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Home Repair Grants in Alabama

Home Repair Grants in Alabama

Home Repair Grants in Alabama (2025 Guide)

This plain‑language guide is for Alabama homeowners who need help fixing unsafe or broken parts of their homes. It points you to the best programs first and shows how the money really works (grants vs. loans vs. reimbursements), with simple steps to apply.

Last updated: November 2025
Checked against official sources as of November 2025. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

Read this if you are a homeowner in Alabama who is:

  • A senior, a person with a disability, a veteran, a single parent, or living on a tight budget.
  • In a rural town or small city and unsure where to start.
  • Dealing with unsafe issues (roof leaks, bad wiring, broken heat/AC, failing septic, accessibility needs).

Quick check (most programs look for these basics):

  • You own and live in the home (owner‑occupied).
  • Your home is in Alabama (some programs also require a rural address or a specific city/county).
  • Your income fits the program’s limit (varies by program and county).
  • The work fixes health and safety problems. If you mainly need cosmetic work, look elsewhere.

If you’re new to repair grants, skim our plain‑English overview of how these programs work at the site’s general guide on home repair grants and the quick article on how to apply.

Top Programs in Alabama (Quick Table)

These are the first places most Alabama homeowners should look. “Example max help” shows the largest possible amount the program may allow; most awards are lower and depend on inspections, income, and budget.

Program Type Example max help ($) Who it mainly helps Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Rural Development) Loan at 1% and/or grant Loan $40,000; grant $10,000; disaster‑area grant $15,000; combined up to $50,000 (or $55,000 if disaster) Very‑low‑income rural homeowners; grants only for age 62+ See USDA’s Alabama 504 page and local contacts on the Rural Development site. (rd.usda.gov)
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – Alabama (ADECA) Free energy‑saving repairs (grant) Varies by audit; no payback Households ≤200% of Federal Poverty Level; seniors, disabled, families with children Apply through your county’s WAP agency listed on ADECA’s WAP page. (adeca.alabama.gov)
Strengthen Alabama Homes (Dept. of Insurance) Grant for FORTIFIED® roof/retrofit Up to $10,000 Homeowners (priority historically in Mobile & Baldwin; check current rounds) See the official Strengthen Alabama Homes info and IBHS incentive page; rounds are short—apply when open. (fortifiedhome.org)
AL Emergency Management Agency Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) State reimbursement Up to $10,000 per home (disasters on/after Apr. 1, 2025) Owners with disaster damage not fully covered by insurance Learn and apply on AEMA’s DRF pages. (ema.alabama.gov)
FEMA Individual Assistance (after a declared disaster) Grant; some aid is reimbursement Amount varies by inspection; not taxable Owners and renters in declared counties Start at FEMA’s application site or Alabama EMA’s individual assistance info. (ema.alabama.gov)
City of Mobile – Housing Rehab Program Grant Up to $15,000 Low‑ to moderate‑income homeowners in Mobile city limits See Mobile’s program page and recent Critical Repair notices. (cityofmobile.org)
City of Huntsville – CDBG Home Rehabilitation Grant/repairs Varies by scope Seniors (62+) or certified disabled; income‑eligible; owner‑occupied See Huntsville’s CDBG Home Rehabilitation details. (huntsvilleal.gov)
City of Birmingham – Critical Repair Program (CDBG) Grant administered by nonprofits Funding cycles; scope varies Owner‑occupied homes in city limits; needs‑based Watch Birmingham’s official bid/program postings for the Critical Repair Program. (birminghamal.gov)
Montgomery County – Montgomery Thrive Critical Home Repair Free emergency repairs while funds last Program cycle dependent Low/moderate‑income owner‑occupants in Montgomery County See the county page; administered by CARPDC. (mc-ala.org)

Tip: For sewer/septic fixes, see Alabama‑specific notes below and the national explainer on sewer repair help.

