CHBA is monitoring this rapidly evolving and unprecedented event, and is committed to communicating relevant industry information to members. On this section of the website dedicated to COVID-19, you’ll find the following information:
Government Relations
This sections outlines how CHBA National is engaging with government and stakeholders to inform further responses and support you during this challenging time.
Key Government Measures
Recent Key Government Measures
CHBA continues to inform the federal government regarding policy and program measures important to the residential construction industry regarding Canada’s COVID-19 response and national-in-nature responses to the crisis. Members can view all measures and their details here. Recent new measures or changes for businesses include:
- The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) has been extended through August. This will be very beneficial for member companies and HBAs accessing the program. CHBA continues to engage government to address the barriers that remain for some businesses trying to access the program. CHBA has previously helped secured greater flexibility on the revenue calculation and reference periods when demonstrating revenue declines, which has helped more members access the program.
- The Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance is now set to open for applications on May 25 through CMHC’s website. Last week, the federal government addressed a gap identified CHBA and others that bars landlords from applying if they don’t have mortgages and has now defined rent as ‘gross rent’, which CHBA also recommended. CHBA continues to advocate for other adjustments to better support tenants and landlords.
- The BDC Small Business Loan will provide up to $100,000 to Canadian businesses.
- The BDC COVID-19 Working Capital loan ($100,000 and $2 million with a 24-month term and 12-month principal postponement).
- The BDC Mid-Market Financing Program will soon offer loans ranging between $12.5 million and $60 million for medium-sized businesses.
- EDC’s Mid-Market Guarantee and Financing Program will bring liquidity to companies who tend to have revenues of between $50 million to $300 million.
- The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund for rural and remote businesses.
Draft Guidelines for Operating During COVID-19
This is a living document, open for discussion and input from members across the country who are on jobsites and adjusting their business practices to follow the recommendations and requirements of their local health authorities, while also finding innovative ways to be most efficient, productive and safe.
Best Practices for Business Owners
A list of best practices for business owners to consider during the current pandemic as well as any future event.