Home Repair Grants in Maryland

This guide is for Maryland homeowners who need help fixing serious home problems — seniors, people with disabilities, single parents, veterans, rural homeowners, and anyone stressed by paperwork and bills. You will see who might qualify, which programs to try first, how the money works, and step‑by‑step actions.

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 Maryland (house, condo, or manufactured home — some programs limit location).
• Your household has low or moderate income (see HUD’s 2025 limits).
• You need health, safety, or weatherization repairs (roof leaks, heat out, electrical/plumbing hazards, accessibility ramps, lead hazards, septic failures).
• You are willing to follow the process (inspection, bids, lien paperwork for some loans) and not start work before approval.

• If you’re not sure where to start or need an interpreter, call 211 Maryland contacts and ask for home repair resources and language assistance.

Top Programs in Maryland (Quick Table)

Dollar amounts below are examples only. Always confirm current rules on the official program page.

Short Federal Snapshot (with Links Out)

USDA 504 in Maryland

USDA’s Section 504 program offers 1% repair loans up to 20 years and small grants for seniors 62+ in eligible rural areas. As of December 2025, USDA lists a $40,000 loan cap and a $10,000 lifetime grant cap (higher in declared disasters) on the USDA 504 page. Confirm address eligibility and apply through the USDA MD office. For background and tips, see this plain‑language USDA 504 guide.

Weatherization Assistance (WAP) in Maryland

Maryland’s WAP is managed by DHCD and delivered by local weatherization agencies. It funds no‑cost energy and safety upgrades after an inspection. Start on the state’s state WAP page or the broader EmPOWER program.

Disaster Repair: FEMA + State

After a presidential disaster declaration, homeowners may get limited repair grants through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Apply at FEMA’s FEMA apply page and check details on Maryland’s MDEM IA page. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (called “duplication of benefits”). If FEMA covers part of your roof, another program usually can only help with the remaining need.

Maryland Programs (Core Section)

1) EmPOWER Maryland (Limited‑Income Energy Efficiency)

EmPOWER pays approved contractors to install energy and health/safety upgrades at no cost to eligible households (insulation, air sealing, minor HVAC repairs, lighting, and related safety fixes). Check current income thresholds on the EmPOWER program. Customers of BGE, Pepco, Delmarva, Potomac Edison, SMECO, or Washington Gas may also see utility‑specific guidance on the PSC EmPOWER page or utility portals like BGE limited income and Pepco income program.

2) Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) — Equipment Repairs

Separate from bill help, DHCD’s MEAP repairs or replaces failed heating, cooling, and water‑heating equipment for eligible households. As of December 2025, the official page notes a waitlist and that most applicants may not be served before summer 2026—see the MEAP equipment repairs notice. For bill assistance and USPP shut‑off protections, apply with DHS’s energy assistance office.

3) Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Program (MHRP)

MHRP funds essential health/safety rehab (roof, heat, electrical, plumbing, code issues). Loans may be 0% and deferred for very low incomes; others may be low‑interest and amortized. Applications are processed with local partners listed on the MHRP rehab loans page. Some jurisdictions handle their own CDBG/HOME rehab—ask your county housing office if state loans are “not available” where you live.

4) Accessible Homes for Seniors (AHS)

AHS pays for accessibility changes like ramps, roll‑in showers, and wider doorways. It offers 0% deferred loans and grants up to $25,000 to eligible senior households. See eligibility and the application on the AHS program. Seniors can also ask their local Maryland Access Point through 211 aging resources for help applying.

5) Lead Hazard Reduction (State)

If your home was built before 1978 and children visit or live there, consider the state’s lead hazard program. It provides grants or loans to eliminate lead hazards. Programs may coordinate with city/county lead initiatives and weatherization for efficient scheduling.

6) Septic Problems: Bay Restoration Fund (MDE)

For failing septic systems, Maryland’s Bay Restoration Fund supports upgrades to nitrogen‑reducing technology (BAT) and sometimes sewer connections. Rules are set by MDE and implemented by counties. Learn about state policy on MDE’s funding sources, and see local examples like Baltimore County BRF. Many counties fully fund the BAT unit for households under certain income thresholds per COMAR; confirm with your health department.

7) BeSMART Energy Efficiency Loan (Optional Financing)

To fill gaps not covered by grants, DHCD’s BeSMART loan currently lists 6.99% APR, up to $30,000 for up to 10 years for energy upgrades. Consider only if payments fit your budget.

City & County Programs

Many local governments run repair programs using CDBG/HOME funds. Start with your city/county housing department.