Short Federal Snapshot (with links out)

  • USDA 504 (rural repairs): In rural areas, USDA offers 1% loans up to 20 years, and grants for homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. You apply through your local Rural Development office; the official Alabama page lists amounts and contacts. For step‑by‑step help, see our quick guide to USDA Section 504 repairs. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Weatherization (WAP): Alabama’s WAP (run by ADECA) installs energy‑saving measures after an energy audit, with no payback. Eligibility is generally ≤200% of the federal poverty level; apply through your county’s WAP agency. Read our plain explainer on WAP. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Disaster aid: If your county is declared, register with FEMA. FEMA pays for essential repairs and you cannot be paid twice for the same damage (called “duplication of benefits”). Alabama EMA also posts disaster updates and state reimbursement info. See our FEMA homeowner guide to disaster repair grants. (ema.alabama.gov)

Alabama Programs (Core Details You Can Use)

1) USDA Section 504 Home Repair in Alabama (rural)

  • What it covers: Repairs that remove health/safety hazards (roof, wiring, plumbing, accessibility).
  • Money type:
    • Loan at fixed 1% interest up to $40,000, 20‑year term.
    • Grant up to $10,000 for homeowners age 62+; in federally declared disaster areas, the lifetime grant limit is $15,000.
    • Loans and grants can combine up to $50,000 (or $55,000 if disaster).
  • Plain‑money note: A $20,000 loan at 1% for 20 years is about $92/month; $40,000 is about $184/month.
  • Who qualifies: Very‑low‑income homeowners in eligible rural areas; USDA’s map shows whether your address qualifies. Applications are accepted year‑round by local USDA Rural Development offices. (rd.usda.gov)

If you’re mainly worried about roof leaks, skim our short, Alabama‑relevant roof overview here: roof repair grants.

2) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – Alabama (ADECA)

  • What it covers: An energy audit decides the best measures—air sealing, insulation, duct repair, minor HVAC fixes, plus health/safety checks. You do not pay this back.
  • Who qualifies: Households with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; priority often goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children.
  • How to apply: ADECA funds local community action agencies and the Central Alabama Regional Planning & Development Commission to deliver WAP in all 67 counties; find your county’s agency on ADECA’s WAP page and apply directly with them. Waiting lists are common—apply early. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Thinking longer‑term about energy savings? ADECA also notes the state is preparing Inflation Reduction Act “Home Energy Rebates.” Watch ADECA’s Energy Division page for Alabama‑specific launch details and dates. (adeca.alabama.gov)

3) Strengthen Alabama Homes (resilient roof grants)

  • What it covers: Grants for retrofits that meet the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) FORTIFIED® standards—most often a stronger, sealed roof system.
  • Money type: Grant, historically up to $10,000, paid directly to the contractor once the work is verified FORTIFIED. Rounds open and close quickly when funded—apply as soon as an application window opens.
  • Why try it: FORTIFIED homes often get sizeable wind‑insurance discounts in Alabama, and studies after Hurricane Sally show fewer and less severe claims for FORTIFIED homes. (fortifiedhome.org)

This program has had frequent, short application windows. When you see a new round posted, apply fast (think: minutes to hours). The IBHS page also aggregates Alabama FORTIFIED incentives. (fortifiedhome.org)

4) State disaster repair help (AEMA Disaster Recovery Fund) and FEMA

  • Alabama EMA’s Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) can reimburse eligible primary‑residence repairs for disasters occurring on or after April 1, 2025—generally $250 to $10,000 per household, if not covered by insurance or other aid. It’s reimbursement, so you’ll submit receipts; read the DRF FAQ carefully. (ema.alabama.gov)
  • FEMA Individual Assistance (when a federal declaration covers your county) can pay for essential home repairs. Keep receipts and photos. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (no “duplication of benefits”). Apply through FEMA, and appeal within 60 days if denied. (ema.alabama.gov)

5) Septic/sewer safety (selected Alabama options)

  • Lowndes County Septic System Improvement Program (ADPH): Helps low‑income homeowners replace failing systems or eliminate straight pipes. If you live in Lowndes County and have sewage problems, contact the program to be screened. (alabamapublichealth.gov)
  • In rural areas statewide, USDA also funds nonprofits through its Rural Decentralized Water Systems program to set up small revolving funds or sub‑grants for onsite water/sewer—ask your local USDA office about current Alabama partners. (rd.usda.gov)

For a quick national overview of sewer help (and what documents to save), see our sewer repair article.

