What to expect from Habitat's Home Repair Program

If your home needs repair, there’s nothing like a chilly, wet winter to remind you. And if you find yourself with home maintenance needs you’re unable to afford? You’re in the right place.

Keep reading for valuable information about our Home Repair Program, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and what to anticipate once you're enrolled in the program.

Types of Repairs

Habitat’s Home Repair Program serves a crucial purpose: to tackle vital health and safety issues within our clients’ homes. Qualified homeowners can receive a range of interior and exterior repairs. These include critical repairs (like roof repairs, electrical system upgrades, plumbing replacements, flooring, and window replacements), minor repairs (like electrical and plumbing fixes, siding and paint touch-ups), and accessibility modifications (like ramps, grab bars, and kitchen and bath adjustments). We even repair mobile homes! All repair work is carried out by licensed contractors under the supervision of our experienced construction staff.

Who Qualifies

To qualify for the program, you must be both the homeowner and resident of the property in a city or county we are working in. Homeowners must have a household income not exceeding 80% of the current Area Median Income.

Click here to see if we are currently working in your city or county and for details on income limits. 

The Application Process

There are three main steps to take to apply for home repairs with Habitat.

1. 1. Click here to search for your city and confirm we are working in your area,  your household income meets our requirements, and the type of repairs you need are covered by our program. 
   2. Submit the Application Form and Supporting Documents.
      The application form gives us detailed information about your household and property, so that we can do a thorough review and determined if you’re qualified.
   3. Application Review by Loan or Grant Administrator.
      During the review process, additional documents may be requested, such as tax returns, income statements, and asset documents. 

For a detailed breakdown of the application process, check out our “How to Apply for Home Repairs with Habitat” blog post. 

What to Expect if Your Application is Approved

If your application is approved, you'll meet with a member of our Home Inspection Team, headed by Alex, our Senior Inspector. With six years on the job, Alex takes pride in developing scopes of work for applicants, ensuring that construction projects are on schedule and meet industry standards, and guiding a skilled team of other Inspectors.

After approval, Alex and his team create a detailed description of the work needed, facilitating informed decisions for homeowners when selecting a professional contractor. Homeowners are encouraged to be actively involved in this decision-making process, although if you feel uncertain, Alex and his team are there to provide guidance and support.

Rest assured, you're in good hands! Alex says the part of the job that brings him the greatest joy is “collaborating with appreciative clients who, when it comes to home maintenance, feel out of their depth and overwhelmed.”

Let the Repairs Begin!

Once a contractor is chosen, they'll enter a contract and start preparations for the work. Soon, you'll see the construction team onsite daily, making progress on your home renovations.

Our Home Repair Program is committed to homeowner safety, comfort, and quality of life, ensuring they can remain in the homes and communities they love. As Alex emphasizes, “Long-lasting improvements like new water lines, sturdy roofs, and updated electrical systems are crucial for a healthy home, even if they're not immediately visible”. We handle tasks of all sizes with equal dedication. Don't overlook even the smallest issues – let us address them and ensure everything is taken care of!

Last year, we completed 141 home repairs and a special community project. As we look ahead, our Home Repair Program aims to continue assisting homeowners with limited incomes while focusing on historically underserved communities and those at risk of displacement. 

Through home repairs with Habitat, homeowners can build a revived sense of stability and peace of mind. Read about our most recent home repair stories here: 
•    Meet Charlotte
•    Meet Freddie

Ready to apply or just want further details on whether you might qualify for home repairs through Habitat’s Home Repair Program?