Home Repair Grants in North Carolina

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

• Home is in North Carolina, and you live there as your primary residence.
• You need health/safety repairs (roof leaks, unsafe wiring, failed HVAC, rotten floors, failing septic, accessibility ramps).
• Household income is low or very low for your area (based on “Area Median Income,” or AMI).
• You can show ownership (deed, will, or help fixing “heirs’ property”).

Top Programs in North Carolina (Quick Table)

“Example max help” figures below come from official pages when posted; many awards are lower and depend on inspection, eligibility, and funding available.

Short Federal Snapshot (with NC specifics)

USDA Section 504 (rural repair)

In North Carolina’s rural areas, USDA can finance critical repairs at 1% for up to 20 years, and for homeowners 62+ provide grants to remove health/safety hazards. See the national program overview and the USDA Rural Development NC page to contact your local office. For plain-English details, this independent Section 504 guide may help.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

NC’s WAP is run by the Department of Environmental Quality and delivered by local agencies. It adds insulation, seals air leaks, fixes unsafe heating, and more. Check the state WAP page and use the provider finder. Note: DEQ reports a pause (effective Nov. 7, 2025) for LIHEAP-funded Heating & Air Repair/Replacement (HARRP); watch the WAP site for restart status.

FEMA/Disaster help (Helene & future events)

When a federal disaster is declared, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov (online, app, or 800‑621‑3362). For Helene, FEMA Individual Assistance covered many western NC counties; see FEMA’s North Carolina Helene update and the Governor’s how to apply guidance. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (called “duplication of benefits”).

North Carolina Programs (Core Section)

1) NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) repair programs

• Urgent Repair Program (URP) – emergency fixes (unsafe floors, failing septic, dangerous heat, accessibility). Money is an interest‑free deferred loan forgiven over time (URP currently forgives at $5,000/year). As of 2025–26, local sponsors may assist households with up to $15,000; amounts vary by county and need. Start at the URP homeowner page and ask to be connected to your local partner. NCHFA’s recent award news confirms funding increases statewide (press release).
• Essential Single‑Family Rehabilitation (ESFR) – major repairs for seniors or disabled owners (≤ 80% AMI). Assistance is a secured, interest‑free, deferred loan that is forgiven by a set amount each year (NCHFA indicates $8,000–$14,000/year depending on funding cycle). Learn how it works on NCHFA’s ESFR page; NCHFA also posts new county awards periodically (example award).

2) State energy & weatherization

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – No‑cost energy upgrades and safety fixes delivered by local agencies. Start at DEQ’s WAP page and provider directory.
• LIHEAP/Crisis (CIP) – One‑time help on heating bills or emergencies via county DSS. Program basics are on NC DHHS’s LIEAP page and CIP page. Note: DHHS and DEQ report a pause that affected LIHEAP‑funded repair work (HARRP) in November 2025; check the DEQ WAP site for restarted operations.
• Energy Saver North Carolina – State rebates for energy‑saving upgrades and appliances (not emergency repair). Details are at DEQ’s State Energy Office page and the Energy Saver NC info.

3) Utilities: no‑cost upgrades and bill help

• Duke Energy (income‑qualified) – Free weatherization through the NC Community Action Association’s Income‑Qualified Weatherization Program, plus demand‑response bill credits such as EnergyWise Home. Duke also announced expanded 2025 incentives on its news page.
• Dominion Energy North Carolina – No‑cost home upgrades if you meet age/income rules through the Income & Age‑Qualifying program.

4) Disaster repair & mitigation (western NC)

• Renew NC – Single‑Family Housing (Helene) – CDBG‑DR funds to repair/rebuild storm‑damaged owner‑occupied homes in 29 counties. See program updates on the NC Governor’s Renew NC announcement and NC Commerce’s program page.
• Private Road & Bridge repairs – For Helene‑damaged private access routes, see the Governor’s notice about NCEM’s new NC‑PRB program (interest form and details linked from that page).
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) – Elevations, reconstructions, and buyouts after disasters. NC Emergency Management explains the process on its HMGP page.

5) Seniors: small repairs via NC DHHS

For people age 60+, counties can fund minor repairs, accessibility, and essential appliance replacement through the Home and Community Care Block Grant. Program limits and examples appear on NC DHHS’s housing & home improvement page.

6) Lead hazards and healthy homes

For pre‑1978 homes, see the NC DHHS Lead Hazard Management program. Cities also operate lead remediation (for example, Charlotte’s LeadSafe Charlotte and Greensboro’s Lead‑Safe Housing).

7) Septic repair/onsite systems

Some localities have septic programs (e.g., Nags Head’s Septic Health Initiative). After Helene, DEQ also opened State Revolving Fund opportunities for communities and nonprofits to finance septic resilience and homeowner assistance; see DEQ’s SRF Helene announcement.

