Home Repair Grants in Massachusetts

This guide is for low-income homeowners in Massachusetts who need help fixing health and safety problems at home. It shows who may qualify, the first 2–3 programs to try, how the money really 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

If any of these describe you, keep reading:

• Seniors, disabled homeowners, single parents, veterans, or rural homeowners.
• Home has safety issues like roof leaks, no heat, electrical hazards, or accessibility needs.
• Household income is low for your area (see the HUD income limits page to check).

Quick check before applying:

• You own and live in the Massachusetts home (your primary residence).
• Repairs are basic health, safety, weatherization, or accessibility—not luxury updates.
• You can provide ID, proof of ownership, and income papers if asked.

Top Programs in Massachusetts (Quick Table)

Amounts are examples only. Always confirm current rules on the official program page before you apply.

Program	Type	Example max help ($)	Main audience	Where to apply
USDA Section 504 Home Repair	Loan at 1% / grant (62+)	Loan up to $40,000; grant up to $10,000 (disaster grant up to $15,000). Most awards are lower.	Very low income, rural; seniors for grants	USDA’s CT‑MA‑RI 504 page
Weatherization Assistance (WAP)	Grant (no payback)	Average package around $4,725; varies by home and utility area	Income-eligible homeowners and renters	MA WAP info at Mass.gov
Mass Save Income Eligible + HEAT Loan	No‑cost upgrades; 0% loan	No-cost insulation/air sealing; 0% loan up to $25,000	Low/moderate income; all utilities	Mass Save income‑eligible and 0% HEAT Loan
Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP)	0% deferred loan (lien)	Up to $50,000 (manufactured homes up to $30,000)	Seniors & people with disabilities	Official HMLP program page
Get the Lead Out (GTLO)	Deferred/low‑interest loan	About $30,000–$45,000 depending on unit count	Owner‑occupants & qualifying landlords	MassHousing’s GTLO page
Community Septic Management Program	Municipal betterment loan	Varies by town; low interest via property tax bill	Homes with failing septic (Title 5)	Clean Water Trust’s CSMP page
Boston: Seniors Save	Grant + 0% deferred loan	Grant up to $8,000 toward heating replacement	Boston seniors 60+ with limited income	Boston’s Seniors Save page
Cambridge: Home Improvement Program	Low‑interest/deferred loan	Varies; code, energy, and lead safety work	Income‑eligible owner‑occupants	Cambridge’s HIP page
Springfield: Emergency Home Repair	0% deferred loan, forgivable over 5 years	Single emergency item; scale varies by need	Low‑income owner‑occupants	Springfield’s Emergency Repair page
Lowell: Owner‑Occupied Rehab	0% deferred loan (lien)	Based on inspection and scope	Low/moderate‑income owner‑occupants	Lowell’s rehab program page

Short Federal Snapshot (with Links Out)

USDA Section 504 in Massachusetts

In rural Massachusetts, the USDA 504 program offers 1% repair loans (up to 20 years) and limited grants for seniors 62+ to remove health and safety hazards. Current New England details, including $40,000 loan and $10,000 grant caps, are posted on USDA’s CT‑MA‑RI 504 page. For a plain‑English explainer, see this USDA 504 guide.

Weatherization (WAP) in Massachusetts

Massachusetts’ Weatherization program, run through local agencies, provides no‑cost insulation, air sealing, and related safety fixes; the state reports an average measure package around $4,725. Start at the program overview on Mass.gov WAP and ask your LIHEAP/WAP agency about wait‑lists.

FEMA & Disaster Help

After a federally declared disaster in Massachusetts, homeowners may apply for FEMA’s repair help under Individual Assistance. Begin at the state’s FEMA Individual Assistance page, then submit online via DisasterAssistance.gov. Important: you cannot be paid twice for the same damage (“duplication of benefits”). If FEMA already paid for part of your roof, a later program can only address the remaining unmet need.