6) Utility rebates that reduce repair costs

  • Alabama Power: From time to time offers rebates such as $1,000 for high‑efficiency heat pumps (when switching from gas), $500–$650 on certain electric water heater conversions, and up to $200 for smart thermostats. These are rebates (you buy first; they send money back) and offers change—check the Alabama Power rebates page before you purchase. (alabamapower.com)
  • TVA EnergyRight (North AL utilities like Huntsville Utilities, etc.): Offers rebates for heat pumps (often $500–$800), HVAC tune‑ups, duct work, and participation incentives for smart thermostats; some areas offer “Home Uplift” for free upgrades to income‑eligible households. Availability varies by your local power company. (energyright.com)

Ask the agency or a tax professional whether rebates or grants could affect your taxes or other benefits—they usually don’t, but it’s good to confirm.

City & County Programs (Where to Call First)

Many Alabama cities and counties use HUD funds (CDBG/HOME) for “owner‑occupied rehab.” Programs open and close as funds allow. Start with these:

City/County Program Example help Who qualifies How to apply
Birmingham Critical Repair Program (via CDBG; nonprofit delivery) Repairs prioritized by need; cycles open via city postings Owner‑occupied in city limits; income and documentation required Watch the City of Birmingham’s official bid/program notices and contact Community Development for dates. (birminghamal.gov)
Mobile (City) Housing Rehab Program; periodic Critical Repair rounds Grants up to $15,000; roof/exterior often prioritized Income‑eligible owner‑occupants in Mobile city limits See the city’s program page; for special rounds watch Neighborhood Development updates. (cityofmobile.org)
Huntsville CDBG Home Rehabilitation Exterior/safety repairs for seniors (62+) and disabled Must own and reside; ≤80% AMI; age/disability Email Community Development (comdev@huntsvilleal.gov) per the city page. (huntsvilleal.gov)
Montgomery County Montgomery Thrive Critical Home Repair Free emergency‑type repairs while funding lasts Low/moderate‑income owner‑occupants in the county See the county page; administered by CARPDC (334‑262‑4300). (mc-ala.org)
Tuscaloosa (City) Let’s Paint & Renovate (CDBG) Rehab to major systems; not cosmetic Owner‑occupied; ≤80% AMI; in city limits See the city’s notice; call 205‑248‑5080 for current status. (tuscaloosa.com)

Smaller cities and counties often have similar CDBG/HOME “owner‑occupied rehab” options. Call your city/community development office and ask if there’s an owner‑occupied repair or emergency repair program open now. The state community development page shows how CDBG flows to local governments each year. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies (Examples)

Most repair programs use income limits that depend on your metro/county and household size. Many use HUD’s “Area Median Income (AMI).” Some programs use 50% AMI, some 80%, some a flat rule like 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Always check the application for the exact cutoff.

Examples (FY 2025 HUD “Low‑Income” = roughly 80% AMI; amounts can change each year):

  • Birmingham–Hoover area: About $53,700 for 1 person and $76,700 for 4 people. (huduser.gov)
  • Mobile area: About $45,650 for 1 person and $65,200 for 4 people. (huduser.gov)
  • Huntsville area: About $64,700 for 1 person and $92,400 for 4 people. (huduser.gov)

To look up your exact limit, use HUD’s official income limits tools (HOME/Section 8). If a number matters, confirm it with the program staff or HUD’s income limit pages. (huduser.gov)

