Home Repair Grants in Nevada
This plain‑language guide is for Nevada homeowners who need help fixing serious housing problems. It highlights who may qualify, the best programs to try first, what the money looks like (grant, forgivable loan, or loan), and the exact steps to apply—plus what to do if you’re denied.
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
- Seniors, people with disabilities, single parents, veterans, and rural homeowners living anywhere in Nevada.
- Households with low or very low income (often based on “Area Median Income,” or AMI). Use HUD’s income limits tool to compare your household size and location.
- Owner‑occupied homes that need health, safety, accessibility, or energy‑efficiency repairs.
Quick check before you spend time applying:
- You own and live in the home in Nevada (title is in your name; or you can show legal life estate/heirship documentation). If title is complicated, ask the Nevada courts’ Self‑Help Center about legal aid.
- Your household income likely falls within the program’s income limits (verify through HUD’s income limits tool).
- The repair addresses a safety, habitability, accessibility, or essential system issue (roof, heat/AC, plumbing, electrical, weatherization, sewer, or similar).
Top Programs in Nevada (Quick Table)
| Program | Type | Example max help ($) | Mainly helps | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Nevada) | Loan + Grant | Loan up to $40,000 at ~1% (20 yrs); Grant up to $10,000 (age 62+). Most awards are lower and based on inspection and budget. | Very low‑income rural owner‑occupants; seniors 62+ may get grants | USDA’s Nevada 504 page (check “To Apply” + local RD office) |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Free measures (no repayment) | No cash; installs like insulation, HVAC safety repairs, air sealing; scope varies by audit and funds | Low‑income owners and renters (with landlord approval) | DOE’s WAP application steps + Nevada providers: HELP of Southern Nevada, CSA Reno, RNDC rural |
| Nevada Energy Assistance Program (EAP) | Utility credit | One annual credit paid to your utility; amount varies by need and budget | Low‑income households with high energy costs | DWSS Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP + UEC) |
| HEROS – Home Energy Retrofit Opportunities for Seniors | Free energy upgrades | No cash; upgrades to cut bills and improve safety (60+ and income‑eligible) | Seniors 60+ who own and live in their home | GOE’s HEROS program page (contact listed provider in your area) |
| City of Las Vegas Housing Rehabilitation | Grant/forgivable assistance | Varies by need and funds; expect critical health/safety repairs | Low/mod‑income owner‑occupants in Las Vegas city limits | Las Vegas Housing Rehabilitation (apply via Neighborly portal) |
| City of Reno Older Adults Home Modification | Free modifications | Safety/a11y upgrades; 62+ up to program capacity | Seniors ≤ 80% AMI within Reno city limits | Reno’s Older Adults modification program (managed by RTNNV) |
| RNDC Homeowner Rehabilitation (rural counties) | Forgivable lien | Varies; often 3‑year forgivable lien under HMNI or similar | Low‑income rural owner‑occupants in listed counties | RNDC Homeowner Rehabilitation (see eligible counties + waitlist) |
| Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada (RTSNV) | Free critical repairs | One major or a few smaller critical repairs (roof, HVAC, water heater, plumbing) | Low‑income seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners in Clark/Nye | RTSNV programs & services (apply online or call 702‑259‑4900) |
| FEMA Individual Assistance (after declared disasters) | Grant + possible SBA loan | Basic repairs to make home safe/sanitary; amounts depend on inspection | Owners in federally declared disaster areas | Apply at the federal disaster assistance portal or check FEMA’s Nevada page |
Short Federal Snapshot (with Nevada links)
- USDA Section 504 (rural home repair). In Nevada’s rural counties, USDA offers 1% repair loans and small grants for seniors 62+. Start on USDA’s Nevada Section 504 page, then contact your local Rural Development office. For a plain‑language overview, see this USDA 504 guide.
