Is work carried out outside the insulated envelope of the house eligible?

What you need to know about eligibility restrictions in the LogisVert program for heat pumps and related work

When it comes to residential energy efficiency, one of the most crucial aspects of obtaining a LogisVert grant is to understand the concept of the insulated envelope of the house . This envelope refers to the heated or air-conditioned space that is delimited by well-insulated walls, a roof and a floor. Thus, the question becomes essential: is the work carried out outside this insulated envelope eligible for financial assistance under the LogisVert program?

At AirGreen, we've helped hundreds of clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and on the North and South Shores apply for LogisVert subsidies. Here's what you need to know.

Understanding what insulated envelope is

The insulated envelope of a building includes all the surfaces that delimit the habitable and heated spaces :

• Insulated exterior walls

• Roof or attic (insulated)

• Floors overlooking unheated spaces

• Windows and exterior doors

Anything outside of these zones , such as an unheated attic, a detached garage, or an installation on an uninsulated flat roof, is not considered part of the insulated envelope .

Eligible works in the insulated envelope

According to the official guidelines of the LogisVert Participant's Guide (January 2025) , several measures may qualify for subsidies, provided that the work is carried out inside the insulated envelope :

• Installation of an efficient or high-efficiency heat pump (central or wall-mounted)

• Roof insulation work with thermal resistance RSI ≥ 8.8 (R-50)

• Sealing and caulking work around windows, doors, hatches, fans, etc.

• Installation of heat pump dryers and induction cookers

Work outside the insulated envelope is not eligible , unless specifically mentioned in the program, which is rare.

What is excluded: exterior work or work outside habitable areas

Here is a non-exhaustive list of work not eligible for LogisVert financial assistance:

Installation in non-isolated areas:

• Installation of an indoor unit in an uninsulated attic or crawl space

• Installation of a duct or ventilation system outside heated rooms

• Adding a heater to a detached garage

Non-eligible replacements:

• Replacement of a single component of a heat pump (e.g.: coil, compressor)

• Reinstallation of a device following a failure (even under warranty)

• Unit change without measurable energy efficiency improvement

Cosmetic or partial work:

• Caulking carried out only on certain windows without complying with the full requirement (all openings must be caulked)

• Partial roof insulation below RSI 8.8

Concrete case: unacceptable installation on the North Shore

During a recent project in Boisbriand, a client asked us to install a wall-mounted heat pump with the indoor unit in a room above an uninsulated garage. Despite the quality of the work and the performance of the unit, Hydro-Québec rejected the grant application because the unit was located outside the insulated envelope of the house . This type of mishap can be avoided thanks to professional support like the one we offer at AirGreen.

How AirGreen ensures LogisVert compliance

At AirGreen, our approach is rigorous:

• Accurate assessment of eligible areas before any installation

• Choice of certified equipment eligible by the program (HRIs, approved models)

• Complete documentation : compliant invoices, photos, serial numbers, RBQ licenses

• Strategic advice : combination of measures to obtain the 5% bonus if eligible

We have assisted clients in Longueuil with the installation of Gree Sapphire heat pumps with complete caulking, or in Laval for projects combining roof insulation and a Bosch BOVA central heat pump, all eligible thanks to our strict compliance with LogisVert requirements.

Grants available: efficient heat pumps and combined works

Here is a reminder of the financial aid amounts in effect:

Tips to avoid common mistakes

• Never install the indoor unit in an unheated space

• Always insulate and seal all openings if you opt for these measures.

• Photograph the nameplates of the outdoor units

• Work with RBQ accredited installers registered with the Registrar of Enterprises

Why choose AirGreen for your eligible HVAC work?

With projects completed throughout the Greater Montreal area—from Sainte-Julie to Saint-Eustache—we have developed specific expertise in HVAC installations eligible for the LogisVert program . Thanks to our in-depth knowledge of the guide and our rigorous documentation, our clients receive their grant quickly , without any unpleasant surprises.

Conclusion

No , work carried out outside the insulated envelope of the house is not eligible for the LogisVert program. To avoid rejection, it is essential to plan your installations with experts who understand the eligibility criteria . At AirGreen, we support you every step of the way to ensure your energy efficiency projects are not only efficient, but also fully reimbursed by government programs.