Grants for Home Repairs

Homeowners can access federal and state grants for critical home repairs, weatherization, accessibility modifications, and energy efficiency improvements. Unlike home equity loans or credit cards, grants don't need to be repaid. Below are 1166 verified grant opportunities from government agencies and nonprofits.

Types of Home Repair Grants Available

Weatherization & Energy Efficiency

Free weatherization services including insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling system upgrades, and energy-efficient windows for income-eligible homeowners.

Accessibility Modifications

ADA-compliant ramps, grab bars, widened doorways, bathroom modifications, and other home adaptations for seniors and people with disabilities.

Emergency Repairs

Critical repairs for roofs, heating systems, plumbing, electrical, and structural issues that threaten health and safety.

Health & Safety Improvements

Lead paint abatement, mold remediation, radon mitigation, carbon monoxide detectors, and smoke alarms.

Who Qualifies for Home Repair Grants?

Eligibility varies by program, but most home repair grants prioritize:

Low-income homeowners: Usually 80% or below Area Median Income (AMI), often 50% AMI for weatherization
Senior citizens: Age 60+ or 62+ (depending on program) with limited income
People with disabilities: Documented disability requiring home modifications
Veterans: Service-connected disability or low-income veteran homeowners
Rural residents: USDA programs prioritize very-low-income rural homeowners
Owner-occupants: Must own and live in the home (not rental properties or investment homes)
Emergency situations: Unsafe or uninhabitable conditions (failed heating, roof leaks, electrical hazards)

Note: Some programs require homeowners insurance and may place liens on properties until ownership is transferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to repay home repair grants?

Most grants don't require repayment. However, some programs (like USDA Section 504 loans) are "grants if you qualify" but may include a loan portion. Read program details carefully. Some grants may place liens on your property that become due if you sell within a certain period (typically 1-5 years).

What's the difference between weatherization grants and other home repair programs?

Weatherization grants (through the Weatherization Assistance Program/WAP) specifically improve energy efficiency—insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling upgrades, etc. They're federally funded and completely free for income-eligible households. Other home repair programs cover broader repairs (roofs, plumbing, electrical) and may have different eligibility or repayment terms.

Can I get grants for home repairs if I have a mortgage?

Yes, most programs allow homeowners with mortgages to apply. You must be the owner-occupant (living in the home you own). Some programs require lender approval for certain repairs, especially if they'll place a lien on the property. Check with your program administrator about mortgage requirements.

How long does it take to get approved and receive assistance?

Timelines vary widely by program and demand. Weatherization typically takes 3-6 months from application to completion. Emergency repair programs may respond faster (1-4 weeks for urgent situations). USDA and HUD programs can take 2-6 months. Nonprofit programs often have waiting lists of 6 months to 2 years. Apply early and consider multiple programs.

What if I need repairs but don't meet income limits?

If you exceed income limits for grants, consider: (1) USDA Section 502 Direct Loans (1% interest, very-low-income rural homeowners), (2) FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loans (purchase + repair financing), (3) Habitat for Humanity's home repair programs (some serve moderate-income households), (4) Local community development block grants (CDBG) which may have higher income limits, or (5) Nonprofit organizations with flexible criteria.

Can I choose my own contractor or does the program assign one?

Most programs use pre-approved contractors or their own crews to ensure quality and prevent fraud. Weatherization programs always use trained, certified contractors. Some programs allow you to get multiple bids from their approved contractor list. You typically cannot hire your own contractor and get reimbursed—work must be pre-approved and coordinated through the program.

How to Apply for Home Repair Grants

Contact your local agencies first
Start with your Area Agency on Aging (for seniors), local Community Action Agency (for weatherization), county/city housing department (for emergency repairs), or USDA Rural Development office (for rural areas). These organizations administer federal grant programs locally and know what's available in your area.
Gather required documentation
Most programs require: proof of homeownership (deed or mortgage statement), proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, Social Security award letter), proof of occupancy (utility bills), homeowners insurance policy, and documentation of the repair need (photos, contractor estimates, inspection reports).
Get a home inspection if needed
Many programs conduct free home inspections to assess repair needs and verify eligibility. For weatherization, they'll perform a comprehensive energy audit. For accessibility modifications, they may require an occupational therapist assessment. Be prepared to show the unsafe or inadequate condition that needs repair.
Apply to multiple programs
Different programs cover different repairs. Weatherization handles energy efficiency, Area Agencies on Aging fund accessibility modifications, USDA covers rural repairs, and local nonprofits may help with emergency needs. You can often qualify for multiple programs—one for weatherization, another for accessibility, etc. Just disclose other applications to avoid duplicate funding for the same repair.
Be patient with waiting lists
High demand means many programs have waiting lists. Apply as early as possible. If you have an emergency (failed heating in winter, roof leak causing structural damage), emphasize this in your application—some programs prioritize urgent health and safety issues. While waiting, ask about emergency assistance funds for temporary fixes.

Key Resources for Home Repair Assistance

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Federal program providing free weatherization services to low-income households. Covers insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling system repairs/replacement, and energy-efficient improvements. Administered by state and local agencies. Average value: $6,500 per home.

Visit energy.gov/wap →

USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants/Loans

For very-low-income rural homeowners age 62+. Grants up to $10,000 for repairs to remove health/safety hazards. May also include 1% interest loans up to $40,000. Owner-occupied only. No repayment if you continue living in the home.

Visit rd.usda.gov/504 →

Rebuilding Together

National nonprofit providing free home repairs for low-income homeowners, especially seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and families with children. Offers critical repairs, accessibility modifications, and safety improvements. Operates in 150+ affiliates nationwide.

Visit rebuildingtogether.org →

HUD's Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

Administered by local governments for housing rehabilitation, emergency repairs, and accessibility modifications for low/moderate-income homeowners. Programs vary by city/county—contact your local HUD office or city housing department to learn about CDBG-funded home repair programs in your area.

Visit hud.gov/CDBG →

Available Home Repair Grant Opportunities (1166)

The following grants may fund home repairs, weatherization, accessibility modifications, or housing rehabilitation programs. Read each grant's description carefully to confirm eligibility and match your specific repair needs. Showing page 1 of 59 (20 grants on this page).

Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements Program

Rural Business-Cooperative Service

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