Special Groups & Short Examples

  • Seniors (62+): Start with USDA 504 (grant for seniors) if your home is in a rural area, and apply for WAP for energy fixes. For example, a 70‑year‑old homeowner near Andalusia could pair a small USDA 504 grant for a broken electrical panel with WAP air‑sealing; amounts vary by inspection and budget. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Veterans with disabilities: Look at VA housing grants (SAH/SHA) for accessibility and VA’s HISA benefit for medically necessary home changes, then add city/county rehab if needed. For example, a veteran in Huntsville who needs a ramp and bathroom changes might qualify for an SAH or SHA grant through VA, and then ask the city about exterior repairs. (va.gov)
  • Rural residents: Check USDA 504 first, then WAP through your local community action agency; add Strengthen Alabama Homes if you need a new, storm‑ready roof. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Households with failing septic: If you live in Lowndes County, contact ADPH’s septic improvement program. Elsewhere, ask USDA Rural Development about nonprofits funded for decentralized wastewater help, and review our sewer repair guide to prepare documents. (alabamapublichealth.gov)

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (set aside 60–90 minutes):

  1. Write a simple list of what’s broken and unsafe (roof leaks, bad wiring, soft floors, no heat, etc.).
  2. Check your income against HUD’s tool (print or save a screenshot) and note household size. (huduser.gov)
  3. Gather proof: deed, photo ID, recent income proof, last tax return, utility bill with your name/address, insurance declarations, photos of damage.

This week:

  • If you are rural and very‑low‑income: call your local USDA Rural Development office and ask about Section 504; ask what documents to bring. Apply for WAP with your county agency. (rd.usda.gov)
  • If you live in Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, Montgomery County, or Tuscaloosa: contact the city/county program listed above; ask when applications open next and how to get on the list. (birminghamal.gov)
  • If your roof is failing and you’re in an eligible area: watch for the next Strengthen Alabama Homes round; line up a FORTIFIED evaluator now so you can move fast. (fortifiedhome.org)
  • If a recent disaster damaged your home: register with FEMA if your county is declared, then review Alabama EMA’s DRF reimbursements (for disasters on/after Apr. 1, 2025). Keep receipts. (ema.alabama.gov)

This month:

  • Get two to three contractor estimates if a program asks for them (some will assign contractors for you). Use licensed, insured contractors only.
  • If your first try is denied or waitlisted, file any allowed appeal and immediately apply to a second program (for example, USDA + city rehab + WAP).
  • Ask your utility about current rebates to stretch your budget (heat pump/water heater/smart thermostat). (alabamapower.com)

Expectations:

  • WAP and city rehab programs often have waitlists (sometimes several months). Critical repairs and seniors/disabled are usually prioritized—apply early and stay in touch. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If denied or funds are gone:

  • Ask for an appeal or reconsideration (some programs allow a 30–60 day appeal window). For FEMA, you generally have 60 days to appeal. Keep copies of all letters and receipts. (ema.alabama.gov)
  • Get on the waiting list and ask when to check back.
  • Call a reputable nonprofit (Rebuilding Together affiliates, Habitat for Humanity local affiliates) for help with critical repairs; they prioritize safety and accessibility. (rebuildingtogethersa.org)
  • Consider a safe, small loan only if needed and affordable. For rural homeowners, a small USDA 504 loan at 1% may be safer than high‑interest credit; ask staff to estimate your monthly payment. (rd.usda.gov)

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

  • Missing documents → Make a single folder (paper or digital) for ID, deed, income, taxes, insurance, utility bill, and photos.
  • Not answering calls/emails → Add the agency numbers to your phone and check voicemail daily.
  • Hiring unlicensed contractors → Ask for license and insurance; in FORTIFIED work, confirm IBHS/SAH requirements. (fortifiedhome.org)
  • Doing work before approval on “reimbursement” programs → Wait until you have written approval and know which receipts they will accept (especially FEMA/DRF). (ema.alabama.gov)

Phone Scripts

Keep it short and calm. Have paper and pen. Say your name, address, and the urgent issue.