City & County Programs

These are examples. Many smaller towns also use federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME funds for “owner‑occupied rehab.” If your town isn’t listed, call City Hall or County Community Development and ask about owner‑occupied repair.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use income cutoffs tied to your area and household size. Some use 80% of Area Median Income (AMI); others use 50% AMI or a fixed poverty level. Always check each program’s rules.

• Use HUD’s official Income Limits tool to look up your county or metro.
• Example (Raleigh metro, posted by the City): 80% AMI for a family of 1 is $68,500; for a family of 4 is $97,800 (see the city’s income table).
• Example (Ashe County): 80% AMI for a family of 1 is $42,800; for a family of 4 is $61,100 (see Ashe County’s rehab posting).

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (62+)

Start with NCHFA’s Urgent Repair Program (forgivable lien) and NC DHHS’s housing & home improvement (minor repairs). Rural seniors 62+ should also consider USDA 504 grants for health/safety hazards via USDA. A plain‑language seniors repair guide can help you get organized.

Example: A 70‑year‑old in Smithfield with a failed furnace and soft flooring might qualify for URP to replace unsafe flooring and WAP to address the heating system. Actual work depends on inspection and funds.

Veterans

For service‑connected disabilities, VA’s adapted housing grants (SAH/SHA) can fund accessibility changes; apply through VA’s adapted housing application (VA Form 26‑4555). Grant amounts adjust yearly; see VA’s current SAH/SHA page. You can combine this with local rehab or WAP if scopes don’t overlap.

Example: A veteran homeowner in Concord who needs a roll‑in shower and doorway widening might pair a VA SAH/SHA grant with the City of Charlotte’s Safe Home program if other system repairs are needed.

Disabled homeowners

Accessibility work is eligible under URP/ESFR and many city rehab programs (ramps, grab bars, bathroom modifications). WAP also installs safety devices (e.g., CO/smoke alarms). Check NCHFA’s ESFR page and your city’s housing pages (e.g., Raleigh).

Rural residents

Start with USDA 504 plus WAP. Contact the USDA Rural Development NC office for the 1% repair loan and (if 62+) grant. Then apply with your local WAP provider using DEQ’s provider finder.

Families with storm damage (western NC)

Apply to FEMA first (when active), then Renew NC’s Single‑Family Housing program for long‑term rebuilding. Start at the Governor’s Renew NC announcement and NC Commerce’s program details. Keep receipts and insurance letters to avoid duplication of benefits.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Make a short list of urgent hazards (e.g., “roof leaking in kitchen; no heat; soft bathroom floor”). Take 3–4 photos.
2. Check your likely program path:
   • Rural + very low income: USDA 504 + WAP via USDA RD NC and DEQ’s WAP provider finder.
   • Charlotte/Raleigh/Durham/Greensboro: Start with your city’s rehab program (see table), then WAP.
   • Helene damage: FEMA first when active; then Renew NC via the Governor’s Renew NC information.
3. Call NC 211 if you need help or translation; United Way’s NC 211 is open 24/7 and can connect you to local agencies.

This week

1. Gather documents: photo ID; deed or proof of ownership; property tax bill; mortgage statement; homeowner’s insurance; last 2–3 months of income proof; utility bills; disability/VA letters if relevant.
2. Apply to two or three programs that fit (city/county rehab, URP/ESFR, USDA 504, WAP). Keep a log of dates, contacts, and case numbers.
3. If title is tangled (heirs’ property), contact free legal help—see NC DOJ’s heirs’ property page or Pisgah Legal’s intake line.

This month

1. Attend inspections promptly. Answer phone calls—missed calls delay help.
2. For USDA 504 loans: budget the payment. Example: a $20,000 loan at 1% for 20 years is about $92/mo (principal+interest).
3. Expect waitlists: WAP can take months. City programs often open in rounds—watch the Raleigh rehab page or your city’s housing page for windows.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied: Ask for the reason in writing, whether you can appeal, and when to reapply. For FEMA denials, you have the right to appeal; legal aid groups like Pisgah Legal Services can help in western NC.
• Common mistakes (and quick fixes):
  • Starting work before approval → wait for a written award; many programs reimburse only approved scopes.
  • Missing documents → use the checklist below; upload exactly what is requested.
  • Unlicensed contractor → programs require licensed/insured firms; let the sponsor bid the job.
  • Title problems → contact NC DOJ’s heirs’ property resource or Legal Aid’s housing page.
  • “Double dipping” after disasters → you cannot be paid twice for the same damage (FEMA/insurance vs. other grants).

Phone Scripts (short and practical)

Calling a WAP/local weatherization provider

“Hi, I live in [county]. I’m calling about the Weatherization Assistance Program. My home has [no heat/leaks/high bills]. I’m low‑income and the owner. Can I start an application and learn what documents you need?”

