A $60,000 grant from the B.C. government to the SAFERhome Standards Society will fund a two-year pilot project to make housing more accessible for all B.C. families.

The Universal Design Housing Pilot Project will provide developers of low-rise, multi-unit housing with $600 for each unit they design in accordance with the SAFERhome 19-point standards, when they provide matching funds. This will encourage the use of universal design principles in new construction and help assess the costs and benefits of inclusive housing design features.

Universal design housing offers the flexibility to use built-in design features without the need to undergo costly renovations later, as accessibility features can be added more easily and inexpensively after construction.

Design standards include:

• Slightly larger doors.

• Fewer tripping hazards.

• Reinforced walls to accommodate independent lifestyle options.

• Easier to access light switches/plugs.

• Smart home-style electrical options.

Interested developers can apply directly to the SAFERhome Standards Society and must meet inspection and certification requirements for all units in the building in order to be eligible for funding.

Quotes:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing and Deputy Premier -

"Our government supports universally designed housing that can meet the needs of everyone regardless of age, ability or changing needs. The research project will help developers adopt the new standards for new residential construction and give families another option when buying a new home."

Hon. John Yap, Minister for Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and MLA for Richmond-Steveston -

"One of the first new homes using the provincially recognized guidelines developed by the SAFERhome Standards Society was built in Richmond. We hope the Universal Design Housing Pilot Project will encourage many more developments in Richmond and other areas of the province."

Patrick Simpson, SAFERhome Standards Society -

"Implementing the SAFERhome standards is cost-effective both for developers and owners. The project will allow us to quantify the actual costs and benefits to developers. For homeowners, the cost savings come from eliminating the need to make major renovations to the home as lifestyle needs change."

Learn More:

For more information about the Homeowner Protection Office, please visit: www.hpo.bc.ca

For more information about the SAFERhome Standards Society, please visit: www.saferhomesociety.com

Media contact:

Seumas Gordon
BC Housing
604 439-4789
www.bchousing.org