Home Repair Grants in Georgia

This plain‑language guide is for Georgia homeowners who need help fixing unsafe conditions: seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, rural homeowners, and families on tight budgets. You’ll see the top programs to try first, who qualifies, how the money works, and simple steps to apply.

Last updated: December 2025
Checked against official sources as of December 2025. This is general information, not legal or financial advice, and we are not a government agency.

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

• Georgia homeowners who live in the home (not renters).
• People with low or fixed income, especially seniors, veterans, and households with disabilities.
• Homes that need basic, health‑and‑safety repairs (roof leaks, electrical hazards, plumbing, heat/AC, accessibility).

Quick check: Do you own and occupy the home in Georgia? Do you have low to moderate income? Are the repairs related to safety, health, weatherproofing, or code issues? If yes, you likely have options through the state’s Weatherization program, local city/county rehab, and federal rural or disaster help.

Top Programs in Georgia (Quick Table)

Amounts shown are examples only. Actual awards depend on inspection, eligibility, and funding. Always confirm details on the program page before applying.

Program	Type	Example max help ($)	Mainly helps	Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair	Loan at 1% (up to 20 yrs); grants for 62+	Loan up to 40,000; grant up to 10,000 (15,000 in declared disasters)	Very‑low‑income rural owner‑occupants; seniors 62+ for grants	USDA Rural Development’s Section 504 page and the Georgia RD contacts on the state office page
Weatherization Assistance (Georgia)	Free efficiency and health/safety upgrades	Based on energy audit; no cash to homeowner	Low‑income households; priority to seniors, disabled, families with children	GEFA’s Weatherization program page; apply via your local community action agency
Georgia LIHEAP	Bill payment & crisis help; may include minor energy‑related repairs	Varies by season and county	Low‑income households with energy bills	DFCS LIHEAP page; contact your local CAA
Georgia Home Energy Rebates (HER/HEAR)	Rebates/discounts (not grants)	Up to $16,000 total depending on income & savings	Low‑ and moderate‑income households doing efficiency upgrades	State portal Georgia’s Home Energy Rebates and HEAR info
Georgia Power Home Energy Improvement	Rebates (post‑work)	Up to about $1,250 depending on measures	Georgia Power residential customers	Georgia Power’s rebate program
Invest Atlanta – Owner‑Occupied Rehab	Forgivable/deferred loans	Citywide up to $30,000; Westside up to $60,000	City of Atlanta low‑ to moderate‑income homeowners	Invest Atlanta’s Owner‑Occupied Rehab (Westside intake via Meals On Wheels Atlanta)
Savannah Homeowners Repair Assistance	Small grants + low‑interest deferred loans	Grants up to $2,000/yr; loans up to $15,000 at 2% (deferred)	Low‑income owner‑occupants within city limits	City of Savannah Homeowners repair page
Gwinnett Homeowner Rehabilitation	Deferred loan (0% for 5 years)	Up to $20,000	Owner‑occupants under local income limits	Gwinnett’s program page
Augusta‑Richmond Owner‑Occupied Rehab	Rehab loans; emergency grants	Loan term up to 20 years; emergency grants within set limits	Owner‑occupants meeting income rules	Augusta’s Rehabilitation Programs
Columbus HARP (ARP‑funded)	Grants/assistance for accessibility & critical repairs	Up to $30,000	Low‑income owner‑occupants (≤80% AMI)	City of Columbus HARP page
DeKalb Special Purpose Home Repair	Assistance for seniors and disabled adults	Varies; critical repairs	DeKalb seniors (62+) and disabled adults	DeKalb County program page
FEMA Disaster Home Repair (when declared)	Grants; cannot duplicate other benefits	FEMA caps change yearly; see official page	Households with disaster‑caused damage in declared counties	GEMA’s assistance page and FEMA GA updates

Programs open and close based on funding. If a page says “closed” or “wait list,” check again later or call the agency to ask about the next round.

