What does CNESST reimburse for routine home maintenance?
The CNESST, also known as the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail, plays an essential role in promoting and ensuring compliance with labour standards, occupational health and safety regulations, and pay equity. Among the various functions and initiatives undertaken by the CNESST, a lesser-known but nonetheless significant aspect is its reimbursement program aimed at helping workers who have been unfortunate victims of a workplace accident or are suffering from an occupational disease, with their ongoing home maintenance expenses. In this blog, we will delve into the details of what the CNESST covers in terms of reimbursement for routine home maintenance, and guide you through the process of applying for this valuable support.
What Is Routine Home Maintenance?
Routine home maintenance refers to the regular tasks required to maintain a safe and habitable living environment. This includes activities such as spring cleaning, lawn mowing, painting and snow removal. These tasks must be periodic or seasonal. CNESST recognizes that these tasks may become more difficult for workers who have suffered an employment injury, and that they may require assistance to perform them. It should be noted that only the cost of labour to perform these tasks is taken into account, and that no materials or equipment will be reimbursed. It is also crucial to differentiate between regular housekeeping tasks and personalized assistance in the home. This differentiation is important because these two approaches meet distinct requirements, and the eligibility criteria for reimbursement of the associated expenses vary according to the specific circumstances.
What Is the Eligibility Criteria?
To be eligible for reimbursement of expenses related to routine home maintenance, the worker must meet specific conditions. First, the worker must be accepted into a rehabilitation program. This acceptance is granted if the worker has suffered permanent physical or psychological injury as a result of his or her work-related accident. Once accepted, the worker is entitled to receive the rehabilitation services necessary to facilitate his or her social and professional reintegration. Once approved for rehabilitation, the worker will receive an individualized plan that addresses his or her physical, social and vocational needs. Reimbursement of ongoing housing maintenance costs comes under the section of the law dedicated to social reintegration. This aspect of the law is designed to help workers overcome the personal and social consequences of their work accident, adapt to their new situation and regain autonomy in their daily activities.
How Do I Apply for Reimbursement?
To apply for reimbursement of routine home maintenance costs, the worker must first obtain at least two quotes for the proposed work. This helps ensure that the solutions explored are cost-effective and efficient. The quotes must come from professional companies, not from friends or family. A form must then be completed and forwarded to the CNESST. This form must be accompanied by receipts or invoices for expenses claimed. The worker must also provide a medical certificate from his or her attending physician explaining how the employment injury has affected his or her ability to perform routine housekeeping work. Only work and costs approved by the CNESST will be reimbursed.
What Expenses Will Not Be Reimbursed?
The CNESST does not reimburse workers for routine home maintenance expenses not related to their employment injury. This includes expenses for major renovations, such as adding an addition to the home, and expenses for home improvements that are not directly related to the worker’s injury. Workers should also be aware that the CNESST will not reimburse expenses already covered by another insurance plan or program. It is also important to note that expenses must be related to the claimant’s residence. If, for example, the worker is the owner of a multi-unit dwelling, only the part he or she lives in will be reimbursed for routine maintenance costs.
The CNESST home maintenance reimbursement program is an important resource for injured workers. By providing financial assistance for necessary tasks that may be difficult or impossible for injured workers to perform, CNESST helps ensure that they can continue to live in a safe, livable environment. If you have suffered a work-related accident, it is important to know your rights and the resources available to you.
