Top RAHA rejection reasons (2026): (1) Starting work before written approval—disqualifies entire rebate; (2) Liquid assets over $100,000 (TFSAs count, RRSPs don't); (3) Incomplete OT assessment missing duration statement or credentials; (4) Missing documentation (quotes, NOA, photos); (5) Not accounting for luxury material adjustments; (6) Missing the 180-day completion deadline.
One mistake can cost you $20,000
Mistake #01
Starting work before approval
The #1 RAHA rejection reason
Signing a contract, ordering materials, or beginning any work before receiving your written approval letter from BC Housing. This disqualifies your entire application—no exceptions, no appeals.
Consequences
- • Entire rebate forfeited (up to $20,000)
- • Cannot reapply for the same work
- • No retroactive approvals
Prevention
Wait for the written approval letter. Not a phone call, not an email—the official letter. Only then sign contracts and begin work.
Mistake #02
Miscalculating liquid assets
TFSAs count—RRSPs don't
Many Vancouver Island seniors exceed the $100,000 liquid asset limit without realizing it. The most common error: assuming TFSAs are excluded like RRSPs. They're not.
Consequences
- • Application rejected at eligibility review
- • Wasted time gathering other documentation
- • Potential OT assessment cost with no rebate
Prevention
Add up: cash + savings + TFSAs + GICs + non-registered investments + secondary property value. If over $100,000, you don't qualify. Consider drawing down TFSAs before applying if close to the limit.
Mistake #03
Incomplete OT assessment
Missing required elements
BC Housing has specific requirements for OT assessments. Missing any element—especially the 12-month duration statement or assessor credentials—results in rejection or requests for revision.
Consequences
- • Application delayed while seeking revised assessment
- • Additional OT fees for revision
- • Potential expiration of contractor quotes
Prevention
Ensure your OT assessment includes: observation date and type, functional limitations, disability description, duration statement ("expected to last 12+ months"), specific recommendations, and assessor credentials with license number.
Mistake #04
Missing or incomplete documentation
Quotes, NOA, or photos
Submitting without all required documents: two itemized contractor quotes, Notice of Assessment, OT assessment (if required), property tax assessment, and before photos. Incomplete applications go to the back of the queue.
Consequences
- • Application delayed weeks or months
- • Risk of funding depletion before approval
- • Contractor quotes may expire
Prevention
Use a checklist. Two quotes with PST/GST breakdown, most recent NOA for all household members, BC Assessment notice, OT report, before photos of all areas to be modified.
Mistake #05
Ignoring the luxury rule
High-end finishes reduce rebate
Choosing premium materials (marble tile, high-end fixtures) without understanding that RAHA only covers the "modest alternative" cost. BC Housing will calculate the rebate based on standard materials.
Consequences
- • Lower rebate than expected
- • Out-of-pocket costs higher than planned
- • No recourse after the fact
Prevention
If choosing premium finishes, get two quotes: one with your preferred materials, one with standard alternatives. Understand the rebate will be based on the lower amount. Plan your budget accordingly.
Mistake #06
Missing the 180-day deadline
Work must be completed quickly
Once approved, you have 180 days to complete all work and submit final documentation. Contractor delays, supply chain issues, or personal circumstances can push you past this deadline.
Consequences
- • Rebate forfeited if deadline missed
- • Extension requests not guaranteed
- • Must reapply (if eligible) for remaining work
Prevention
Confirm contractor availability before applying. Build in buffer time for delays. If you anticipate issues, request an extension from BC Housing before the deadline—not after.
RAHA success checklist.
Before submitting your application, confirm:
No work has started, no contracts signed, no materials ordered
Liquid assets calculated correctly (TFSAs included, RRSPs excluded)
OT assessment includes all required elements and 12-month statement
Two itemized quotes with PST/GST breakdown
Notice of Assessment for all household members
Before photos of all areas to be modified
Contractor available to complete work within 180 days of approval
If using premium materials, understand rebate will be based on standard costs
Last verified: January 2026. Application requirements may change—always confirm with BC Housing for current guidelines.