Home Repair Grants in Maine

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

If you’re not sure where to start, call 211 Maine and ask for home repair, weatherization, or accessibility referrals in your county. They can connect you to Community Action Agencies and city programs.

Top Programs in Maine (Quick Table)

Start with two or three of these based on your situation. Use the “Where to apply” link in each row.

Amounts are examples only. Always confirm current terms and funding on each program’s official page.

Short Federal Snapshot (with Maine links)

USDA Section 504 in Maine

Maine’s rural homeowners can use USDA 504 for health and safety repairs. The official USDA 504 page lists 1% loans up to 20 years and grants for owners age 62+; contact the statewide team on USDA Rural Development Maine. For background, this step‑by‑step USDA 504 guide explains documents and timelines.

Weatherization Assistance (WAP)

In Maine, WAP is administered by MaineHousing and delivered by local Community Action Agencies. Apply during your HEAP intake via MaineHousing’s Weatherization page, which also links to HEAP agency contacts on the MaineHousing site.

Disaster & FEMA help

After a Presidential disaster, homeowners may get repair grants through FEMA’s Individuals & Households Program. Maine’s guidance is posted on the MEMA Individual Assistance page. When a declaration is active, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA helpline noted on Maine’s federal assistance page.

You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (called “duplication of benefits”). If insurance or FEMA covered part of your roof, another program can usually only help with the remaining need.

Maine Programs (Core Section)

Maine Home Accessibility & Repair (MaineHousing)

This statewide grant program helps low‑income owners fix serious problems: wells and septic, heating and electrical, roof and chimney, structural and accessibility. The official MaineHousing Home Repair page lists eligible work and confirms it is a grant for owner‑occupants at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). You apply through your local agency found on MaineHousing’s HEAP/LIAP contacts page.

What to expect: an inspection, a scope of work focused on health/safety, and a queue based on funding. Ask the agency if any deed restrictions or recapture apply if you sell soon, and whether you must use approved contractors.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP provides no‑cost energy upgrades — insulation, air sealing, and related safety fixes — to reduce bills and make homes safer. MaineHousing’s WAP page explains that HEAP applicants are screened for WAP automatically; start at the Energy Programs page or by calling your local Community Action Agency.

Waitlists can be months long, especially ahead of winter. Apply early and keep your contact info updated with your agency.

Central Heating Improvement Program (CHIP)

CHIP repairs or replaces dangerous or failed central heating systems for HEAP‑eligible households. MaineHousing notes possible co‑pays and a limited rental benefit up to $600 for HEAP‑eligible tenants on the official CHIP page. CHIP is delivered by the same Community Action network listed on MaineHousing’s agency contacts page.

Lead Paint Hazard Remediation

For older homes with deteriorated lead paint, MaineHousing’s Lead Paint Remediation page explains eligibility (80% AMI for owner‑occupied) and how local agencies manage grants. Families with kids under 6 and homes with lead orders are prioritized; Maine DEP’s lead hazard page explains definitions and safe practices.

Portland, Lewiston, and Biddeford often have city‑run lead programs. Portland lists resources on its Lead‑Safe Housing page; Biddeford posts terms, including forgivable loans, on its lead program page.

Well Water Abatement

If your private well tests high for contaminants, MaineHousing’s Well Water Abatement Program can fund treatment or new systems for eligible households. Eligibility is tied to recent test results and AMI; the program page outlines required documents.

Heat Pumps and Insulation Rebates (Efficiency Maine)

Rebates can cut your out‑of‑pocket cost for upgrades. The heat pump rebates page shows enhanced amounts by income tier and lifetime caps; the insulation/air sealing page explains coverage percentages and caps. These are rebates — you or your contractor apply after installation (or receive instant discounts in some cases).

Rebates are reimbursement or discount, not a grant. Don’t start work until you read the current Efficiency Maine terms and vendor requirements.

USDA Section 504 Home Repair (rural Maine)

Very‑low‑income rural owners can apply for 1% loans up to 20 years, and owners age 62+ may qualify for grants to remove health/safety hazards. The official USDA 504 page lists: loan up to $40,000; grant up to $10,000 (or $15,000 in disaster areas). Contact your area office via USDA RD Maine.

Budget example: a $20,000 504 loan at 1% for 20 years is about $92/month for principal and interest (taxes/insurance separate). Loans are debt; be sure payments fit your budget.

City & County Programs

Many Maine cities and counties use Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME funds for owner‑occupied rehab or lead work. Check your city’s housing/community development office or your Community Action Agency. Start with these:

Smaller towns often partner through the state CDBG system. The state’s Office of Community Development explains eligibility on its CDBG page.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use income cutoffs based on Area Median Income (AMI). Some use 80% AMI, some 50%, and some use other thresholds. Check each program’s current rules with HUD’s Income Limits tool or the agency’s posted limits.

• Lewiston’s 2025 rehab pre‑application lists example limits such as $47,850 (1‑person) and $68,300 (4‑person). See the city’s posted “Current Income Guidelines: FY 2025” on the Lewiston application page.
• State programs like Home Repair and WAP link their limits from MaineHousing; start at the Home Repair page and confirm the AMI chart shown there.

Income limits and area definitions change. Use HUD’s Income Limits system for the exact numbers where you live, and ask the agency how they count your household income.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors

Start with MaineHousing’s Home Repair grant and WAP. For failed furnaces, ask your CAA about CHIP. If you’re rural with very low income, also try USDA 504. For an overview, see this plain‑language seniors repair guide.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Somerset County with a failing furnace and drafty attic could apply to CHIP for the heat system and to WAP for insulation; if rural and very low income, USDA 504 may help fill remaining safety needs after inspection.

Veterans

Ask about accessibility modifications under MaineHousing’s Home Repair. Veterans with service‑connected disabilities may also qualify for VA housing adaptation grants such as SAH/SHA or HISA (see VA’s housing adaptation pages on va.gov), and energy upgrades may be rebated through Efficiency Maine heat pumps.

Example: A veteran homeowner in Aroostook County who needs a ramp and wider bathroom door could combine a MaineHousing accessibility grant with a VA adaptation grant. Confirm that contractors follow lead‑safe and accessibility standards.

Disabled homeowners

Accessibility repairs are eligible under MaineHousing’s Home Repair. For ramps statewide (outside certain cities), Alpha One’s Critical Access Ramp Program can install movable ADA‑compliant ramps; Independent Living funds and services are described on Maine’s DVR Independent Living page.

Rural residents

Try USDA 504 first, then MaineHousing Home Repair and WAP. The 504 program details and Maine contacts are on USDA’s site, and state repair grants are posted on the MaineHousing page.

Families with young children

Lead safety comes first. Check Maine CDC’s homeowners lead info, and apply for MaineHousing’s lead remediation program. Cities like Biddeford post terms, including free inspections, on their lead program page.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Make a simple list of problems (leaks, heat, electrical, mold, access). Take photos.
2. Check your likely eligibility using HUD’s income limits tool.
3. Call your local Community Action Agency from MaineHousing’s agency contacts page and ask about HEAP/WAP, CHIP, and Home Repair.

This week

1. If rural and very low income, call USDA Rural Development’s Maine lines on the USDA RD Maine page and ask how to start a 504 application.
2. If you live in Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, Auburn, or Biddeford, check your city’s rehab/lead pages (e.g., Lewiston application, Biddeford lead).
3. For energy upgrades, review Efficiency Maine’s heat pump rebates and insulation rebates and find a registered vendor.

This month

1. Submit at least two applications (for example, MaineHousing Home Repair + WAP, plus USDA 504 if rural).
2. Keep a folder with ID, deed or tax bill, income proof, utility bills, and contractor estimates if requested. MaineHousing’s program page lists typical documents.
3. If you had disaster damage, follow MEMA’s Individual Assistance steps and then apply at DisasterAssistance.gov if a declaration opens.

Priorities: Rural & very low income → USDA 504 + WAP. Portland/Lewiston/Bangor → city rehab/lead page, then WAP, then state Home Repair; also check nonprofits like Habitat’s repair programs (Habitat Greater Portland, Habitat Greater Bangor).

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If denied or funds are out

• Ask for the denial in writing and the reason. Ask when to reapply or join a waitlist.
• Ask if a different funding source (CDBG/HOME) could still help this year.
• Check nonprofits that do repairs, such as Habitat repair programs and regional agencies like KVCAP.
• For safe financing, ask your counselor about USDA 504 loans (1% fixed) on the USDA page.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

• Starting work before approval → Wait for written approval or you may lose eligibility.
• Missing documents → Use a checklist and send clear copies; follow MaineHousing’s document list.
• Wrong program → Call 211 or your CAA to match needs with the right program (211 housing page).
• Unlicensed contractors → Ask your city or program for approved vendor lists (WAP uses registered crews via MaineHousing).
• Title issues (heirs’ property) → Contact legal aid such as Pine Tree Legal Assistance or Volunteer Lawyers Project for guidance before applying.

Loans are debt. If income is unstable, a 504 loan or city loan could put you at risk of default. Get counseling before you borrow.

Phone Scripts

Calling MaineHousing/CAA about WAP/HEAP/CHIP

“Hello, I’m a homeowner in [your town]. I have [brief issue]. I believe I may qualify for HEAP and Weatherization. Could you tell me how to apply and what documents I should bring? Also, can I be screened for CHIP and the Home Repair grant at the same time?” (See contacts on HEAP agency list.)

Calling your city’s rehab program

“Hi, I’m calling about your owner‑occupied housing rehabilitation. I live at [address]. My income is about [amount] for [household size]. I need [list top 2–3 repairs]. Are you accepting applications now, and what are the current income limits?” (For example, see Lewiston’s pre‑application.)

Calling USDA Rural Development (504)

“Hello, I live in [town/county] and own my home. I’m interested in Section 504 Home Repair for health and safety repairs. Can I do an intake to see if I qualify for a grant or a 1% loan? What documents should I gather?” (Find the right office on USDA RD Maine.)

Calling a nonprofit repair group

“Hi, I’m a low‑income homeowner and need help with [e.g., roof leak and grab bars]. Do you have a critical repair or accessibility program, and how do I apply?” (Examples: Habitat Greater Portland; Habitat Greater Bangor.)

FAQs (Maine‑Specific)

Do Maine programs help mobile/manufactured homes?

Yes, many do. WAP serves manufactured homes if structurally sound, and some repair funds specifically mention manufactured home repairs (KVCAP lists “Emergency Manufactured Home Repair” on its Home Repair page). Always ask your local CAA if your unit type is eligible.

What if I’m behind on taxes or my mortgage?

Fix that early. Some grants require you to be current on taxes and insurance. For mortgage help or foreclosure prevention, contact the state’s hotline on the Bureau of Consumer Credit’s Foreclosure Prevention page and legal aid like Pine Tree Legal Assistance.

How long do repairs take?

WAP and city rehab can take months due to inspections, bids, and seasonal demand. MaineHousing’s Weatherization page advises applying through HEAP intake, which can speed up screening.

Is “grant” money ever recorded as a lien?

Sometimes cities record forgivable loans or restrictions for a set period. Biddeford’s lead program describes a 0% loan forgiven after three years on its Available Assistance page. Always ask the program how repayment or forgiveness works in plain terms.

I have lead paint in a 1900s house. Where do I start?

Contact MaineHousing’s lead remediation program and your city’s lead program (e.g., Portland). For safe work practices, see Maine CDC’s lead info for homeowners.

Can I combine rebates and grants?

Often yes, but check rules. Efficiency Maine rebates (see heat pump) can pair with WAP or city grants if funding sources allow. Keep all approvals in writing before starting.

Disaster damaged my furnace and well — where do I go?

Report to insurance first, then follow MEMA’s Individual Assistance steps. If a FEMA declaration opens, apply via DisasterAssistance.gov. For heating systems, ask your CAA about CHIP.

English is not my first language. Can I get help?

Yes. Ask for interpreter services when you call 211 (see 211 Maine) or your local agency. Programs will schedule an interpreter for applications and inspections upon request.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Checklist

• List urgent problems with photos and dates.
• Look up AMI using HUD’s income limits tool.
• Gather: ID, proof of ownership (deed/tax bill), income (award letters, pay stubs), utility/fuel bills, and any code notices.
• Apply to 2–3 programs (e.g., Home Repair + WAP; add USDA 504 if rural).
• Track case numbers, dates, and phone/email contacts.

Contacts (save these)

Resumen en español (corto)

Este guía es para dueños de casa de bajos ingresos en Maine (personas mayores, con discapacidades, veteranos, padres solteros y familias). Si su hogar necesita reparaciones de salud o seguridad, empiece con los programas estatales y locales.

• Primero: aplique a la Asistencia de Energía y Climatización (HEAP/WAP) por medio de su agencia local de Acción Comunitaria. La página de MaineHousing Energía explica cómo empezar.
• Reparaciones de salud/seguridad y accesibilidad: vea el programa de Reparación y Accesibilidad de MaineHousing. Es una ayuda en forma de subvención (no se devuelve) para dueños ocupantes con ingresos bajos.
• Si vive en área rural y tiene ingresos muy bajos, pregunte por la ayuda de USDA Sección 504 (préstamo al 1% y, para mayores de 62, subvención).
• Para calefacción y eficiencia, revise los reembolsos de Efficiency Maine (bombas de calor) y aislamiento. Son reembolsos, no subvenciones.
• En ciudades como Portland, Lewiston, Bangor y Auburn, busque fondos locales (por ejemplo, la solicitud de Lewiston o plomo en Portland).

Si necesita ayuda para encontrar programas o un intérprete, llame al 211 (o visite 211 Maine) y pida referidos para “home repair”, “HEAP/WAP” y “USDA 504”. Guarde copias de su identificación, prueba de propiedad, ingresos y facturas. No comience trabajos antes de tener una aprobación escrita.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Confirm income limits with HUD’s Income Limits tool.
• For rural repair loans/grants, see the official USDA 504 page and the USDA RD Maine office.
• For WAP/HEAP/CHIP and state repair grants, use MaineHousing’s Home Repair page and Energy programs page.
• For disaster repair, follow Maine’s MEMA Individual Assistance page and apply through DisasterAssistance.gov when active.
• For statewide referrals, call 211 Maine and ask for local home repair, weatherization, and legal aid resources.

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