Were you planning to renovate your home thanks to the Rénovation Québec program? You're not the only one who was taken by surprise.

Since April 1, 2025, the Société d'habitation du Québec (SHQ) has temporarily suspended the Rénovation Québec program in several municipalities, including Longueuil. This break left around 120 files pending on the South Shore only.

For homeowners who were counting on this financial assistance-especially modest-income households, who account for 15 % of applicants-this is a major blow. You had planned your work, maybe even met with contractors. And now you're wondering how to finance your project.

But here's the good news: the Rénovation Québec program wasn't the only assistance available. Several other subsidy programs remain active in 2025, and some offer even more generous amounts depending on the type of work.

At Cartago Construction, we help our customers navigate the sometimes complicated world of renovation grants. With over 10 years' experience in residential construction in Quebec, we know all the programs available and exactly how to help you get the financing you need.

In this article, we'll explain why the program has been suspended, what alternatives are available to you, and how we can help you carry out your work in spite of everything.

Why was the Rénovation Québec program suspended in 2025?

To understand the situation and plan your next steps, it's important to know what happened with the Rénovation Québec program.

The suspension was announced at the end of March 2025, taking immediate effect on April 1. It created a lot of confusion among homeowners in Longueuil and neighboring municipalities.

Official reasons for the program's hiatus

According to the official SHQ press release, the suspension is linked to a problem of shared funding between the provincial and municipal levels.

The Rénovation Québec program operated on a 50/50 model: Québec paid half, participating municipalities paid the other half. But several cities reported budgetary difficulties in maintaining their contributions.

In Longueuil specifically, the city had allocated $2.3 million for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. But with demand exploding-an increase of 22 % over 2023-the budget was used up faster than expected.

The SHQ has therefore decided to put the program on pause to «re-evaluate funding arrangements and ensure long-term viability». In their press release, they mention that a relaunch is envisaged for 2026, but no specific date has been confirmed.

The debate continues in Quebec City. Some Montérégie MNAs are calling for a rapid resumption of the program, while others suggest redirecting funds to existing provincial programs such as Rénoclimat.

For you, a homeowner in Longueuil, this means one thing: counting on the return of the Rénovation Québec program in the short term isn't a reliable strategy.

Concrete impact for Longueuil homeowners

The figures speak for themselves. In Longueuil, some 70 % of applications to the Rénovation Québec program came from older sectors: Vieux-Longueuil, parts of Saint-Hubert, and neighborhoods near the river.

Why? Because these areas have older homes in need of major repairs-roofing, foundations, poor insulation, outdated electrical systems.

The Rénovation Québec program was particularly popular because it covered these types of structural work, with subsidies of up to 15,000 $ for low-income households and up to 10,000 $ for moderate-income households.

The suspension hit hard those owners who had already started the process. Some had received pre-approval, others were waiting for their turn on the list. All now find themselves having to rethink their plans.

For families with modest incomes, this is particularly difficult. Many have been putting off essential work for years, waiting to qualify for financial assistance. The suspension forces them to look for other solutions or delay their renovations even longer.

But here's what you need to understand: even though the Rénovation Québec program is on hiatus, other doors are still open. You still have access to substantial assistance for your work.

💬 Need to evaluate which work to prioritize or postpone? Request a free inspection with Cartago Construction-on hand to help you make the right choices.

What are the alternatives to the Rénovation Québec program?

Now that we understand the situation, let's talk solutions. There are several subsidy programs active in 2025 that can finance your renovations.

The key is to choose the right program for the type of work you're planning. Each program has its own eligibility criteria and covers different types of renovations.

The Rénoclimat energy efficiency program

If your work involves insulation, heating or energy efficiency in general, Rénoclimat is probably your best option.

It is currently the most popular provincial program. In the first quarter of 2025, Rénoclimat received over 1,800 new applications in Quebec, of which approximately 12 % came from the Montérégie region.

How it works:

Step 1: You have an energy audit of your home carried out by an accredited consultant. It costs about 300 $, but this amount is reimbursed in your grants.

Step 2: The advisor identifies the improvements to be made and estimates the potential energy savings.

Step 3: You work with an RBQ-certified contractor (like Cartago Construction).

Step 4: A post-work inspection confirms that everything has been done correctly.