Smaller towns also often have “owner‑occupied rehab” using CDBG or HOME funds. Call City Hall or the county Community Development office and ask for “homeowner rehab.” If not available, ask about the state’s MHRP rehab loans.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Repair programs use different income cutoffs. Some use 50% of Area Median Income (AMI), some 80%, and others use specific dollar caps. Always check each program’s rules. For examples only (verify the latest numbers in HUD’s 2025 limits):

• Baltimore‑Columbia‑Towson Metro (HUD 2025): 4‑person “very low income” (50% AMI) about $65,150; 4‑person “low‑income” (80% AMI) about $104,200; 1‑person 80% AMI about $72,950. See page for Baltimore in the HUD 2025 limits.
• Washington‑Arlington‑Alexandria Metro (MD portion) (HUD 2025): 4‑person 50% AMI about $81,950; 4‑person 80% AMI about $106,800; 1‑person 80% AMI about $74,800. Confirm in the same HUD 2025 limits.

Remember: Programs can change. Always confirm the current amounts on the program page or with a housing counselor on HUD’s HUD Maryland page.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors

Start with Maryland’s AHS program and local accessibility work like Montgomery HARP. In Baltimore City, the roof program helps seniors/people with disabilities replace leaking roofs. For energy upgrades, apply through the EmPOWER program. For broader background, see a plain‑language seniors repairs guide.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in West Baltimore with very low income may combine City roof help with AHS ramp installation. Final approvals depend on inspection, income, and funding.

Veterans

Disabled veterans can seek VA disability housing grants for home adaptations. Review eligibility and amounts on VA’s disability housing grants page, and ask your VA medical team about HISA modifications. You can still apply to state/local programs; tell each agency about any VA award to avoid duplication of benefits.

Disabled homeowners

Beyond AHS, look at EmPOWER’s no‑cost measures and local rehab loans (e.g., Baltimore County rehab). Call 211 aging resources if you need help coordinating applications or an interpreter.

Rural residents

Start with USDA 504 (1% loans; small grants for 62+) via the USDA MD office. Many rural counties also process state MHRP rehab loans and have Bay Restoration septic grants through their health departments.

Families with children

Ask about lead hazard help on the state’s lead hazard program. For energy savings and comfort, apply to EmPOWER. In Prince George’s, consider PG County HOPP.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

• List urgent problems (heat out, electrical hazard, roof leak). Take clear photos.
• Gather documents: ID, deed or tax bill, homeowner’s insurance, income proof, and recent utility bills. See DHS’s energy assistance page for common documents.
• If you’re rural and very low income → contact the USDA MD office about 504 and ask about pre‑qualification.
• If your utility bills are high or equipment failed → apply to EmPOWER and OHEP bill help.

This week

• Apply to one state repair program (e.g., MHRP rehab loans or AHS program), plus your city/county rehab office.
• In Baltimore or Prince George’s → submit interest to Baltimore rehab page or PG County HOPP.
• If you have title issues (heirs’ property) → call Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service or Maryland Legal Aid and ask about help clearing title.

This month

• Track every application number, contact name, and date.
• Return calls quickly; agencies often move on if they can’t reach you.
• Line up two licensed, insured contractors for quotes when the agency asks. Do not sign a construction contract until the program approves scope and funding.
• Expect delays: weatherization waitlists can be months; MEAP equipment work is currently backlogged per the MEAP equipment repairs page.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied, ask for the reason in writing and whether there is an appeal or re‑review. Note the deadline.
• Ask to be put on the next waitlist and for referrals to partner programs (city/county rehab, nonprofits like Rebuilding Together Baltimore or Habitat Metro Maryland).
• Consider safe loans only when grants/deferred loans are not available (state BeSMART loan); make sure payments fit your budget.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

• Starting work before approval → Wait for a written commitment and approved scope.
• Using unlicensed contractors → Ask the agency for approved contractors.
• Missing documents → Use checklists from energy assistance page and program forms.
• Not answering calls → Save agency numbers; set phone to accept unknown calls during the application period.
• Title problems (heirs’ property) → Get help from MVLS intake or the courts’ legal help directory.
• Back property taxes → Apply for the state Homeowners’ Tax Credit to reduce your bill.

Phone Scripts

Keep it simple. Have your address, household size, income estimate, and a 1‑sentence problem description ready.

• Calling WAP/EmPOWER: “Hi, I’m a homeowner in [city/county]. My [heat/roof/electric] is unsafe and my income is about [X]. I’d like to apply for the EmPOWER weatherization program and any emergency equipment help. What are my next steps?” (See EmPOWER program.)
• Calling City/County Rehab: “Hello, I live in [address]. I am an owner‑occupant with low income and have [roof/electrical/plumbing] hazards. I’m calling about homeowner rehab programs. How do I pre‑apply and what documents are required?” (Find links in the table above.)
• Calling USDA about 504: “Hi, I’m in [town/county]. I own and live in my home and have very low income. I’d like to pre‑qualify for the Section 504 repair loan/grant. Can you tell me the forms and where to send them?” (Contact the USDA MD office.)
• Calling a nonprofit: “Hello, I’m an income‑eligible homeowner in [county]. I need help with [safety/accessibility] repairs. Do you have an intake for free or sliding‑scale repairs?” (Try Rebuilding Together Baltimore or Habitat Choptank.)