Massachusetts Programs (Core Section)

Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP)

HMLP offers 0% interest, deferred loans to make a home accessible so seniors or people with disabilities can stay safely at home. Loans are typically repaid when the home is sold or transferred (a lien is recorded). The statewide administrator lists loan amounts up to $50,000 (and up to $30,000 for manufactured homes) on the HMLP program page. If you’re eligible, this is often the fastest route for ramps, bathroom adaptations, and similar accessibility projects.

Money facts: This is a loan, not a grant. It’s 0% with no monthly payment, but a lien is recorded. Ask the HMLP regional provider to explain the lien and what happens if you sell or transfer title, and review the HMLP loan terms in writing.

Lead Paint: Get the Lead Out + State Tax Credit

MassHousing’s GTLO program offers low‑ or no‑interest financing for lead abatement, with deferred terms for many owner‑occupants. Program features and typical loan ranges are listed on GTLO’s page. Massachusetts also offers a state Lead Paint Removal Tax Credit—Mass.gov explains up to $3,000 per unit with a Letter of Compliance (and up to $1,000 for interim control, which counts toward the $3,000 cap). Many cities also act as local GTLO agencies; see the GTLO agency list to find your city contact.

Mass Save: Income-Eligible Benefits + 0% HEAT Loan

Mass Save provides no‑cost insulation, air sealing, health/safety fixes, and in some cases heat pump or panel upgrades for eligible households. Start with the Income‑Eligible Program; if you don’t qualify, you may still use the 0% HEAT Loan (up to $25,000 as of January 2025) to finance energy‑related repairs after an assessment. Some neighborhoods qualify for extra help through Designated Equity Communities with streamlined, no‑cost weatherization.

Money facts: Upgrades are grants (no payback). The HEAT Loan is real debt at 0% interest; you must repay the principal. Confirm eligible measures and apply through Mass Save before starting work.

Septic Repairs: Community Septic Management Program (CSMP)

If you have a failing septic (Title 5), your town may offer low‑interest betterment loans placed on your tax bill. The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust describes the CSMP structure on its CSMP guide. Ask your town’s Board of Health or Treasurer if they participate and how to apply.

Heating Help & Weatherization Wait‑Lists

For help with winter heating bills, apply for LIHEAP (Home Energy Assistance) through the state portal on Mass.gov. Applications open October 1 for the heating season (Nov 1–Apr 30). Many WAP agencies are the same local offices—ask the LIHEAP intake worker about weatherization and any Mass Save energy upgrades available in your utility area.

City & County Programs

These local programs are examples. Funding opens and closes. Check each city page for current status and how to apply.

City/County	Program	Example help	Who qualifies	How to apply
Boston	Seniors Save; Home Repair Loans; Lead Safe Boston	Heating system grant up to $8,000; 0% deferred loans; lead abatement support	Seniors and income‑eligible owners	Boston’s Seniors Save and Home Repair Loan pages
Worcester	Owner‑Occupied Rehab (code fixes)	Grants/loans for sanitary and building code issues	Owner‑occupants; income rules apply	City’s Housing & Grants page
Springfield	Emergency Home Repair	0% deferred loan forgiven over 5 years for a single urgent repair	Income‑eligible owner‑occupants	Springfield’s Emergency Repair page
Cambridge	Home Improvement Program (HIP)	Low‑interest/deferred loans for code, energy, and lead work	Income‑eligible owners (condos, 1–4 unit)	City’s HIP page
Lowell	Owner‑Occupied Rehab	0% deferred loans for health/safety repairs	Low/moderate‑income owner‑occupants	Lowell’s rehab program
Lynn	Residential Rehab Loans; Lead Abatement	$0–3% loans; lead grants up to $8,000 per unit	Income‑eligible owner‑occupants	City’s rehab program and lead program
Quincy	Housing Rehabilitation (Office of Healthy Homes)	0% loans for needed repairs; healthy homes work	Income‑eligible owner‑occupants	Quincy’s Office of Healthy Homes
Brockton	Homeowner Rehab	0% deferred loans prioritized for emergencies	Low/moderate‑income homeowners	BRA rehab page
New Bedford	Lead remediation partners	Local GTLO access; city water service line replacement initiatives	Owner‑occupants and qualifying landlords	See GTLO’s agency list for New Bedford OHCD; city’s lead service line page