Step 5: You receive your refund, which can be up to 2,500 $ depending on the work carried out.

Types of work covered:

• Roof, wall and foundation insulation
• Replacing energy-efficient windows and doors
• Improved ventilation and airtightness
• Installation of an air exchanger (HRV/ERV)

The program is managed by Transition énergétique Québec (TEQ) in partnership with Hydro-Québec. It's a well-established, reliable program that will continue to exist for years to come.

An important advantage: Rénoclimat is often combined with other programs, allowing you to accumulate subsidies.

The LogisVert and Chauffez vert programs for ecological systems

If you're planning to replace your heating system with a more environmentally-friendly option, these two provincial programs will be of interest to you.

Heat green offers generous subsidies for the installation of high-efficiency heating systems:

• Central heat pump: up to 5,000 $
• Geothermal system: up to 12,500 $
• Wall-mounted heat pump (ductless): up to 2,000 $

LogisVert covers other ecological equipment:

• Thermodynamic water heaters: up to 1,000 $
• Solar thermal system: up to 2,000 $
• Electric charging station: up to 600 $

The combined cap for these programs is 4,200 $ per property, but if you install a complete geothermal system, you can go beyond that.

Real savings: According to TEQ data, homeowners who replace their traditional electric heating system with a heat pump save between 30 % and 50 % on their annual heating costs.

For an average house in Longueuil, this represents between 600 $ and 900 $ per year. Over the lifetime of a heat pump (15-20 years), we're talking about savings of 12,000 $ to 18,000 $.

These programs are administered directly by TEQ and are available throughout Quebec, including of course Longueuil and the entire region. South Shore.

The RénoRégion program-for major repairs

This is the program that best replaces the Rénovation Québec program for structural work. But many Longueuil homeowners are unaware of its existence.

RénoRégion was created to help homeowners repair major problems affecting the safety or health of their dwelling: cracked foundations, failing roofs, dangerous electrical systems, major plumbing problems.

The myth to correct: Many people think that RénoRégion is just for rural areas. It's not. Urban areas like Longueuil are eligible.

Eligibility criteria:

• Owner-occupier (you live in the house)
• Family income below certain thresholds (varies with household size)
• Work to correct major deficiencies

Available amounts:

• Up to 95 % of costs for very low-income households
• Up to 80 % in costs for low-income households
• Up to 50 % lower costs for low-income households

The subsidy ceiling varies from region to region, but in the Montérégie region it can be as high as 20,000 $ for major cases.

Case in point: One of our customers in Saint-Hubert used RénoRégion in 2024 to repair major cracks in its foundation and re-roof its roof. Total cost: 22,000 $. Grant obtained: 17,600 $ (80 % of roofing). He paid just 4,400 $ out of his own pocket.

The process takes longer than other programs (3 to 6 months from application to approval), but for major work, it's well worth it.

Municipal programs and AccèsLogis Québec

There are also lesser-known programs that can be applied to your situation.

AccèsLogis Québec is primarily for social and community housing, but some components can help homeowners who are converting their homes into multiple units or adding a secondary suite.

In July 2025, the City of Longueuil announced an envelope of $13.6 million for the creation of 90 new housing units for seniors under AccèsLogis. This shows that the city remains active in supporting housing despite the suspension of the Rénovation Québec program.

Specific municipal programs: Some Longueuil boroughs offer tax credits or subsidies for:

• Facade revitalization in Old Longueuil
• Creating accessible housing
• Installation of rainwater harvesting systems
• Greening courtyards (to counteract heat islands)

These programs change from year to year. The best thing to do is check directly with the city's planning department or call us-we always keep an up-to-date list of available grants.

🔨 Not sure which program to choose for your project? Cartago can help you find the right subsidy and maximize your repayments.

Myths and realities about the end of the Rénovation Québec program

There's been a lot of confusion and misinformation circulating since the program was suspended. Let's clear things up.

Myth 1-All aid disappeared with the QRP

✅ Reality: The Rénovation Québec program was just one of many. Rénoclimat, Chauffez vert, LogisVert, and RénoRégion are still active and accepting new applications.

In fact, these combined programs often offer more money than the Rénovation Québec program alone. It's just a matter of targeting the right program for your project.