  1. Calling a state WAP/energy office (ADECA or your local WAP agency)
    “Hi, my name is ___. I live at ___ in [County]. My utility bills are high and my home needs energy repairs. I believe my income is under the limit. Can you tell me how to apply for Weatherization and what documents you need?” (adeca.alabama.gov)
  2. Calling your city/county rehab program
    “Hello, my name is ___. I own and live at ___ in [City/County]. I’m calling about the owner‑occupied home repair program. My biggest issue is [leaking roof/bad wiring/no heat]. When is the next application window, and how can I get on the list or get help applying?” (huntsvilleal.gov)
  3. Calling USDA Rural Development (Section 504)
    “Hi, I’m a homeowner in [Town]. I believe my home is in a rural area. I have a health/safety repair and I’m very low income. Can someone help me start a Section 504 repair application and tell me which forms to bring?” (rd.usda.gov)
  4. Calling a nonprofit (Rebuilding Together or Habitat)
    “Hello, my name is ___. I’m an owner‑occupant in [City/County]. I’m a [senior/veteran/person with a disability], and I need help with [safety or accessibility issue]. Do you have a critical repair program or an application I can fill out?” (rtbama.org)

FAQs (Alabama‑Specific)

  • Will programs help with mobile/manufactured homes?
    Some will, some won’t. Strengthen Alabama Homes does not fund mobile/manufactured homes; many city CDBG programs focus on site‑built homes. Check the application or call. WAP may serve manufactured homes in some areas after an energy audit. (fortifiedhome.org)
  • Is the money a grant or a loan?
    It depends. USDA 504 can be a 1% loan, a grant (62+), or both; WAP is a grant (no payback); city programs are usually grants but can be deferred/forgivable loans with a lien. Ask if a lien is recorded and for how many years. (rd.usda.gov)
  • How long will it take?
    WAP and CDBG rehab can take months due to inspections and waitlists. Strengthen Alabama Homes runs in short rounds and fills fast; line up your FORTIFIED evaluator early. FEMA and DRF timelines depend on documentation and damage reviews. (fortifiedhome.org)
  • What if my income is just a little over?
    Ask staff if they have a “sliding scale,” alternative funding, or if a new round (with new limits) is coming. Also check utility rebates that don’t use AMI, like Alabama Power or TVA EnergyRight. (alabamapower.com)
  • Will disaster grants affect my taxes or benefits?
    FEMA grants are generally not taxable and don’t affect SSI/Medicaid, but confirm with FEMA or a tax professional. State DRF reimbursements are aimed at repairs; ask Alabama EMA if you have questions. (ema.alabama.gov)
  • Can I be paid twice for the same repair?
    No. FEMA and state disaster funds will subtract other insurance or grant payments. Keep every receipt and letter to avoid duplication issues. (ema.alabama.gov)
  • Where can I find a counselor to help me sort this out?
    HUD‑approved housing counselors can help you review options for little or no cost. (hud.gov)

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Checklist:

  • List safety problems in your home (what, where, how long).
  • Look up your income limit (save or print it). (huduser.gov)
  • Gather documents: ID, deed, income proof, taxes, utility bill, insurance, damage photos.
  • Apply to 2–3 programs that fit (USDA 504 + WAP + city rehab; add Strengthen Alabama Homes if roof).
  • Track: note application dates, case numbers, and who you spoke with.

