How Our Accessibility Kitchen Designs Help You Meet CMHC Requirements and Secure 95% Loan to Value
- Jul 8
- 4 min read
When it comes to multifamily housing projects, meeting accessibility standards is not just a legal requirement but a smart investment. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) sets clear accessibility points that developers and property managers must hit to qualify for certain loan programs, including the valuable 95% loan to value (LTV) financing.
As a specialist in accessibility design and kitchen manufacturing, I understand the challenges you face. That’s why we’ve engineered kitchen designs that guarantee compliance with CMHC’s MLI Select requirements. You don’t have to spend time figuring out the details—we’ve done the work for you. This post explains how our approach helps you meet accessibility points efficiently and secure the financing you need.
Accessible kitchen design with lowered counters and wide aisles
Why Accessibility Matters for Your Multifamily Projects
Accessibility is more than a checkbox. It ensures that your properties serve a wider range of residents, including seniors and people with disabilities. CMHC’s MLI Select program rewards projects that meet specific accessibility points with better financing options, such as the 95% loan to value.
Meeting these points can be complex. It involves detailed design considerations, especially in kitchens where space, reach, and usability are critical. If your kitchens don’t meet the standards, you risk losing out on favorable loan terms or facing costly redesigns.
By focusing on accessibility from the start, you improve your project’s market appeal and compliance. This approach also aligns with Ontario’s growing demand for inclusive housing.
How Our Kitchen Designs Guarantee CMHC MLI Select Compliance
We’ve spent time engineering kitchen designs that hit the accessibility points required by CMHC. Our designs focus on:
Counter heights that accommodate wheelchair users
Clear floor space for easy maneuvering
Accessible storage solutions within reach
Appliance placement that meets accessibility guidelines
Our expertise means you don’t have to guess or test multiple layouts. We provide ready-to-use designs that meet or exceed the MLI Select requirements. This saves you time and reduces the risk of costly changes during construction.
For example, our ErgoFlex Kitchen System features adjustable countertops and pull-out shelves designed specifically for accessibility. This system is a practical solution that supports your compliance goals while offering modern aesthetics.
Products That Support Accessibility and Financing Goals
To help you achieve these standards, we offer products designed with accessibility in mind. Here are two examples:
1. ErgoFlex Kitchen System
A modular kitchen design with adjustable counter heights and accessible storage. It’s engineered to meet CMHC’s accessibility points and improve usability for all residents.
2. EasyReach Cabinet Series
Cabinets with pull-down shelves and soft-close doors that make storage accessible without strain. These cabinets are perfect for multifamily units aiming for MLI Select compliance.
Both products are designed to integrate seamlessly into your projects, helping you meet accessibility requirements without sacrificing style or function.
Accessible kitchen cabinet with pull-down shelves
How Accessibility Design Helps You Access 95% Loan to Value
The 95% loan to value is a significant advantage for developers and investors. It reduces the upfront capital needed and improves cash flow during construction and leasing phases. However, CMHC requires projects to meet certain accessibility points to qualify.
Our kitchen designs and products are tailored to help you meet these points. By choosing our solutions, you demonstrate compliance clearly and confidently. This can speed up your loan approval process and reduce the risk of delays.
For example, a recent multifamily project we supported used our ErgoFlex Kitchen System and EasyReach Cabinets. The project met all accessibility points and secured the 95% LTV financing, allowing the developer to allocate funds to other critical areas.
Practical Tips for Integrating Accessibility in Your Kitchens
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when planning accessible kitchens:
Plan for clear floor space of at least 1500 mm diameter for wheelchair turning.
Use adjustable or varied counter heights to accommodate different users.
Install pull-out shelves and drawers instead of fixed shelves.
Choose lever-style handles for easier grip.
Ensure appliances are reachable and controls are easy to operate.
Our designs incorporate these tips and more, so you don’t have to worry about missing details.
Kitchen layout with clear floor space and accessible appliances
Why Work With Us for Your Accessibility Kitchen Needs
We are your one-stop shop for accessibility kitchen design and manufacturing in Ontario. Our experience with CMHC requirements and multifamily projects means you get solutions that work in the real world.
We help you:
Save time by providing engineered designs that meet MLI Select requirements
Access better financing options like the 95% loan to value
Improve your property’s appeal to a wider tenant base
Avoid costly redesigns and compliance issues
Our goal is to support your project’s success from start to finish.
Accessibility is a key factor in securing financing and creating inclusive housing. With our engineered kitchen designs and products, you can meet CMHC’s accessibility points confidently. This helps you access the 95% loan to value and complete your multifamily projects with excellence.
If you want to learn more about how we can help you meet accessibility requirements and improve your project financing, feel free to reach out. We’re here to make your property transformation easier and more successful.
This post is informational and based on our experience with CMHC requirements and accessibility design. For specific financing advice, consult with your financial advisor or CMHC representative.
