CBC.ca (Jan 28, 2009)

The federal government's new home improvement incentive is getting a handyman's thumbs-up in Regina.

The federal budget included a tax-credit program that offers savings of 15 per cent off the costs of qualifying renovation work that is valued at more than $1,000.  The maximum rebate is $1,350.

"That was music to my ears," Arnold Fritsch told CBC News at the entrance to a Regina home improvement store.

Fritsch, who is retired, said he is right in the middle of renovating his basement, and saving money on that work appeals to him.  "Anybody that isn't happy with this has got to have his head examined," Fritsch said.

According to information from the federal government, eligible work includes such things as painting, installing carpets, or remodeling bathrooms and kitchens.  While the purchase of a replacement water heater or furnace does qualify, things like stoves and refrigerators are not covered by the program.

The work can be done by a homeowner, who may claim a rebate on purchases for the project.  It may also be done by a professional, whose services are covered by the program.

Alan Thomarat, executive vice-president of the Saskatchewan branch of the Canadian Home Builders Association, recommends people who use a contractor thoroughly research the company.  "We want to make sure people are working with professionals and getting the job done right," Thomarat told CBC News on Wednesday.

The program applies only to work or purchases between Jan. 27, 2009 and Feb. 1, 2010.  "That's not a lot of time," Thomarat said.  "Because, typically, it’s going to be at least three months by the time you start to the time you finish any renovation, unless it’s just as simple as changing a furnace or a water heater."

Thomarat said the new program could also be combined with existing incentives that promote renovations aimed at improving energy efficiency in a home.