Tip: Many smaller towns get home repair funds through state CDBG awards. Call City/Town Hall and ask for “Community Development” or “Housing Rehabilitation” to see if owner‑occupied rehab is open.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use different income cutoffs. Some use 80% of Area Median Income (AMI), some 50%, and others use State Median Income (for energy programs). Always check the actual rule on the program page or use HUD’s Income Limits tool.

• Boston‑Cambridge area (4‑person household): 80% AMI is $132,300 (FY 2025). See the “LOW‑INCOME” line in HUD’s FY 2025 tables.
• Worcester HMFA (4‑person household): 80% AMI is $99,750 (FY 2025), per HUD’s income limit tables.
• Springfield MSA (4‑person household): 80% AMI is $95,650 (FY 2025), per HUD’s tables.

These are examples only, to help you gauge fit. Always double‑check your exact area and household size on HUD’s income limits page.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors

If you’re 60+, start with state HMLP for accessibility changes (0% deferred) on the HMLP page, then call your city’s rehab program (for example, Boston’s Senior Home Repair). For energy, ask Mass Save’s Income‑Eligible Program about no‑cost upgrades. For background tips, this plain‑language seniors guide is helpful.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Dorchester with limited income replaces a failing boiler through Boston’s Seniors Save and adds attic insulation through Mass Save’s income‑eligible program. Amounts depend on inspection and funding.

Veterans

Service‑connected disabled Veterans can apply for VA adapted housing grants (SAH/SHA/TRA) on the VA’s adapted housing page. These can pair with local rehab or HMLP for accessibility. Apply online or follow the “How to apply” steps on the VA’s application page.

Example: A Veteran homeowner in Springfield adds a first‑floor accessible shower. They use a VA grant for major accessibility and consult the city’s Emergency Home Repair program for urgent safety items.

Disabled Homeowners

For disability‑related changes, HMLP (0% deferred) is often the best first step—see the HMLP page for eligibility and contacts. Energy‑related fixes for health and safety (like ventilation or knob‑and‑tube mitigation tied to insulation) may be covered by Mass Save income‑eligible.

Rural Residents

If your home is in a USDA‑eligible town, consider a 1% loan—or grant if 62+—under the USDA 504 program. Check the New England details and eligibility map via USDA’s CT‑MA‑RI 504 page. Weatherization grants can also help with insulation and air sealing—see WAP.

Families with children

If a child under 6 lives in a home built before 1978, check for lead risks. Start with MassHousing’s GTLO loans and the state’s lead tax credit info. Your city may also offer lead assistance through Community Development.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. List urgent hazards (roof leaks, no heat, electrical issues, accessibility). Take photos.
2. Check your likely eligibility with HUD’s income limits tool.
3. Call Mass 2‑1‑1 and ask for home repair and energy referrals near you; start files for case numbers and contacts (see Mass 2‑1‑1).

This week

1. If rural and very low income: contact USDA via the CT‑MA‑RI 504 page.
2. Set up an energy assessment: use Mass Save income‑eligible or standard audit and ask about the 0% HEAT Loan.
3. If you need accessibility repairs: call HMLP from the state HMLP page for your regional provider.
4. In Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Cambridge, Lowell, Lynn, or Quincy: apply to your city rehab program (see table links above).

This month

1. Gather documents: ID, deed or tax bill, income proof, mortgage statement, and contractor estimates if required. Many programs need two written bids.
2. If lead is suspected: ask about GTLO via MassHousing and check the state tax credit.
3. For septic failures: contact your town about the CSMP loan.
4. Track everything: program names, case numbers, who you spoke with, dates, and next steps.