Short Federal Snapshot (with Georgia links)

• USDA 504 Home Repair offers 1% loans up to 20 years for very‑low‑income rural owner‑occupants, and limited grants for homeowners 62+ to remove health/safety hazards. Start on USDA’s Section 504 page, then call the Georgia office listed on the state contact page. For a plain‑English overview, see this USDA 504 guide (background only). ([rd.usda.gov](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants?utm_source=openai))
• Weatherization Assistance (WAP) in Georgia is run by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) through local community action agencies. It installs energy‑saving and health/safety measures after an energy audit. Learn more on GEFA’s WAP page. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))
• Disaster help: After major storms (like Hurricane Helene), FEMA Individual Assistance can help with basic home repairs if you live in a declared county. Georgia’s emergency portal is GEMA/HS’s assistance page, and FEMA posts Georgia updates and deadlines. ([gema.georgia.gov](https://gema.georgia.gov/assistance?utm_source=openai))

Georgia Programs (Core Section)

1) Weatherization & Energy Help

The state’s Weatherization program can seal air leaks, add insulation, repair/replace unsafe HVAC, and address some health and safety issues. Work is free to eligible households and is done by a local agency after an energy audit. Start on GEFA’s Weatherization page and use their link to contact your local community action agency. Expect a wait list in many counties. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))

Georgia’s LIHEAP helps with energy bills and emergencies and sometimes connects you to weatherization or minor energy‑related repairs through your community action agency. Read DFCS’s LIHEAP page for eligibility and seasonal start dates (seniors/homebound first each December; others typically in January). ([dfcs.georgia.gov](https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap?utm_source=openai))

Two upgrade options can stretch repair dollars: the state’s Home Energy Rebates for whole‑home efficiency and electrification (income‑based), and Georgia Power’s rebate program for specific measures. These are rebates—usually after work is done—so confirm rules before you start. ([energyrebates.georgia.gov](https://energyrebates.georgia.gov/?utm_source=openai))

2) Georgia DCA: Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP)

Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs (DCA) gives CHIP grants to cities, counties, housing authorities, and nonprofits to rehab owner‑occupied homes. Homeowners apply through local recipients, not DCA directly. If you need repairs, contact your city or county community development office and ask if they have current CHIP funds; DCA’s CHIP page explains how communities use these dollars. ([dca.georgia.gov](https://dca.georgia.gov/affordable-housing/housing-development/home-investment-partnership-program-home/community-home?utm_source=openai))

Recent CHIP rounds funded owner‑occupied rehab in places like Baldwin County, Thomson, Waycross, and more. Check DCA press releases for which communities were awarded and when new rounds open, starting with the 2024 awards list and the 2026 grant cycle notice. ([dca.georgia.gov](https://dca.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-05-09/georgia-awards-1303-million-community-home-investment-program-funds?utm_source=openai))

3) Aging & Disability Services that include Minor Repairs

Georgia’s Division of Aging Services funds Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) that can arrange home modifications and minor repairs to help seniors remain safely at home. Call the statewide number (866‑552‑4464) or find your region via the Home & Community‑Based Services page, which lists “Home Modification and Repair” as an eligible service. ([aging.georgia.gov](https://aging.georgia.gov/programs-and-services/home-community-based-services?utm_source=openai))

City & County Programs

These are examples from larger Georgia communities. If your city/county isn’t listed, call City Hall or the county’s Community Development office and ask about “owner‑occupied housing rehabilitation” or “CDBG/HOME repair.”

City/County	Program	Example help	Who qualifies	How to apply
Atlanta (City)	Owner‑Occupied Rehab (Heritage & Westside)	Forgivable/deferred loans; citywide up to $30k; Westside up to $60k	Low‑mod income owner‑occupants; Westside has residency/date rules	Invest Atlanta’s OOR page (Westside intake via Meals On Wheels Atlanta)
Fulton County	Home Rehabilitation Program	Repairs for health/safety: roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing	Income‑eligible owner‑occupants in Atlanta/Fulton	County’s Home Repair Services page
Savannah	Homeowners Repair Assistance	Grant up to $2,000/yr; loans up to $15,000 at 2% (deferred)	Owner‑occupants within city; income limits apply	City of Savannah Homeowners repair page
Augusta‑Richmond	Owner‑Occupied Rehab; Emergency Grants	Full‑system/code repairs; loans up to 20‑year term	Owner‑occupants under HUD income limits	Program page
Columbus	HARP (ARP‑funded)	Accessibility & rehab up to $30,000	≤80% AMI; owner‑occupied	Columbus HARP page
Gwinnett County	Homeowner Rehabilitation	Deferred 0% loan up to $20,000	≤80% AMI; owner‑occupied; basic systems (roof, plumbing, HVAC)	Program page
DeKalb County	Special Purpose Home Repair	Critical repairs; accessibility items	Seniors 62+ or disabled adults	DeKalb program page
Clayton County	Essential & Emergency Home Repair	Limited assistance; roofing, HVAC, plumbing, ADA ramps	Seniors, disabled adults, or veterans	County’s programs page