Calling your city/county rehab office

“Hello, I’m an owner‑occupant in [city/county]. I need help with [roof/HVAC/electrical]. Could you tell me the next application dates for your homeowner rehab or emergency repair program and how to qualify?”

Calling USDA Rural Development about Section 504

“Hi, I’m in [town/county], and my home needs [repair]. My income is about [$]. I’d like to see if I qualify for the Section 504 1% repair loan or, if 62+, the grant. Who should I send the intake form to?”

Calling a nonprofit repair group (Habitat/Rebuilding Together/WARM)

“Hello, I’m a low‑income homeowner in [city/county] with [safety issue]. Do you offer critical home repair or accessibility work? If so, how do I get on your waitlist, and what documents do you need?”

FAQs (North Carolina‑specific)

Do NC programs help manufactured homes?

Some do, some don’t. For example, Cumberland County’s rehab program excludes single‑wide mobile homes (see the county’s rehab page), while some nonprofits and utility programs do help manufactured homes if you own the land. Always ask.

What if my income is a little over the limit?

Look at utility programs that use different thresholds (e.g., Duke Energy’s income‑qualified weatherization or Dominion’s age/income program) and state rebates via Energy Saver NC. Also check city programs with higher caps like Raleigh’s rehab offerings.

How long do I wait?

Weatherization waitlists can be months. City rehab programs often open in short rounds (e.g., Raleigh’s windows on the rehab page). Apply early and answer calls promptly.

Will there be a lien on my home?

Yes for most URP/ESFR and city “forgivable” loans (lien recorded and forgiven over time). Charlotte’s Emergency Repair grants note no lien; see its program page. Always read your agreement.

What about property taxes or mortgage arrears?

Some counties offer limited property tax relief (e.g., Durham’s Low‑Income Homeowner’s Relief). For mortgage help, talk to a HUD‑approved housing counselor via HUD’s NC page or call NC 211 for referrals.

How do FEMA and state disaster grants interact?

FEMA covers urgent, basic repairs. State/long‑term programs (like Renew NC) can address remaining needs—but you cannot be paid twice for the same damage. See FEMA’s Helene updates for NC on deadline announcements.

I have “heirs’ property.” Can I still apply?

Yes—many programs accept heirs’ property with extra documentation, or they can hold your spot while you clear title. For help, see NC DOJ’s heirs’ property resource or Pisgah Legal’s intake.

Where do I get help filling out forms?

Call NC 211 for local referrals. Many city housing offices and nonprofits (e.g., Rebuilding Together Charlotte or Asheville Area Habitat) can help with paperwork.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick Checklist

• List urgent hazards (roof/HVAC/electric/plumbing/floors/access).
• Check income limits with HUD’s income tool.
• Gather: ID, deed/title, tax bill, mortgage statement, insurance, utility bills, income proof (pay stubs/benefit letters), VA or disability paperwork.
• Apply to 2–3 programs (city/county rehab; URP/ESFR; USDA 504; WAP).
• Track: dates, case numbers, who you spoke with, next steps.

Key Contacts (save these)

Resumen en español (corto)

Para quién es: Propietarios de vivienda en Carolina del Norte con ingresos bajos, incluyendo personas mayores, con discapacidades, familias con niños y dueños en zonas rurales. Esta guía explica 2–3 programas clave, qué tipo de ayuda dan (subsidio vs. préstamo), y cómo aplicar.

Programas principales: 1) Reparaciones urgentes (URP) de la Agencia de Financiamiento de Vivienda de NC: ayuda para reparaciones de seguridad (subsidios condonables; pida conexión con su entidad local en la página de URP). 2) USDA Sección 504 (zonas rurales): préstamos al 1% y, si tiene 62+, subsidios para eliminar peligros (empiece en USDA Rural Development NC). 3) Climatización/WAP: reparaciones de eficiencia y seguridad sin costo por medio de agencias locales (vea WAP y el buscador de proveedores).

Daños por huracanes (o Helene): Solicite primero a FEMA cuando haya declaración federal y luego a Renew NC para reconstrucción a largo plazo (vea la información del Gobernador sobre Renew NC). Guarde facturas y cartas del seguro.

Cómo empezar: Llame al 2‑1‑1 de NC (United Way) para referencias y ayuda en su idioma; luego solicite a 2–3 programas a la vez (ciudad/condado, URP/ESFR, USDA 504, WAP). No empiece obras antes de la aprobación. Para asistencia legal gratuita sobre título/herencias (“heirs’ property”), consulte el recurso del Departamento de Justicia de NC.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Confirm income rules with HUD’s income limits tool.
• Rural repairs: USDA’s Section 504 page and NC office.
• Weatherization/energy: DEQ’s WAP page and State Energy Office.
• Disasters: FEMA’s NC updates (e.g., Helene press releases) and NC EM’s HMGP page.
• Get local referrals or interpreters anytime via NC 211.

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Always confirm with the agency or a trusted housing counselor before you decide. This guide is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice.