Home Repair Grants in Iowa

For low‑income homeowners in Iowa: seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, single parents, rural homeowners, and families with limited English. This guide shows the programs to try first, who qualifies, what the money looks like, and how to apply without getting stuck.

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

• You own and live in a home in Iowa (house, condo, or certain manufactured homes).
• Your income is low or very low for your area (usually based on HUD’s Area Median Income, called AMI).
• You need health, safety, or accessibility repairs (roof, heat, wiring, plumbing, ramps, weatherization).
• You can provide basic documents (ID, proof of ownership, tax/utility records, and income proof).

Unsure about income limits? Use HUD’s Income Limits tool to look up AMI for your county or metro.

Top Programs in Iowa (Quick Table)

“Example max help” amounts come from the cited agency pages. Most awards are lower and depend on inspection, eligibility, and the budget that year.

Short Federal Snapshot (with Links Out)

• USDA Section 504 in Iowa. Very low‑income rural owners can apply for 1% repair loans (up to 20 years), and homeowners 62+ may receive small hazard‑removal grants. See USDA’s Section 504 page, then contact the USDA Iowa office to get started. For background, this USDA 504 guide explains typical steps.
• Weatherization Assistance in Iowa. Iowa HHS coordinates WAP through local community action agencies. Apply year‑round via the HHS weatherization page; staff will route you to your local office.
• Disaster help. If your county is under a federal declaration, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, or see FEMA’s how to apply. For state‑declared events, use Iowa’s Individual Disaster Assistance page.

Iowa Programs (Core Section)

1) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP makes your home safer and more efficient: insulation, air sealing, and health and safety fixes. Iowa HHS lists how to apply and the local agency contacts on the state’s weatherization page. Many applicants come through LIHEAP, but you can apply directly with your community action office.

• Type: Free improvements (no payback).
• Typical work: Insulation, air sealing, combustion safety, sometimes furnace work.
• How to apply: Contact the local office listed under “How to Apply” on the HHS WAP page, or call HHS’s Community Action unit at 515‑281‑3861.

2) LIHEAP (Energy Bill Help) and Furnace Crisis

LIHEAP gives a one‑time winter benefit and can unlock shutoff protection during the cold months. The Iowa Utilities Commission explains the dates and process on its LIHEAP page, and Iowa HHS posts the current income levels (200% FPL) on the HHS LIHEAP page.

• Type: Bill assistance; may pair with emergency furnace repair.
• Application window: Usually Nov 1–Apr 30, with early October start for seniors and people with disabilities per the IUC’s guidance.
• How to apply: Apply through your local community action office listed via HHS’s LIHEAP page.

3) Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance (state)

When the Governor issues a disaster proclamation, the Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program (IIAGP) opens to affected counties. Grants can reimburse repairs, temporary housing, and other basics up to $7,000 per event, for households at or below 200% of poverty. See the state’s IIAGP page for deadlines and the online application. Remember: if FEMA Individual Assistance is turned on, IIAGP turns off in that county, and you should apply through DisasterAssistance.gov.

4) State Housing Trust Funds (local repair dollars near you)

Iowa channels state housing funds through Local Housing Trust Funds (LHTFs). Many LHTFs pay for owner‑occupied repairs or small emergency fixes. Find your trust fund on the Iowa Finance Authority’s Local Housing Trust Fund page, or use the map/contacts on the state’s State Housing Trust Fund page.

City & County Programs

Below are examples in larger Iowa communities. If your town is not listed, ask City Hall’s Community Development office about “CDBG/HOME owner‑occupied rehabilitation.” Your county’s Local Housing Trust Fund may also help; see the LHTF list.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Most repair programs use income limits tied to HUD’s Area Median Income (AMI). Some use 80% of AMI, others 50%, and a few use different cutoffs. Always check the specific rule on the program page.

• To see your area’s current numbers, use HUD’s Income Limits tool and search by county or metro.
• As an Iowa example, Council Bluffs lists 80% AMI amounts for its lead hazard program; the city’s LHR page shows a four‑person limit of $90,960 (example only—see the LHR page for current figures).
• For energy help, LIHEAP uses 200% of poverty. Iowa HHS posts current figures (e.g., a four‑person household at $64,300) on the state’s LIHEAP page.

Numbers change yearly—often each spring. Always confirm the amount for your county or metro in HUD’s Income Limits tool before applying.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (62+)

• Try first: USDA 504 grants for hazard removal, Iowa WAP for energy and safety, and any city/county emergency repair. Start with USDA’s 504 page and the HHS WAP page.
• Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner near Albia with a failing furnace might qualify for WAP safety work and a small USDA 504 grant to remove a hazard. Actual funding depends on inspection and income.
• Background tips are in this plain‑language seniors repair guide.

Veterans

• Try first: City/county emergency repair, WAP, and local nonprofits. In Greater Des Moines, Habitat’s repairs include a Veterans Build focus—see the Habitat Home Preservation page.
• Example: A veteran in Des Moines with a leaking roof might be referred to ION for exterior repair and to Habitat for low‑cost gap work. Income, inspection, and safety needs guide the scope.

Disabled Homeowners

• Try first: WAP (health and safety), city emergency repair for accessibility items, and Habitat’s accessibility work through the Home Preservation program.
• Example: A homeowner in Cedar Rapids needing a ramp and doorway widening may qualify through the city’s Minor Repair program if the work is tied to health and safety.

Rural Residents

• Try first: USDA 504 and WAP. Verify your address on USDA’s Eligibility map via the Section 504 program page, then call the USDA Iowa office.
• Example: A homeowner in Page County with subfloor rot might combine a 1% USDA loan and WAP energy work. Monthly payments must fit your budget.

Families with Children

• Try first: LIHEAP, WAP, city emergency repair, and lead hazard programs in older homes like Council Bluffs’ LHR.
• Example: An Iowa City family with a cracked furnace heat exchanger could apply for LIHEAP furnace crisis, request WAP, and ask the City about its housing rehab.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Write a short list of urgent problems (roof leak, no heat, unsafe wiring) and take photos.
2. Check your address and income. Open HUD’s Income Limits tool and note your 50% and 80% AMI numbers.
3. Call 211 and ask for home repair resources and your local community action office via Iowa 211.

This week

1. If you are rural and very‑low income, call USDA Rural Development at the Iowa RD office about Section 504.
2. Apply for WAP/LIHEAP at your local agency via Iowa HHS’s LIHEAP page and WAP page.
3. Live in a larger city? Submit the city’s home repair form: Cedar Rapids Minor Repair page, Davenport DREAM page, Sioux City Neighborhood Services, or ask Des Moines Neighborhood Services about ION using the library’s ION info.

This month

1. Ask your Local Housing Trust Fund about repair dollars on the IFA LHTF page.
2. Check nonprofit options: Rebuilding Together in Des Moines accepts applications on its program site, and Greater Des Moines Habitat posts repairs on the Home Preservation page.
3. If you need HVAC or water heating, look at utility rebates from MidAmerican’s rebates page or Alliant Energy’s instant discounts.

Weatherization wait‑lists can be months. Submit now, keep your paperwork handy, and call to confirm your place on the list every 30–45 days.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied: Ask for a written reason and whether there is an appeal. For WAP/LIHEAP, your local agency information is on the state’s LIHEAP page. For city programs, ask the housing division supervisor listed on the city page.
• Try other lanes: Ask about trust fund repair dollars on IFA’s LHTF page, utility rebates, or nonprofit repairs through Rebuilding Together and Habitat repairs.
• Heirs’ property/title issues: If ownership is unclear, call Iowa Legal Aid intake. Many programs require clear title before work starts.
• Duplication of benefits: You cannot be paid twice for the same disaster damage. If FEMA or insurance already covered your roof, state or city funds usually can’t pay that same roof again. See FEMA’s apply page.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

• Starting work before approval → Wait for a written approval/notice to proceed.
• Missing documents → Use the checklist below and upload clear photos/PDFs.
• Wrong program → Call 211 and ask which office handles owner‑occupied rehab in your city.
• Unlicensed contractors → Use the list or procurement steps provided by the agency.
• Not answering calls → Save unknown numbers; many agencies call from blocked or main lines.

Phone Scripts

Calling a state energy program (WAP/LIHEAP)

“Hi, my name is [Name]. I own and live at [address] in [county]. My income is around [amount] for a household of [size]. I need help with [heat/insulation/electric]. Can you tell me how to apply for LIHEAP and weatherization and what documents you need?”

Calling a city/county repair program

“Hello, I’m calling about owner‑occupied home repair. I live at [address]. My main issues are [roof leak/electrical/steps]. Could you please tell me if applications are open, the income limit, and whether the assistance is a grant, forgivable loan, or lien? Where can I download the application?”

Calling USDA Rural Development (Section 504)

“Hi, I’m a homeowner in [town/county]. I’m interested in Section 504 repairs. My household income is about [amount], and I’m [age 62+/under 62]. Could I do a quick pre‑screen, and can you email me the intake forms?”

Calling a nonprofit repair group

“Hello, I’m a low‑income homeowner in [city]. I saw your repair program online. I need [ramp/roof/heat]. What are your income limits, and when could I apply? Do you coordinate with city or trust fund programs?”

What the Money Really Looks Like (Plain Language)

• Grant: You do not pay it back. Some grants are “reimbursement”—you submit receipts. Disaster funds like IIAGP run on tight deadlines; see the state’s IIAGP page.
• Forgivable or deferred loan: A lien is recorded. If you sell or move before the term ends, some or all may be due. Cedar Rapids’ Minor Repair page notes a short lien period even for small grants.
• Regular loan: Monthly payment with interest. USDA 504 loans are 1% over up to 20 years per USDA’s program page. Example: $20,000 at 1% for 20 years is about $92/month (principal and interest only).
• Rebate: You buy the equipment and get cash back or an instant discount. MidAmerican’s rules (capped at 70% of equipment cost) are on the 2025 rebates page.

Loans are debt. Be careful if income is unstable. Ask how any lien or deed restriction could affect selling or leaving the home.

Nonprofits & Utility Programs Worth Calling

• Rebuilding Together Greater Des Moines: No‑cost safety repairs for qualifying owners; see program info on Rebuilding Together DSM.
• Greater Des Moines Habitat Repairs: Accessibility, exterior, weatherization, and critical systems via the Home Preservation program.
• Invest DSM: If you live in specific neighborhoods, the Block Challenge offers quick matching rebates.
• Utility rebates: Check MidAmerican’s discounts and rebates and Alliant Energy’s instant discounts and Smart Hours rewards.

FAQs (Iowa‑Specific)

Can I get help if I live in a manufactured home?
Many programs allow manufactured homes if you own the home and the land and the unit is taxed as real property. Ask your local agency on Iowa HHS’s WAP page and your city rehab office.

How long do I wait for weatherization?
Wait‑lists can be months depending on funding and staffing. Apply early via the HHS WAP page, then call every few weeks to confirm your place.

What if I’m just over the income limit?
Ask about priority rules (disability, seniors, kids), and check other options like utility rebates from MidAmerican’s rebates page or Invest DSM’s Block Challenge. Some city programs serve moderate‑income owners for exterior issues.

Does Iowa have state disaster help?
Yes. For Governor‑declared events, IIAGP can reimburse up to $7,000 per event. Apply via Iowa’s individual disaster programs. If FEMA Individual Assistance opens, use DisasterAssistance.gov.

Are there liens on “grants”?
Sometimes. For example, Cedar Rapids’ Minor Repair records a short lien even on small awards, as stated on the city’s Minor Repair page. Always ask how long the lien lasts.

I owe back taxes or my title is unclear. Can I still apply?
Many programs require current taxes and clear title. If you have heirs’ property or title issues, contact Iowa Legal Aid to explore fixes before you apply.

What about lead hazards?
If children live in your home and it was built before 1978, ask about lead hazard reduction like Council Bluffs’ LHR program. WAP also addresses health and safety basics during weatherization.

What if my roof is leaking now?
Document the leak, call your city’s rehab office, and ask if they have an emergency repair option. In larger cities, programs like Davenport’s DREAM can address exterior issues in eligible areas. Background tips on roofs are also covered in this roof repair guide.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick Checklist

• List problems (health, safety, accessibility) and take photos.
• Check eligibility with HUD’s Income Limits tool.
• Gather documents: ID, deed, property tax statement, utility bills, proof of income.
• Apply to multiple lanes: WAP/LIHEAP, city rehab, USDA 504 (rural), LHTF if available.
• Track case numbers, dates, and contacts in a notebook or on your phone.

Contacts (save these)

Resumen en español (Short Spanish Summary)

Este guía es para propietarios de vivienda en Iowa con ingresos bajos (adultos mayores, personas con discapacidades, veteranos, padres solteros y familias rurales). Si su hogar necesita reparaciones de salud o seguridad, empiece con estos programas:

• USDA Sección 504 (rural): Préstamos al 1% y pequeñas subvenciones para dueños de casa en áreas rurales. Llame a la oficina de USDA en Iowa a través de la página USDA Iowa y pregunte por “Section 504 Home Repair”.
• WAP (Weatherization): Reparaciones de eficiencia y seguridad gratis por medio de su agencia local. Vea la página de Iowa HHS de Weatherization.
• LIHEAP: Ayuda para la factura de energía y emergencias de calefacción. Solicite por medio de su agencia comunitaria; la información está en la página de LIHEAP.
• Ciudad/condado: Busque programas de rehabilitación para propietarios (por ejemplo, Cedar Rapids Minor Repair, Davenport DREAM).

Si hubo desastre, vea la ayuda estatal IIAGP en la página de Iowa Homeland Security y/o aplique con FEMA en DisasterAssistance.gov. Si necesita intérprete o ayuda para encontrar oficinas, llame al 211 Iowa y pida servicios en su idioma. Tenga listos estos documentos: identificación, comprobante de propiedad, impuestos de la propiedad, facturas de servicios y comprobantes de ingreso.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Check income limits with HUD’s Income Limits tool.
• Confirm USDA 504 rules, amounts, and forms on the USDA program page (and contact the USDA Iowa office).
• For WAP/LIHEAP, use the Iowa HHS LIHEAP page and WAP page.
• For disaster help, check Iowa’s individual assistance page and FEMA’s application checklist.
• For local repair dollars, look up your Local Housing Trust Fund using IFA’s LHTF page. For city rehab programs, browse your city’s community development pages.
• For referrals or language help, call 211 Iowa.

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