Nonprofit partners also do repairs. In metro Atlanta, Meals On Wheels Atlanta manages county rehab and veteran repair work; see MOWA’s home repairs info. Rebuilding Together has affiliates statewide; start on Find Your Local Affiliate. In Macon‑Bibb, Rebuilding Macon repairs homes for low‑income seniors and disabled homeowners. ([fultoncountyga.gov](https://fultoncountyga.gov/inside-fulton-county/fulton-county-departments/community-development/home-repair-services?utm_source=openai))

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Most repair programs are for low‑income owner‑occupants. Each program sets its own income cutoff, often tied to Area Median Income (AMI). Check your area’s numbers using HUD’s Income Limits tool. ([huduser.gov](https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html?utm_source=openai))

Examples (2025, for illustration only—confirm before you apply): In the Atlanta metro, Gwinnett County lists 80% AMI for a 4‑person household at about $91,350; in the Columbus GA‑AL area, the city lists 80% AMI for a 4‑person household at about $61,600. Use the HUD tool for your county or metro. ([gwinnettcounty.com](https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/departments/financialservices/grants/hudprograms/housingrehabilitation?utm_source=openai))

Programs may use 80% AMI, 50% AMI, or other cutoffs. Some target “very‑low‑income” (≤50% AMI) or seniors/disabled households first. Always check the program page.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (62+)

• Try Weatherization (via GEFA/WAP) and LIHEAP heating help first. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))
• If you are rural and very low income, consider USDA 504 grants for seniors (health/safety hazards). ([rd.usda.gov](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants?utm_source=openai))
• In metro Atlanta, check Invest Atlanta’s Owner‑Occupied Rehab and Meals On Wheels Atlanta’s home repair intake. ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))

Background reading if you want a broad overview: a plain‑English senior repair guide (secondary source).

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Savannah with a leaking roof could pair the city’s Homeowners repair program (small grant + deferred loan) with Weatherization for insulation and air sealing. Actual work depends on the inspection and available funds. ([savannahga.gov](https://www.savannahga.gov/3398/Homeowners?utm_source=openai))

Veterans

• VA offers disability housing grants like SAH/SHA and temporary residence adaptation. Apply through VA’s adapted housing portal. ([va.gov](https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants?utm_source=openai))
• In Atlanta/Fulton, MOWA and partners complete critical repairs for veteran households; see MOWA’s veterans page. ([mowatl.org](https://www.mowatl.org/veterans?utm_source=openai))

Example: A service‑connected veteran in South Fulton needing a ramp could combine VA’s SHA/TRA benefits with Invest Atlanta’s OOR or Atlanta Habitat’s Repair with Kindness (forgivable repair assistance). ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))

Disabled homeowners

• Ask your doctor and the VA (if applicable) about the HISA home alteration benefit for medically necessary accessibility modifications. ([rehab.va.gov](https://www.rehab.va.gov/PROSTHETICS/psas/HISA2.asp?utm_source=openai))
• AAAs can fund home modifications and minor repairs to improve safety and accessibility; start at the HCBS page. ([aging.georgia.gov](https://aging.georgia.gov/programs-and-services/home-community-based-services/home-services?utm_source=openai))

Example: A homeowner in DeKalb using a wheelchair might use the county’s Special Purpose Home Repair for critical work, plus Weatherization for energy‑related fixes. ([dekalbcountyga.gov](https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/community-development/dekalb-first-time-homebuyersdown-payment-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))

Rural residents

• Start with USDA 504 and your local Weatherization agency. ([rd.usda.gov](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants?utm_source=openai))
• Some smaller cities use DCA’s CHIP to rehab owner‑occupied homes—ask your city hall or see DCA’s CHIP info and recent award lists. ([dca.georgia.gov](https://dca.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-05-09/georgia-awards-1303-million-community-home-investment-program-funds?utm_source=openai))

Example: A homeowner in Thomson with a failing heater could apply through the city’s CHIP‑funded round (when open) and request Weatherization for insulation/air sealing while waiting. ([dca.georgia.gov](https://dca.georgia.gov/press-releases/2024-05-09/georgia-awards-1303-million-community-home-investment-program-funds?utm_source=openai))

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

• Write a short list of urgent problems (roof leak, unsafe wiring, no heat). Take pictures.
• Check repair options: Weatherization via GEFA/WAP; if rural, USDA Georgia RD contacts. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))
• If your damage is from a recent disaster, read GEMA’s assistance page for current FEMA info. ([gema.georgia.gov](https://gema.georgia.gov/assistance?utm_source=openai))