For example, if you do complete insulation AND install a heat pump, you could accumulate Rénoclimat (up to 2,500 $) and Chauffez vert (up to 5,000 $), for a total of 7,500 $. That's more than the Rénovation Québec maximum for most households.

Myth 2 - PRQ waiting lists are transferred automatically

🚫 Correction: If you were on the Rénovation Québec waiting list, your file was not automatically transferred to another program.

You need to reapply for other programs. Each has its own forms, eligibility criteria and approval process.

The good news? Many of the documents you've already prepared for the Rénovation Québec program can be reused: proof of income, property appraisals, descriptions of work.

Our advice: apply as soon as possible. The budgets of other programs will be stretched even more now that the Rénovation Québec program is on hiatus.

Myth 3-Longueuil is excluded from the RénoRégion program

🟢 Reality: Longueuil is eligible for the RénoRégion program, even though it's an urban area.

This confusion stems from the fact that RénoRégion was originally designed for rural areas. But since 2023, the program has been expanded to include urban areas with older housing in need of major repairs.

Areas of Longueuil particularly eligible: Vieux-Longueuil (many houses built before 1970), certain parts of Saint-Hubert, and neighborhoods near the river where foundations are often affected by water damage. ground movements.

If you have serious structural problems-shifting foundations, leaking roofs, non-compliant electrical systems-RénoRégion can probably help.

📞 Contact Cartago Construction to check your eligibility for these programs-we know the criteria inside out and can assess your chances of approval.

Steps to qualify for a renovation grant in 2025

Now that you know what programs are available, let's take a look at how you can actually get your grant.

The process varies a little from program to program, but there are steps common to all.

Step 1-Identify the right program

The first thing to do is determine which program best suits your needs and financial situation.

Here's a quick comparison chart:

Rénoclimat:

• Type of work: Energy efficiency (insulation, ventilation, windows)
• Maximum amount: 2,500 $
• Income criteria: None
• Average lead time: 2-3 months

Chauffez vert / LogisVert:

• Type of work: Ecological heating, green equipment
• Max amount: 12,500 $ (geothermal) or 4,200 $ (other)
• Income criteria: None
• Average lead time: 1-2 months

RénoRégion:

• Type of work: Major repairs (structure, roof, foundations)
• Maximum amount: 20,000 $ (depending on region)
• Income criteria: Yes (varies)
• Average lead time: 4-6 months

Programme Rénovation Québec (suspended):

• Type of work: All types of renovation
• Maximum amount: 15,000 $ (depending on income)
• Income criteria: Yes
• Average delay: N/A

As you can see, there's no universal program that exactly replaces the Rénovation Québec program. But by intelligently combining the available programs, you can often obtain as much or more financial assistance.

Our role at Cartago is to help you navigate these options and choose the best strategy for your situation.

Step 2-Prepare documents and obtain an audit

Almost all grant programs require an assessment or audit before work can begin.

For Rénoclimat: You need to have an energy audit carried out by an accredited consultant. It costs around 300 $, but this amount is reimbursed. The audit will identify the work to be prioritized and estimate your future energy savings.

For Heat green: You need an assessment of your current heating system and a plan for installing the new system by a qualified contractor.

For RénoRégion: An inspector must come and assess your property's deficiencies and confirm that they warrant financial assistance.

Common documents to be prepared:

• Proof of ownership (deed of sale or tax statement)
• Proof of income (notice of assessment for the last two years)
• Photos of problems to be corrected
• Detailed estimate from an RBQ-certified contractor

Important: keep all your receipts and invoices. You'll need to prove that the work has been completed to receive your final reimbursement.

A little tip: many programs now offer a 200 $ discount on audit fees if your family income is below a certain threshold. Find out more when you book your assessment appointment.

Step 3-Do the work with an RBQ-certified contractor

Here's where many homeowners make a costly mistake: they hire a non-certified contractor to save a few bucks.

The problem? Almost all subsidy programs require that the work be carried out by a contractor holding a valid license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ).

Without this license, your claim will be rejected. You'll have done the work, but you won't receive a penny of subsidy.