- Weatherization Assistance (WAP). Nevada’s WAP is delivered by local agencies. Find application steps at DOE’s how to apply for WAP, then contact HELP of Southern Nevada, CSA Reno, or RNDC.
- FEMA disaster help. After a presidential disaster declaration, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov and watch FEMA’s apply FAQ. For state updates, check Nevada’s Office of Emergency Management.
Nevada Programs (Core Section)
1) Home Energy Retrofit Opportunities for Seniors (HEROS)
The Governor’s Office of Energy funds HEROS to cut bills and improve safety for income‑eligible seniors (60+) who own and occupy their home. Work is done by approved providers and typically includes weatherization diagnostics, safety checks, and energy upgrades. There is no repayment requirement.
- See GOE’s HEROS program page for age and income rules (≤ 200% of poverty) and the list of service providers.
- If you’re not sure which provider covers your county, check the HEROS service areas & providers list or call the provider nearest you (HELP of Southern Nevada, CSA Reno, or RNDC).
Money facts: This is a grant‑style retrofit. You don’t receive cash; the program pays contractors directly. No lien. No repayment.
2) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
WAP focuses on energy and safety: insulation, air sealing, HVAC repairs/replacement, and related health measures. Owners and renters (with landlord permission) can qualify, and EAP recipients often meet income rules. Applications are processed by local agencies.
- Find the application process on DOE’s WAP page, then contact a Nevada provider: HELP of Southern Nevada (Clark), CSA (Washoe/Reno), or RNDC (rural counties).
- Nevada’s regulations set income eligibility generally around 150% of poverty, with coordination through EAP; see NAC 702 at the Legislature’s energy assistance rules.
Money facts: No repayment. Work is targeted by an energy audit and safety inspection. Expect waitlists, especially in winter. Apply early.
3) Energy Assistance Program (EAP – LIHEAP + Universal Energy Charge)
Nevada’s EAP helps with annual utility costs and may connect you to weatherization. Benefits are paid directly to your energy provider and are based on income, household size, and energy burden.
- Apply year‑round (July 1–June 30) through DWSS on the state’s Energy Assistance Program page.
- For emergency gas bill help, Southwest Gas runs Energy Share through local nonprofits.
Money facts: This is a bill credit, not a repair grant. It can free up your budget to address minor fixes while you pursue repair programs.
4) City & Local Home Repair Funds
Many Nevada communities use HUD’s CDBG/HOME funds to repair owner‑occupied homes. Awards and rules change by city, and assistance may be structured as a grant, a forgivable lien, or a deferred loan. Always read repayment and lien conditions before you sign.
- City of Las Vegas: The city’s Housing Rehabilitation program provides critical repairs for low/mod‑income owner‑occupants within city limits (apply in the Neighborly portal).
- City of Reno (Older Adults): The city and RTNNV run the Older Adults Home Modification Program for residents 62+ at ≤ 80% AMI.
- City of Henderson: Henderson refers residents to Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada for critical home repair; see the city’s resources for residents.
- Rural counties (RNDC): RNDC offers a homeowner rehabilitation program with a typical 3‑year forgivable lien when funded (e.g., under HMNI). See RNDC Homeowner Rehabilitation for eligible counties and waitlist details.
- State CDBG (non‑entitlement cities/counties): Nevada’s statewide CDBG is administered by GOED; local governments may fund rehabilitation in small communities. See GOED’s CDBG program page and ask your city/county Community Development office.
Money facts: City/county programs often record a lien (forgivable over 3–10 years). If you sell, transfer, or move early, some or all funds may be due back. Always ask the staff to explain the lien and “recapture” rules in plain language.
5) Nonprofit Repair Help
- Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada (Clark/Nye). Zero‑cost critical repairs focused on seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners. Read the program list on RTSNV’s site and apply or call 702‑259‑4900.
- Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada (Washoe and nearby). Safety modifications and critical repairs at no cost; see RTNNV’s website or the City of Reno’s homeowner resources.