This week

• Submit one application per “bucket”: (1) local city/county rehab; (2) Weatherization/LIHEAP; (3) USDA 504 if rural and very low income.
• If you’re in Atlanta, also check Invest Atlanta’s OOR page. In Savannah, use the Homeowners repair page. In Columbus, try HARP. ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))
• Call 211 to find nonprofits that do repairs (Meals On Wheels Atlanta, Rebuilding Together, Habitat). If 211 doesn’t cover your county, use the United Way directories to find your local line. ([211.org](https://211.org/about-us/your-local-211?utm_source=openai))

This month

• Gather documents most programs ask for: ID, deed or proof of ownership, homeowner’s insurance (if you have it), recent income proof, utility bill, and tax bill if asked.
• Ask each program about timelines. Weatherization wait lists can run months, so apply early and keep your place in line. Use rebates (state or Georgia Power) to stretch repair funds once safety issues are addressed. ([energyrebates.georgia.gov](https://energyrebates.georgia.gov/?utm_source=openai))

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied: Ask for the reason in writing and whether there is an appeal or re‑review. Ask when to reapply.
• If funds are gone: Ask when the next round opens and how to get notified. For cities using CHIP, ask staff to put you on their interest list via DCA’s CHIP contact. ([dca.georgia.gov](https://dca.georgia.gov/affordable-housing/housing-development/home-investment-partnership-program-home/community-home?utm_source=openai))
• Look at nonprofits: Try MOWA repairs (Atlanta/Fulton and beyond), Rebuilding Together affiliates, and local Habitat repairs. ([fultoncountyga.gov](https://fultoncountyga.gov/inside-fulton-county/fulton-county-departments/community-development/home-repair-services?utm_source=openai))
• Heirs’ property/title issues: If a deceased relative’s name is still on the deed, many programs can’t proceed. Ask the Georgia Heirs Property Law Center for help with title clearing and estates. See their services page. ([gaheirsproperty.org](https://www.gaheirsproperty.org/services?utm_source=openai))

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

• Starting work before approval → Wait for a written approval/contract.
• Missing documents → Keep copies of ID, deed, income proof, utility bills in one folder.
• Not answering calls → Pick up unknown numbers; agencies often call from blocked or general lines.
• Unlicensed contractors → For city/county funded work, let the program assign contractors.
• Not checking liens → Many “grants” are recorded as forgivable loans. Ask how long the lien lasts and what happens if you sell or move.

Ask the agency or a tax professional if any funds could affect your taxes or benefits (SSI, SSDI, SNAP). For Medicaid users age 55+, know that certain long‑term care services can trigger estate recovery; see the state’s Estate Recovery page. ([medicaid.georgia.gov](https://medicaid.georgia.gov/programs/third-party-liability/medicaid-estate-recovery?utm_source=openai))

Phone Scripts

FAQs (Georgia‑Specific)

Can I use these programs for a mobile/manufactured home?
Often yes. Weatherization serves manufactured homes, and some city/county programs allow them; others do not. Ask your local agency. Start with GEFA’s WAP page and confirm with your city/county intake. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))

Are “grants” ever liens?
Yes. Many city/county “grants” are forgivable loans recorded as a lien for 5–10 years. For example, Invest Atlanta’s OOR lists 5‑ or 10‑year forgivable loans with a lien. Ask how long the lien lasts and what triggers payback. See the OOR page. ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))

I’m just over the income limit. Any options?
Try programs with higher thresholds (rebates like Georgia’s Home Energy Rebates or Georgia Power’s rebates). You can also ask city/county staff if they have different cutoffs for specific programs or priority neighborhoods. ([energyrebates.georgia.gov](https://energyrebates.georgia.gov/?utm_source=openai))

What if my title is cloudy (heirs’ property)?
Ask the Georgia Heirs Property Law Center for help with title clearing so you can qualify for repairs. See their services page. ([gaheirsproperty.org](https://www.gaheirsproperty.org/services?utm_source=openai))

Property taxes are rising—does help exist?
Some localities offer tax relief, exemptions, or anti‑displacement support. Call your county tax assessor about homestead and senior exemptions, and ask your city’s housing department about anti‑displacement programs. (Program availability changes.)