Time expectations: WAP/Mass Save work may take months; city rehab programs often have wait‑lists. Emergency items (no heat, unsafe wiring, dangerous leaks) may be prioritized, but always ask in writing.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If you’re denied or funds are exhausted:

• Ask for a written reason and whether there’s an appeal or wait‑list.
• Ask when the next funding round opens (many city/CDBG programs open annually).
• Check nonprofits doing repairs, like Rebuilding Together Boston or Western MA’s Revitalize CDC, and area Habitat affiliates such as Greater Springfield Habitat.
• Consider 0% energy financing via the HEAT Loan for energy‑related items.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

• Starting work before approval → Wait for the written approval/loan closing.
• Missing documents → Use a checklist; ask staff exactly what’s missing.
• Not returning calls → Save agency numbers; return calls within 24–48 hours.
• Hiring unlicensed contractors → Ask your city program for contractor rules.
• Unclear title/heirs’ property → Ask for a list of acceptable ownership proofs; call Mass 2‑1‑1 for legal aid referrals if needed (Mass 2‑1‑1 info).

FEMA/disaster rule: You cannot be paid twice for the same damage. If FEMA or your insurance paid for part of a repair, other programs can only help with any remaining unmet need. See the state’s FEMA guidance.

Phone Scripts (Short & Practical)

Calling a state energy program (LIHEAP/WAP)

“Hello, I’m a homeowner in [city]. I’d like to apply for heating help and weatherization. My home has [brief issue]. Can you tell me what documents you need and the soonest intake appointment? Also, is there a wait‑list?”

Calling a city/county rehab program

“Hi, I own and live in a [single/two/four‑unit] home in [city]. I have health and safety repair needs: [one‑line]. Could you confirm if your owner‑occupied rehab program is open, and what the basic eligibility and paperwork are?”

Calling USDA Rural Development about 504

“Hello, I’m calling about the Section 504 Home Repair program. I live in [town]. My income is about [amount] for a [household size] household. Do I qualify for the 1% loan, and if 62+, the grant? What documents do you need to start?”

Calling a nonprofit (Habitat/Rebuilding Together)

“Hi, I’m a low‑income homeowner in [city/town]. I have [brief issue]. Do you have a repair program or an application wait‑list? If not, can you refer me to local partners that handle urgent safety repairs?”

FAQs (Massachusetts‑Specific)

Are manufactured/mobile homes eligible?

Sometimes. For accessibility, HMLP lists up to $30,000 for manufactured homes on the HMLP page. Weatherization (WAP/Mass Save) can serve mobile homes depending on conditions. USDA 504 may help if the home is on a permanent foundation in an eligible rural area—check the New England 504 page at USDA RD.

What if my income is a little over the limit?

Try programs with higher caps or broader participation. For example, Boston’s repair loan considers incomes up to 135% AMI (see the city’s repair loan page). Also consider the 0% HEAT Loan for energy‑related work.

Can renters get help?

Yes for energy: Mass Save’s income‑eligible program serves both renters and owners with landlord permission. Lead funds like GTLO can sometimes assist investor‑owners if tenants meet income rules (see MassHousing GTLO).

How do liens work on “forgivable” or “deferred” loans?

Many city rehab and HMLP loans are recorded as liens—no monthly payments, but the amount may be due if you sell, move, refinance (sometimes with exceptions), or transfer the home before the forgiveness period ends. Boston explains this clearly on its Senior Home Repair page. Always get lien terms in writing.

How long does weatherization take?

Expect months, especially in winter. The state’s WAP overview notes high‑priority households (elderly, disabled, young children). Keep your file active and respond quickly to scheduling calls.

Is there help after a storm or flood?

Yes. Check the state’s FEMA Individual Assistance page to see if your county is declared and then apply via DisasterAssistance.gov. Remember the duplication‑of‑benefits rule—no double payments for the same damage.

Lead paint is a concern. Where do I start?

