What is MLI Select?
Earn points for Affordability, Energy Efficiency, and Accessibility. Higher tiers unlock better terms and significant premium savings.
CMHC MLI Select Program
MLI Select is CMHC's premium multi-unit residential insurance program that rewards developers and property owners for creating more affordable, energy-efficient, and accessible housing. Through a point-based scoring system, projects can qualify for enhanced insurance terms, extended amortizations, and substantial premium discounts.
Affordability Focus
Earn 50, 70 or 100 points by keeping a share of units at or below 30% of median renter income for 10+ years (+30 bonus points for 20+ years).
- Rent-to-income caps
- Affordable unit requirements
- Long-term affordability commitments
Energy Efficiency
Earn 20, 35 or 50 points for energy performance better than NECB/NBC Tier 1 (new) or reductions vs. current use (existing).
- ENERGY STAR certification
- High-performance building envelope
- Renewable energy systems
Accessibility
Earn 20 or 30 points with accessible / universal-design units or RHFAC certification (100% visitable units and barrier-free commons required).
- Universal design principles
- Accessible unit requirements
- Enhanced accessibility features
Benefits by Tier
The more points you earn, the greater the benefits and cost savings for your project
Tier 50
- Up to 40-year amortization
- 10% premium discount
- Up to 95% LTC (new) / 85% LTV (existing)
Tier 70
- Up to 45-year amortization
- 20% premium discount
- Up to 95% LTC / LTV
Tier 100
- Up to 50-year amortization
- 30% premium discount
- Limited recourse available
Why MLI Select Matters
For Developers
- Significant insurance premium savings (up to 30% discount)
- Extended amortization periods for better cash flow
- Higher loan-to-value ratios reducing equity requirements
- Competitive advantage in the affordable housing market
For Communities
- More affordable rental housing options
- Energy-efficient buildings reducing environmental impact
- Enhanced accessibility for residents with disabilities
- Long-term affordability commitments protecting tenants