Disaster repairs: can I get FEMA and other help for the same damage?
No double payments. If FEMA paid part of your roof, another program can usually only cover remaining unmet need. Learn more via GEMA’s assistance page and FEMA’s Georgia updates. ([gema.georgia.gov](https://gema.georgia.gov/assistance?utm_source=openai))

Timelines and wait lists?
Weatherization often has the longest wait. City/county programs open in rounds and may close when funds run out. Check pages regularly (e.g., Gwinnett’s rehab page) and get on local interest lists. ([gwinnettcounty.com](https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/departments/financialservices/grants/hudprograms/housingrehabilitation?utm_source=openai))

Sample income figures for Georgia?
Use HUD’s Income Limits tool. For example only: Atlanta‑area 80% AMI (4‑person) ~ $91,350 (Gwinnett); Columbus 80% AMI (4‑person) ~ $61,600. Always confirm current numbers. ([gwinnettcounty.com](https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/departments/financialservices/grants/hudprograms/housingrehabilitation?utm_source=openai))

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Resumen en español (corto)

Este resumen es para dueños de casa de bajos ingresos en Georgia. Si su hogar necesita reparaciones de seguridad (techo con goteras, electricidad peligrosa, plomería, calefacción/AC, accesibilidad), hay varias ayudas:

• Clima y energía: El programa de Weatherization (WAP) instala aislamiento, sella fugas y puede arreglar HVAC peligroso. LIHEAP ayuda con facturas y emergencias. Aplique con su agencia local (Community Action Agency).
• Reparaciones de ciudades/condados: Busque “owner‑occupied rehab” en su ciudad/condado. Por ejemplo, Atlanta (Invest Atlanta), Savannah (Homeowners Repair), Augusta (Rehabilitation), y Columbus (HARP).
• Áreas rurales: El programa federal USDA 504 ofrece préstamos al 1% y pequeñas subvenciones (62+). Llame a la oficina de Georgia.
• Desastres: Si el daño fue por tormenta declarada, revise la página de GEMA/HS y registre su solicitud con FEMA si corresponde.
• ¿Necesita ayuda para empezar? Llame al 211 (pida intérprete) para encontrar organizaciones como Meals On Wheels, Rebuilding Together o Habitat que hagan reparaciones.

Consejos: Reúna documentos (identificación, escritura, ingresos). Pregunte si la “subvención” es un préstamo perdonable con gravamen (lien). No empiece trabajos antes de recibir la aprobación por escrito.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Use HUD’s Income Limits tool to verify current AMI figures for your county/metro. ([huduser.gov](https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html?utm_source=openai))
• Confirm USDA 504 rules and contacts on the national program page and the Georgia state page. ([rd.usda.gov](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants?utm_source=openai))
• For Weatherization and LIHEAP, start at GEFA’s WAP page and DFCS’s LIHEAP page. ([gefa.georgia.gov](https://gefa.georgia.gov/weatherization-assistance-program?utm_source=openai))
• Disaster repair guidance and deadlines: GEMA’s assistance page and FEMA’s Georgia updates. ([gema.georgia.gov](https://gema.georgia.gov/assistance?utm_source=openai))
• City/county rehab programs open and close—always check the specific program page for current status (e.g., Atlanta OOR, Savannah repair page, Augusta rehab, Gwinnett rehab). ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Before you sign anything, confirm details with the agency or a trusted housing counselor. This guide is not legal, tax, or financial advice.

What the Money Really Looks Like (Plain English)

• Grant: You don’t pay it back, but some “grants” are recorded as a forgivable loan (lien) for 5–10 years. If you sell or move early, you may owe part back (example: Atlanta OOR). ([investatlanta.com](https://www.investatlanta.com/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab?utm_source=openai))
• Forgivable/deferred loan: No monthly payments; debt is forgiven after you meet conditions (often years of owner‑occupancy). A lien is recorded.
• Loan: You borrow and repay (USDA 504 is 1% for up to 20 years). Example payment: a $20,000 USDA 504 loan at 1% over 20 years is roughly $92/month for principal and interest. ([rd.usda.gov](https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants?utm_source=openai))
• Rebate: You pay first, then get money back if you follow the rules (Georgia’s Home Energy Rebates, Georgia Power rebates). ([energyrebates.georgia.gov](https://energyrebates.georgia.gov/?utm_source=openai))
• Reimbursement: Similar to rebates; you submit proof of costs. Always read timelines and required contractors.

Thinking about roofs or sewer lines? See a plain‑English overview of common repair funding such as roof repair grants (background only; always verify with your local program).