Why RBQ certification is essential:

• A guarantee of competence and ongoing training
• Ensures that the contractor complies with building code standards
• It protects you with the new residential buildings warranty plan
• It's mandatory for access to government subsidies

At Cartago Construction, our RBQ license is up to date and publicly accessible. You can check it at any time on the RBQ register.

We also carry $2 million in comprehensive liability insurance, as well as worksite insurance. If something goes wrong during construction-which rarely happens, but you can't be too careful-you're protected.

Trust signals to check with your contractor:

• Valid RBQ license (ask for and verify the number)
• Up-to-date liability insurance
• Verifiable references from recent customers
• Permanent business address (not just a cell phone number)
• Detailed written contract before work begins

Never trust a contractor who tells you «we'll fix it for the grants later». If it's not done right the first time, you risk losing everything.

Step 4-Request reimbursement and keep proof of payment

Once the work has been completed, you must submit your claim with all the required proof.

What you need to provide:

• Detailed final contractor invoices
• Before and after photos
• Post-work inspection report (for Rénoclimat and certain other programs)
• Proof of payment (cashed cheques, bank transfers)

Where to submit:

• Rénoclimat and Chauffez vert: Transition énergétique Québec (TEQ) portal
• RénoRégion: Portal of the Société d'habitation du Québec (SHQ)
• Municipal programs: Guichet de la Ville de Longueuil

Delivery time: Generally between 4 and 8 weeks after your application has been submitted. During peak periods (spring and autumn), it can take up to 12 weeks.

An important tip: make copies of EVERYTHING before sending your documents. Files can get lost, and it's much easier to resend a copy than to start from scratch.

💡 Take advantage of turnkey support with Cartago: initial inspection, transparent quotation, coordination with subsidy programs, and assistance with claims.

Why trust Cartago Construction?

At this point, you'll understand that navigating the world of renovation grants isn't easy. There are forms to fill out, criteria to meet, documents to provide and standards to follow.

This is where a trusted partner makes all the difference.

A local RBQ-certified and insured company

Cartago Construction is a residential renovation company based in Longueuil, in the heart of the Montérégie region.

Our office is located at 2580 rue Cartier, in Longueuil. We're not a virtual company or a call service that outsources everything to strangers. We're your neighbors.

Our RBQ license covers all types of residential work: structure, insulation, plumbing (via our certified subcontractors), electrical (ditto), and finishing. We can manage your project from A to Z without you having to coordinate five different contractors.

We have comprehensive insurance to protect you for the duration of the job. If there's an accident on the job or something gets damaged, you're covered. You don't pay for our mistakes.

And above all, we know Longueuil. We know which neighborhoods have foundation problems because of the clay soil. We know where houses have insulation challenges because of their age. We know the municipal inspectors and their expectations.

This local knowledge can't be bought. It just comes from experience.

10 years of experience serving homeowners in Greater Montreal

Cartago Construction has officially been in existence for two years, but our founder Yassine Troudi has over 10 years' experience in residential construction in Quebec.

This means we've seen the market evolve. We've navigated through different economic cycles, different versions of subsidy programs, and different changes to the Quebec Construction Code.

We've delivered dozens of projects in Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, Brossard, and all over the South Shore. From small kitchen renovations to complete expansions, not forgetting basement finishing and exterior renovations.

What sets us apart? Our transparent, human approach.

We think renovation shouldn't be stressful. You tell us your vision, we tell you clearly what's possible with your budget, and we deliver what we promise.

No cost surprises halfway through. No unjustified delays. No botched jobs that have to be redone. Just professional service where you're respected and informed every step of the way.

Transparent, human support

Here's how we work with our customers on projects involving subsidies.

Free initial consultation: You call us or fill in the form on our website. We make an appointment to come to your home. We'll assess your home, listen to your needs, and explain what grants you might be eligible for.

Clear and detailed quotation: You'll receive a written quotation detailing all the work, materials and costs involved. We'll also show you what grants you're eligible for and how they'll reduce your final investment.

Assistance with requests: We can help you fill in grant application forms. If you need an energy audit, we coordinate the appointment with our certified partner. We make sure your file is complete before submission.

Supervised work: Once your project has been approved, we start work according to the agreed schedule. Yassine or a member of our team visits the site regularly to make sure everything is up to standard and in line with your vision.

Inspection management: We coordinate all required municipal inspections. We are present during inspections to answer questions and make any necessary adjustments immediately.