- Seniors (minor fixes): Some nonprofits offer small repairs (e.g., HELP of Southern Nevada for weatherization at HELP’s weatherization page and senior services like Helping Hands of Vegas Valley’s minor repair program).
6) Disaster Repairs (FEMA/SBA) for Fires, Flooding, and Storms
If your county is included in a federal disaster declaration, you can apply for FEMA grants for essential home repairs and temporary housing. FEMA cannot pay for anything insurance already covered (duplication of benefits is not allowed). For deeper rebuilding needs, SBA may offer low‑interest disaster loans.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov (see FEMA’s apply FAQ). Watch Nevada’s FEMA Nevada page for declarations and centers.
- Track preparedness and state updates on the Nevada OEM’s Plan Ahead page.
Money facts: FEMA assistance is a grant for basic repairs to make your home safe, sanitary, and functional—not full restoration. SBA loans are debt with interest; borrow only what you can safely repay.
7) Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) – mortgage, taxes, and insurance
For mortgage and housing‑related arrears (like property taxes or insurance), Nevada’s HAF program recently closed to new applications on November 30, 2025. Check the Nevada HAF page for any status changes or successor resources. If you’re behind on mortgage or taxes, call early—programs change quickly.
8) Utility & Rebate Programs to Stretch Repair Dollars
- Nevada IRA Rebates (2025 launch window). The Governor’s Office of Energy is building statewide Home Energy Rebates (HOMES/HEEHR). For timelines and sign‑ups, see GOE’s Home Energy Rebates page.
- Southwest Gas rebates/assistance. Explore bill help and appliance rebates via Southwest Gas programs and the charitable Energy Share.
- Tax credits. See the Nevada Clean Energy Fund’s summary of federal credits and dollar caps on the fund’s federal incentives page, and confirm details on ENERGY STAR’s federal tax credits.
City & County Programs (Where to Start)
Use this table for Nevada’s largest metros and common rural options. If your town is not listed, call City Hall or the county Community Development office and ask about “owner‑occupied housing rehabilitation” funded by CDBG/HOME.
| City/County | Program | Example help | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas (City) | Housing Rehabilitation | Critical health/safety repairs; seniors aging‑in‑place | Low/mod‑income owner‑occupants within city limits | City’s Housing Services page (Neighborly portal) |
| Reno (City) | Older Adults Home Modification | Grab bars, ramps, fall‑prevention upgrades | 62+ at ≤ 80% AMI, in Reno city limits | Reno’s program announcement (managed by RTNNV) |
| Henderson (City) | Critical repairs via RTSNV | HVAC, roof, plumbing, a11y modifications | Income‑eligible owner‑occupants in Henderson | City’s resident housing resources (call RTSNV) |
| Washoe County/Reno‑Sparks | WAP + nonprofit repairs | Weatherization + critical repairs via RTNNV | Low‑income owners (WAP); 62+ for modifications | CSA Weatherization and RTNNV apply |
| Clark County (unincorporated) | Nonprofit repair partners | Critical system repairs; safety work | Low‑income seniors, veterans, disabled owners | Contact RTSNV for service areas and intake |
| Rural counties (e.g., Nye, White Pine, Humboldt) | RNDC Rehab + WAP | Forgivable rehab (if funded) + free weatherization | Low‑income rural owner‑occupants | RNDC’s homeowner rehab page and weatherization |
| Carson City (Entitlement) | CDBG allocations (varied) | Housing/community repairs vary by year | Low/mod‑income residents per CDBG use | City’s CDBG page for cycles and contacts |
Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies
Most programs set income cutoffs using HUD’s “Area Median Income” (AMI) by household size and location. Some use 80% of AMI (low income), others 50% (very low), and some follow poverty guidelines or state rules.
- Use HUD’s Income Limits tool to pull the exact limit for your county/metro and family size.