Key contacts (save these):

Agency/Program What they handle How to reach
USDA Rural Development – Alabama Section 504 home repair loans/grants See the Alabama state office and the 504 program page; call the state office at 334‑279‑3400. (rd.usda.gov)
ADECA Energy Division (WAP) Weatherization & energy programs; lists local WAP agencies ADECA WAP page; Energy Division: 334‑242‑4909. (adeca.alabama.gov)
Alabama EMA (DRF) State disaster repair reimbursements; info & applications DRF info and disaster application hub. (ema.alabama.gov)
FEMA Federal disaster Individual Assistance Apply online or call 800‑621‑3362. (ema.alabama.gov)
City of Mobile Housing Rehab & Critical Repair See program pages; Neighborhood Development: (251) 208‑6294. (cityofmobile.org)
City of Huntsville CDBG Home Rehabilitation See Huntsville CDBG page; email comdev@huntsvilleal.gov. (huntsvilleal.gov)
City of Birmingham Critical Repair (CDBG cycles) Watch city postings for CRP. (birminghamal.gov)
Montgomery County Critical Home Repair (Thrive) County page; CARPDC: (334) 262‑4300. (mc-ala.org)
Rebuilding Together (Central AL / South AL) Free critical repairs (volunteer‑driven) Find affiliates and local pages. (rebuildingtogether.org)
211 Alabama Statewide referrals Dial 2‑1‑1 from any phone for local help lines (utilities, housing, repairs).

Resumen breve en español (Alabama)

¿Quién califica? Propietarios de vivienda en Alabama con ingresos bajos o moderados, especialmente personas mayores, con discapacidades, veteranos, familias con niños, y residentes de zonas rurales. En general, debe: (1) ser dueño y ocupar la casa, (2) vivir dentro del área del programa (ciudad/condado o zona rural), (3) cumplir con el límite de ingresos, y (4) tener reparaciones de salud/seguridad (techo con filtraciones, electricidad peligrosa, calefacción/aire roto, accesibilidad).

Programas clave para intentar primero:

  • USDA Sección 504 (zonas rurales): préstamos al 1% (hasta 20 años) y, para mayores de 62 años, subvenciones para peligros de salud/seguridad. Llame a USDA Rural Development Alabama: 334‑279‑3400 y pida la solicitud de “Section 504 Home Repair.” (rd.usda.gov)
  • WAP – Climatización/Weatherization (ADECA): reparaciones de eficiencia energética gratis (sin reembolso). Solicite con su agencia local del WAP (ADECA tiene la lista por condado). (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Programas locales:
  • Desastres: si su condado fue declarado, solicite ayuda de FEMA (800‑621‑3362). Para reembolsos del estado (daños después del 1 de abril de 2025), vea el “Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF)” de Alabama EMA. Guarde todos los recibos. (ema.alabama.gov)

Consejos:

  • Presente solicitudes a 2–3 programas al mismo tiempo.
  • Las listas de espera son comunes; aplique pronto y conteste llamadas.
  • Llame al 211 si necesita ayuda para encontrar programas. Pida un intérprete si lo necesita.

Where to Confirm Details & Final Reminder

  • USDA Section 504 in Alabama (loan/grant amounts, 1% interest, 20‑year terms, disaster grant limit) — see the USDA Rural Development Alabama page and state contact list. (rd.usda.gov)
  • Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program (eligibility at 200% FPL, county agencies) — ADECA WAP page. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Strengthen Alabama Homes (FORTIFIED roof grants and insurance discounts) — IBHS FORTIFIED incentives page and Alabama news/research on outcomes. (fortifiedhome.org)
  • Disaster help — FEMA Individual Assistance guidance and Alabama EMA’s DRF overview and application information. (ema.alabama.gov)
  • City/county programs — City of Mobile rehab program; City of Huntsville CDBG Home Rehabilitation; Birmingham Critical Repair postings; Montgomery County Thrive repair; Tuscaloosa rehab notice. (cityofmobile.org)
  • Utility rebates — Alabama Power rebates page; TVA EnergyRight rebates/thermostat/Home Uplift. (alabamapower.com)

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Always confirm current details with the agency before you commit to a contractor. If you’re unsure, talk with a HUD‑approved housing counselor. This guide is not legal, tax, or financial advice. (hud.gov)

Looking for more background? These short explainers will help you prep and avoid common issues:

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