Post-project support: After the work is completed, we help you submit your claim with all the required documents. We're always available if you have any questions or need to make any minor adjustments.

That's what service is all about turnkey. One number to call, one team to take care of everything.

🧱 Schedule your free estimate today for your renovation projects in Longueuil. Call us at 438-932-4326 or visit cartagoconstruction.ca

FAQ - Subsidies and renovations in Longueuil [2025]

We end with the questions we've been asked most often since the suspension of the Rénovation Québec program.

Will the Rénovation Québec program return in 2026?

It's possible, but nothing is guaranteed. The SHQ has mentioned that a relaunch is «being considered» for 2026, but no date or budget has been confirmed. Our advice: plan your renovations with the programs currently available. If the Rénovation Québec program comes back, so much the better, but don't count on it just yet.

What's the difference between PRQ and Rénoclimat?

The Rénovation Québec program covered a wide range of work (structural, aesthetic, energy-related) and was aimed primarily at low-income households. Rénoclimat focuses solely on energy efficiency, but is open to all without income criteria. Rénoclimat amounts are generally lower (max 2,500 $), but the program can be combined with other assistance.

Who is eligible for RénoRégion in urban areas?

Homeowners whose family income is below certain thresholds (approximately 60,000 $ to 80,000 $ depending on household size) and who have major problems affecting the safety or health of their dwelling. Even if you live in an urban area like Longueuil, you may be eligible if your home requires major structural repairs.

How can I combine Rénoclimat and LogisVert?

It's possible and even encouraged! If your work includes insulation AND a new eco-friendly heating system, you can apply for Rénoclimat for the insulation and Chauffez vert for the heat pump. Just be sure to identify each job in your applications to avoid overlapping.

Do grants cover foundation cracks?

Yes, via RénoRégion. Foundation cracks that affect the structure or create water infiltration are considered major deficiencies. If you qualify under income criteria, RénoRégion can cover up to 95 % of repair costs, depending on your financial situation.

What if my income exceeds the threshold?

You can still access Rénoclimat, Chauffez vert and LogisVert-these programs have no income criteria. Only RénoRégion (and the former Rénovation Québec program) had income limits. You may also want to explore the reduced-rate financing programs offered by some financial institutions for energy-efficient renovations.

How can Cartago help me?

We're with you every step of the way: free evaluation of your eligibility, help with filling out forms, coordination with energy auditors, completion of work in compliance with standards, management of inspections, and support for the final claim. Just give us a call-we'll take care of the rest.

How long does it take to receive the grant?

Varies by program. Rénoclimat and Chauffez vert: 4 to 8 weeks after complete submission of your file. RénoRégion: up to 12 weeks. Times may be longer during peak periods (spring and fall). Our advice: submit your application as soon as possible after the work has been completed, along with all required documents.

Conclusion - Don't let program suspension stop you

The suspension of the Rénovation Québec program is disappointing. It's understandable. You may have planned your work around this financial assistance.

But here's the reality: you still have access to generous grants that can finance a good part of your project. Rénoclimat, Chauffez vert, LogisVert, and RénoRégion are all active and accepting new applications as we speak.

The key is to target the right program for your work and your financial situation. And that's exactly where an experienced, local contractor like Cartago Construction makes the difference.

We know all these programs inside out. We know how to maximize your subsidies by intelligently combining different types of assistance. We know how to fill in the forms correctly to avoid rejection. And, above all, we know how to carry out the work to the required standards so that you receive your reimbursement without a hitch.

New grant applications are likely to increase now that the Rénovation Québec program is on hiatus. Budgets for other programs could run out more quickly. Now is the time to act.

Your home deserves to be comfortable, safe and energy-efficient. Grant programs are available to help you get there. Let's take advantage of them together.

Contact Cartago Construction today for your free evaluation. We'll show you exactly what grants you can get and how much they'll reduce your renovation costs.

📞 438-932-4326
✉️ [email protected]
🌐 cartagoconstruction.ca

Our office: 2580 rue Cartier, Longueuil, QC

We're here to help you realize your project, grant or no grant. But why pay full price when there are thousands of dollars in financial assistance waiting for you?

Give us a call. We'll find the solution together.