- As a statewide example from HUD (not metro‑specific), the FY2025 “low‑income” (80% of median) statewide figure for a 4‑person household is $78,000 (see HUD’s state limits PDF).
- Local metro limits are different. Typical examples: in the Las Vegas area a 4‑person “80% AMI” is around $81,600; in the Reno area it’s around $88,400. Always confirm your current value with HUD’s Income Limits tool.
Programs can open/close and incomes adjust each June (HUD). If you’re near the cutoff, apply anyway and ask the staff whether deductions or special priorities (elderly/disabled households, high energy burden) might help.
Special Groups & Short Examples
Seniors (60+)
Start with HEROS for free energy upgrades and safety checks; see GOE’s HEROS program. Add Weatherization via HELP (South), CSA (North), or RNDC (rural). For small fixes in Southern Nevada, check Helping Hands of Vegas Valley’s minor repair program. For a big‑picture overview, this seniors repair guide explains common options.
Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Henderson with a fixed income gets HEROS weatherization and an RTSNV‑installed grab bar and ramp. No repayment; documented through final inspection.
Veterans
For service‑connected disabilities, the VA offers accessibility grants: Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Home Adaptation (SHA). See VA’s official disability housing grants page and how to file VA Form 26‑4555 on how to apply. In FY2026, VA lists a max SAH of $126,526 and SHA of $25,350 (total lifetime caps), per VA’s current amounts and Federal Register notice.
For general repairs (Clark/Nye), contact Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada or see the Nevada Department of Veterans Services’ Veterans at Home program.
Example: A veteran in North Las Vegas with limited mobility uses a VA SAH grant to widen doorways while RTSNV replaces a failing HVAC. VA funds cover accessibility; nonprofit covers critical system repair.
Disabled Homeowners (non‑veteran)
Try WAP for energy/safety fixes and your city/county rehab program for accessibility modifications. Reno’s 62+ modification program is run with RTNNV (see program details). In Southern Nevada, ask RTSNV about fall‑prevention upgrades on programs & services.
Rural Homeowners
Combine USDA Section 504 and WAP. Apply on USDA’s Nevada 504 page and call RNDC for rural rehab and weatherization.
Example: A homeowner in White Pine County gets a $12,000 USDA 504 loan (1%, 20 years) to replace dangerous wiring and uses WAP for insulation and duct sealing. Monthly P&I on a $12,000 loan at ~1% over 20 years is roughly $55–$60.
Families with Children / Single Parents
For urgent utility costs, apply to DWSS’s Energy Assistance Program. Pair with WAP and your city’s rehab program (e.g., Las Vegas Housing Rehabilitation). If a roof is the main issue, review this roof repair guide and ask the program specifically if roof work is covered this cycle.
Step‑by‑Step Action Plan
Today (or as soon as you can)
- Write a one‑page list of hazards (roof leak, unsafe wiring, no heat, soft flooring). Photos help.
- Check income eligibility on HUD’s Income Limits tool.
- Call 211 (or visit Nevada 211) and ask for help with “owner‑occupied home repair programs” and weatherization providers.
This week
- If you are rural and very low income, start USDA 504 on the Nevada 504 page. Ask USDA which documents to submit first.
- If you live in Las Vegas or Reno, submit to your city rehab program (Las Vegas Housing Rehabilitation; Reno Older Adults program if 62+).
- Apply for WAP through your local provider (HELP / CSA / RNDC) and file for EAP at DWSS Energy Assistance.
This month
- If you had disaster damage, apply at DisasterAssistance.gov. Do not duplicate costs paid by insurance or other programs.
- Seniors: Contact HEROS via GOE’s program page.
- If you need accessibility modifications and are a veteran, review VA’s SAH/SHA grants.
- Collect bids only when a program tells you to. Starting work early can make you ineligible.
Expectations: Weatherization and city rehab waitlists can run months. Keep copies of all forms, and call every 30–45 days to confirm you’re still on the list.
Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes
- If denied: Ask for the denial reason in writing. Ask whether there’s an appeal or “informal review.” Ask when to reapply.
- If funds are exhausted: Ask about the next opening date or waitlist policy; check Nevada 211 for additional nonprofits.
- Consider safe financing: For rural owners, USDA 504 loans are 1% (20 years). For example, a $20,000 loan at ~1% over 20 years is about $92/month for principal and interest. Loans are debt—make sure your income can support payments.
- Heirs’ property/title: Programs need proof you own/occupy the home. If the deed is unclear, contact the State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service or the courts’ Self‑Help Center.
Common mistakes (and quick fixes):
- Starting work before approval → Don’t. Wait for a written award/authorization.
- Missing documents → Use a simple folder: ID, proof of income, deed, tax bill, utility bill, insurance, repair photos.
- Not answering calls → Add agency numbers to your phone; check voicemail daily.
- Unlicensed contractors → Ask the program how contractors are selected; most programs hire directly or require licensing.
- Applying to the wrong jurisdiction → Verify you live within city limits (Las Vegas vs. unincorporated Clark, etc.). Call your city’s housing office if unsure.
Phone Scripts
Calling WAP/Weatherization provider
“Hello, I’m a homeowner in [city/county]. I have high bills and safety issues with my [heater/insulation/ducts]. Can I apply for Weatherization? My household size is [X] and income is about [Y]. What documents do you need from me first?”
Calling a city/county rehab program
“Hi, I own and live in a home in [city/county]. I need help with [roof/HVAC/plumbing/electrical]. Do you have an owner‑occupied rehab or emergency repair program? How is the assistance structured (grant vs. forgivable lien)? When can I apply?”
Calling USDA Rural Development about 504
“Hello, I’m in [rural county]. I need health/safety repairs. I’d like to apply for the Section 504 Home Repair program. Can you confirm current income limits, what to submit first, and whether I might qualify for a grant (I’m [age 62+ / under 62])?”
Calling a nonprofit (Rebuilding Together)
“Hi, I’m a low‑income homeowner in [Las Vegas/North Las Vegas/Henderson/Reno/rural area]. I need help with [HVAC/roof/accessibility]. How do I get on your repair list, and what documents should I prepare now?”
FAQs (Nevada‑Specific)
Q1. Do Nevada programs help with mobile/manufactured homes?
Many do—especially Weatherization and nonprofit programs—but there can be restrictions (e.g., must be owner‑occupied, titled properly, installed to code). Ask HELP/CSA/RNDC via the WAP pages (HELP, CSA, RNDC).
Q2. Are there grants for roof replacement in Nevada?
Some city rehab programs and nonprofits fund roof repairs, but availability changes. Start with Las Vegas’s Housing Rehabilitation and RTSNV’s critical repair program. Also explore WAP if the roof issue relates to efficiency or safety.
Q3. I’m slightly over the income limit. What now?
Check if another program uses a different cutoff (e.g., HEROS uses 200% of poverty—see GOE’s HEROS page). Also try EAP at DWSS Energy Assistance and nonprofit repairs (RTSNV/RTNNV).
Q4. How long are waitlists?
WAP and city rehab programs often take months due to funding cycles and contractor scheduling. Submit a complete application, keep your phone on, and follow up monthly with your case worker.
Q5. Will I owe taxes on grant money?
Ask the agency and your tax preparer. Many repair grants aren’t taxable, but rules can vary. If you receive a 1099 or other tax form, consult a professional. You can also ask Nevada 211 (Nevada 211) for free tax clinic referrals.
Q6. What if I have mortgage or property tax arrears?
Nevada’s HAF program closed to new applications on Nov. 30, 2025. Check the NAHAC page for updates. For foreclosure mediation/referrals, the State’s homeowner resources are listed on the Homeowner Assistance Programs page.
Q7. Do funds create a lien on my home?