For financing, see MassHousing’s Get the Lead Out. For credits, see the state’s lead tax credit page. Many cities also have separate lead grants listed on their housing pages.

Property taxes or mortgage behind—will that block repair help?

Some programs require taxes and mortgage to be current. If you’re behind, call Mass 2‑1‑1 for mortgage/tax referral options (see Mass 2‑1‑1) and ask the repair program if a payment plan will satisfy eligibility.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick Checklist

• List problems: roof, heat, electrical, plumbing, lead, accessibility.
• Check income: use HUD’s income limits page.
• Gather papers: ID, deed/tax bill, mortgage statement, income proof, utility bills, photos.
• Apply to 2–3 programs: one energy (Mass Save/WAP), one city rehab (if available), and one state/federal (HMLP or USDA 504).
• Get two contractor estimates if required (licensed/insured).
• Track case numbers, contacts, and deadlines.

Contacts (save these)

Agency	What they do	Start here
HUD Income Limits	Check income eligibility by area/size	HUD’s income limits tool
USDA Rural Development (504)	1% home repair loans; grants for 62+ (rural)	USDA’s CT‑MA‑RI 504 page
Weatherization / LIHEAP	No‑cost weatherization; heat assistance	WAP info and LIHEAP application via Mass.gov
Mass Save	No‑cost insulation; 0% HEAT Loan	Income‑Eligible and HEAT Loan
HMLP	0% deferred loans for accessibility	HMLP program page
Lead safety	Lead loans and tax credit	GTLO and state lead credit
MEMA / FEMA	Disaster repair assistance	MEMA’s FEMA IA page and apply online
Mass 2‑1‑1	Statewide referral help, 24/7	Mass 2‑1‑1 site

Resumen en español (Short Spanish Summary)

Este resumen es para dueños de casa de bajos ingresos en Massachusetts. Si su hogar tiene problemas de seguridad (techo con filtraciones, falta de calefacción, cableado peligroso, moho, o barreras de accesibilidad), existen programas que pueden ayudar.

• Arreglos de energía y clima: Pida una evaluación de energía y mejoras sin costo con el programa de Mass Save (ingresos elegibles). También puede aplicar al préstamo 0% HEAT Loan para equipos de calefacción/aislamiento.
• Reparaciones rurales y personas mayores: El programa USDA 504 ofrece préstamos al 1% (y becas para mayores de 62) en áreas rurales. Revise la página regional de USDA 504.
• Accesibilidad (adultos mayores/discapacidad): El Home Modification Loan Program otorga préstamos al 0% diferidos (sin pagos mensuales) para rampas, baños accesibles, etc.
• Plomo en pintura: Vea el préstamo de Get the Lead Out y el crédito estatal por eliminación de plomo.
• Desastres: Si hay declaración federal, solicite ayuda de FEMA usando la página de MEMA/FEMA. No se puede pagar dos veces por el mismo daño.
• ¿Necesita ayuda para empezar o intérprete? Llame al 2‑1‑1 y pida servicios de interpretación.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

Rules, amounts, and income limits change. Before you apply or sign anything, confirm details on official pages such as HUD’s income limits tool, USDA’s 504 program page, the state’s WAP info, MEMA’s FEMA assistance page, and the statewide helpline at Mass 2‑1‑1. If you have questions about taxes or benefits, ask the agency or a tax professional whether a grant or loan could affect SSI, SSDI, or SNAP.

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Money clarity examples: A USDA 504 loan at 1% for 20 years has a low payment. For example, $20,000 is about $92/month for principal and interest (taxes/insurance not included). Deferred or forgivable loans (city/HMLP) are usually recorded as liens; you may have to repay if you sell, move, or transfer the home before the period ends—get the terms in writing.

Need a roof? Many programs can fund roof work when it’s a health/safety issue. For orientation, see this short roof repair grants explainer, then apply through your city rehab, USDA 504 (rural), or Mass Save if the roof is a barrier to insulation.