FAQs (Maryland‑Specific)

• Do programs help with manufactured homes? Many do if the home is your primary residence and you own the unit (and often the land). EmPOWER (program page) and local rehab loans may allow it. Ask your county office and the state MHRP rehab loans contact about manufactured‑home specifics.
• My furnace failed — which should I try first? Apply to MEAP equipment repairs and EmPOWER. Also submit to your city/county rehab program. Call 211 Maryland contacts if you need faster triage or a warm‑line referral.
• How long do Maryland waitlists run? Weatherization can take months; state MEAP repairs are currently backlogged per the MEAP page. Put in multiple applications and keep documents ready.
• What about septic failures? Ask your county health department about Bay Restoration grants and review MDE’s funding sources. Some counties fully fund BAT units for households under set income levels.
• Will a “grant” put a lien on my home? Some local “grants” are forgivable loans that record a lien for 5–10 years. If you sell or move early, you may owe part back. Check terms on Baltimore’s rehab programs and county pages.
• My income is just over the limit. Try programs with higher caps, ask about special hardship exceptions, and check utility offerings like Pepco’s moderate‑income offering. Also apply for the state Homeowners’ Tax Credit to free up budget.
• I have heirs’ property/title issues. Can I still apply? Many programs require clear title before closing. Contact MVLS or the courts’ legal help directory for help with “tangled title.”
• Disaster repairs in Maryland? If there is a federal declaration, register via FEMA’s apply page and check Maryland’s MDEM IA page. Keep receipts and photos. Remember duplication‑of‑benefits rules.
• Water/sewer bills in Baltimore? While not a repair grant, the City’s Water4All program can lower monthly bills and help you stay current, which some repair programs require.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick Checklist

• List problems by urgency (life‑safety first).
• Check eligibility ranges in HUD’s 2025 limits.
• Gather documents: ID, proof of ownership, income, insurance, utility bills.
• Apply to 2–3 programs: a state program (MHRP/AHS/EmPOWER), your city/county rehab, and USDA 504 if rural.
• If denied: get the reason in writing, ask about appeal, and request referrals.
• Track case numbers, dates, and contacts in a simple notebook or phone note.

Contact Summary

Resumen en español (Short Spanish Summary)

Este guía es para dueños de vivienda en Maryland con ingresos bajos o moderados que necesitan reparaciones esenciales (techo con filtraciones, calefacción dañada, problemas eléctricos o de plomería, accesibilidad, pintura con plomo, pozo séptico). Empiece con programas que no requieren pago:

• Clima y energía: Solicite a EmPOWER Maryland (mejoras gratis en su hogar) en la página EmPOWER. Para ayuda con facturas, contacte a OHEP/LIHEAP.
• Reparaciones mayores: Revise los préstamos con 0% o diferidos del estado (MHRP/AHS) en MHRP y AHS. En áreas rurales, pida el programa USDA 504 con interés del 1% a través de la oficina USDA.
• Programas locales: Baltimore, Prince George’s, Montgomery y otros condados tienen programas de reparación. Busque “rehabilitación para propietarios” en las páginas del condado/ciudad (por ejemplo, Baltimore o Prince George’s).

Pasos: Haga una lista de daños, junte documentos (identificación, escritura, ingresos, seguro), aplique a 2–3 programas y guarde los números de caso. Si necesita intérprete o referencias locales, llame al 211 Maryland y pida ayuda en su idioma. En desastres, solicite asistencia de FEMA en la página para aplicar. No empiece trabajos antes de la aprobación por escrito.

Money Basics — What to Expect

• Grants: No reembolso. A veces se registra como “perdón” con condiciones (p. ej., permanecer 5–10 años).
• Deferred/forgivable loans: Se registra un lien. Si vende o se muda antes del período, podría devolver parte o todo.
• USDA 504 loans: 1% hasta 20 años. Ejemplo: $20,000 ≈ $92/mes; $40,000 ≈ $184/mes (solo capital e interés).
• Reembolsos/Rebates: Usted paga primero, luego recibe reembolso o descuento en factura (más común en eficiencia energética).
• FEMA/Desastres: No puede recibir pago doble por el mismo daño.
• Impuestos/beneficios: Pregunte a la agencia o a un profesional si el dinero afecta impuestos o beneficios como SSI/SSDI/SNAP.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Confirm local income thresholds in HUD’s 2025 limits.
• For rural repair loans/grants, read the official USDA 504 page and contact the USDA MD office.
• For weatherization and no‑cost upgrades, check DHCD’s EmPOWER program and state WAP page.
• For disaster repairs, review the MDEM IA page and FEMA’s apply page.
• Need a referral or interpreter? Call 211 Maryland contacts.

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.