Sometimes. City/county rehab aid is frequently a forgivable lien (3–10 years). RNDC rehab commonly uses a 3‑year forgivable lien (see RNDC rehab). Ask your program staff for the lien term and what happens if you sell or move.
Q8. How do disaster grants and insurance interact?
You cannot be paid twice for the same damage. File insurance first, then apply to FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov. FEMA may cover essential items your insurance didn’t.
One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary
Quick Checklist
- List urgent hazards (health/safety/utility issues); take photos.
- Check eligibility on HUD’s income limits tool.
- Gather: ID, proof of income (30–60 days), deed/title, property tax bill, insurance, current utility bill, disability/veteran documents (if applicable).
- Apply to: WAP provider + EAP; city rehab (if applicable); USDA 504 (rural); HEROS (seniors); nonprofits (RTSNV/RTNNV).
- Track: dates, case numbers, staff names, and requested documents. Follow up every 2–4 weeks.
Key Contacts (save these)
| Agency/Program | Focus | Website |
|---|---|---|
| DWSS Energy Assistance (EAP) | Utility bill help | Energy Assistance Program |
| Weatherization (providers) | Free energy/safety measures | DOE WAP steps | HELP | CSA | RNDC |
| USDA Rural Development (504) | Rural repair loans/grants | USDA Nevada 504 |
| City of Las Vegas | Owner rehab grants | Housing Rehabilitation |
| City of Reno | Seniors modifications | Older Adults program |
| Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada | Critical home repairs | RTSNV programs |
| Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada | Home repairs/a11y mods | RTNNV |
| HEROS (GOE) | Seniors energy retrofits | HEROS page |
| FEMA Disaster Assistance | Post‑disaster repair grants | DisasterAssistance.gov | FEMA Nevada |
| Nevada 211 | Find programs, get referrals | Nevada 211 (dial 211) |
| Lawyer Referral (State Bar) | Title/heirs/property issues | Lawyer Referral Service |
Resumen en español (corto)
Este recurso es para dueños de casa de bajos ingresos en Nevada que necesitan reparaciones urgentes (techo, calefacción/AC, plomería, electricidad, accesibilidad o eficiencia de energía). Empiece por los programas básicos:
- Clima/Energía: Solicite la Asistencia de Climatización (Weatherization) con su agencia local: HELP (Sur de Nevada), CSA (Reno) o RNDC (condados rurales). También pida ayuda de energía en DWSS: Programa de Asistencia de Energía.
- Personas mayores (60+): Pida mejoras de eficiencia y seguridad gratis por HEROS en la página del Gobernador (GOE).
- Reparaciones en ciudades: En Las Vegas, vea Rehabilitación de Viviendas. En Reno (62+), aplique al Programa de Modificaciones para Adultos Mayores. En Henderson y áreas del condado Clark, llame a Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada.
- Áreas rurales: Pida el programa USDA 504 en la página de USDA Nevada (préstamos al 1% y becas para 62+), y WAP con RNDC.
- Desastres: Si hubo una declaración federal, solicite ayuda de FEMA en DisasterAssistance.gov.
Si necesita intérprete o más opciones, marque 211 o visite Nevada 211. Prepare: identificación, comprobantes de ingresos, escritura, impuesto de propiedad, factura de servicios, seguro y fotos del daño.
Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information
- Check current income limits in HUD’s Income Limits tool (choose your county/metro and household size).
- Verify USDA 504 loan/grant details on USDA’s Nevada 504 program page.
- Confirm Weatherization providers using DOE’s WAP how‑to‑apply page and the Nevada agency sites.
- For disasters, use FEMA’s Disaster Assistance portal and Nevada OEM’s Plan Ahead page.
- For statewide referrals, call or search Nevada 211.
Rules, amounts, and income limits can change. Confirm details with the agency or a trusted housing counselor. This is not legal, tax, or financial advice.
