adding a legal secondary suite or "in-law flat," the federal Multigenerational Home Renovation Tax Credit (MHRTC) provides a $7,500 refundable tax credit. Because a home elevator is a permanent accessibility fixture required for many seniors or disabled family members to live independently, the installation cost is fully eligible. When you stack this with the $3,000 HATC, families can secure $10,500 in total tax relief while significantly increasing their property value.

We’re seeing a massive trend across the Waterloo Region and the GTA toward "multigenerational" living. Whether it’s building a basement suite for parents or a garden suite in the yard, families are staying together.

The biggest hurdle for these projects is usually mobility. If your parents are moving in, stairs are the enemy. The good news is that the government is now helping pick up the tab for accessibility through the MHRTC.

Unlocking $7,500 in Credits

The MHRTC offers a $7,500 refundable credit for building a self-contained secondary suite. Since an elevator is a permanent, enduring upgrade to the home, it fits the criteria perfectly.

Because of the Sabre Aurora's compact design, it’s a much simpler addition to a secondary suite than older, more complex elevator systems. We work directly with your contractor to make sure the installation is seamless and that all the paperwork is ready for your tax claim.

A Locally Supported Investment

Based right here in Ontario, we know the local building codes and the realities of Ontario construction. When you choose Sabre, you’re getting a system that matches the luxury of your home’s custom wood finishes—not a sterile commercial lift. You get a furniture-grade addition that makes life easier for your family and your property much more valuable.

Credit Type	Maximum Savings	Sabre Elevator Eligibility
MHRTC (Federal)	$7,500 Refundable.	Fully eligible as a permanent accessibility upgrade.
HATC (Federal)	$3,000 Non-refundable.	Fully eligible for seniors or DTC-eligible adults.
Total Savings	$10,500+	Stacking these credits makes luxury mobility affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the elevator have to be inside the secondary suite? It must provide direct access to the suite for the senior or disabled individual to qualify as an eligible construction expense under the MHRTC.

Can I claim this if I’m doing a major renovation instead of a new build? Yes, as long as the renovation results in a self-contained secondary unit for a qualifying family member.

Is there a minimum age for the senior? The qualifying individual must be 65 years of age or older at the end of the tax year.