Home Repair Grants in South Carolina

This plain‑language guide is for South Carolina homeowners who need help fixing unsafe or failing parts of their homes. It highlights trusted state, local, and federal programs, who qualifies, and the exact 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

• Seniors, disabled homeowners, single parents, and working families with low incomes.
• Rural homeowners needing critical repairs (roof, heat, electrical, plumbing, accessibility).
• Homeowners in disaster‑impacted counties who need safe, sanitary, livable conditions.

Quick check:

• You own and live in the home (name on deed or verified heirs’ interest) in South Carolina.
• The repair is about health, safety, or energy (not cosmetic).
• Your income is within the program’s limits (see the HUD income limits tool and examples below).
• You can provide basic documents (ID, proof of ownership, income, utility bill).

Top Programs in South Carolina (Quick Table)

Short Federal Snapshot (with SC links)

• USDA Section 504 in SC gives very‑low‑income rural homeowners 1% loans (20 years) and limited grants for seniors 62+. Start on USDA’s South Carolina 504 page and call your local office. For a plain‑English overview, see this short Section 504 guide.
• Weatherization (WAP) in SC is run by the Office of Economic Opportunity and local agencies; you get efficiency repairs after a home energy audit. Learn more on the state’s WAP page and find your county provider through the SC OEO website.
• FEMA Disaster Help opens only after a presidential declaration. Apply at FEMA’s SC updates or through the state’s SCEMD help for individuals. You cannot be paid twice for the same damage (duplication of benefits).

South Carolina Programs (Core Details)

SC Housing Trust Fund (Home Repair & Critical Home Repair)

SC Housing’s Trust Fund backs local “sponsors” (cities, counties, and nonprofits) to fix serious hazards—roofs, HVAC, wiring, plumbing, ramps, and lead/asbestos/mold when needed. Under 15,000 is typically a grant; above that is recorded as a forgivable loan with occupancy requirements. Read the program rules on SC Housing’s Housing Trust Fund page and then contact a sponsor from the “Approved Sponsors by County” list linked there.

Money basics: Critical Home Repair covers up to 30,000; the larger Home Repair track can reach 75,000. Most awards are lower and based on inspection, scope, and annual funding. Expect a lien period if the award is over 15,000. Selling, moving, or transferring the home early can trigger repayment.

Weatherization & Energy Crisis Help (WAP/LIHEAP)

For high utility bills or unsafe heating/cooling, start with the state’s LIHEAP page (bill assistance and energy crises) and the WAP program description. Local community action agencies (like Waccamaw EOC in Horry/Georgetown/Williamsburg or Palmetto Community Action Partnership) can take applications, verify income, and schedule audits.

WAP is a service, not cash. Crews seal air leaks, add insulation, repair ducts, and replace unsafe systems when cost‑effective. LIHEAP may pay a past‑due bill or fix a no‑heat emergency depending on funds and household eligibility.

SC Safe Home (Hurricane/Wind Mitigation)

Home hardening can reduce storm damage and insurance claims. The Department of Insurance’s SC Safe Home offers grants to coastal owner‑occupants for retrofits like roof‑to‑wall connections or opening protection. Caps are currently up to 7,500 (non‑matching) or 6,000 (matching) for resilient measures, and other caps for shutters. The application portal opens in rounds, and funds go quickly—join the email list on the program page.

These funds are for mitigation, not general remodeling. You’ll use approved contractors and follow the program’s scope and documentation rules.

City/County Rehab & Emergency Repairs

Many counties and cities use HUD’s CDBG/HOME to fix owner‑occupied homes. Examples include Richland’s Operation One Touch (forgivable assistance up to 23,000) and Charleston’s Homeowner Rehabilitation loans (up to 80,000; 20–30 years). If your city isn’t listed here, call City Hall and ask for Community Development or Housing; statewide CDBG rules are posted on the SC CDBG program site.

Nonprofits that repair homes

Nonprofits help fill gaps. In the Upstate, Rebuild Upstate repairs critical hazards for eligible homeowners in Anderson, Greenville, Oconee, and Pickens. Spartanburg residents can look to Rebuilding Together Spartanburg or Habitat Spartanburg’s critical repair. Statewide, some affiliates listed at Habitat for Humanity South Carolina offer repair programs; check the site for your local affiliate.

Utility rebates (pair with repairs)

While not “grants,” rebates can reduce costs for HVAC, insulation, and water heaters. Dominion Energy SC posts current residential offers on its heating & cooling rebates page and lists gas water heater rebates. Duke Energy’s Smart $aver home rebates and free Home Energy House Call can stack with repairs. Santee Cooper offers residential incentives like smart thermostat rebates.

City & County Programs (Where to Ask)

Many smaller towns run “owner‑occupied rehab” with HUD funds. If you don’t see yours, call City Hall and ask for Community Development or check the state’s CDBG eligibility page to see how SC funds flow.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs set income cutoffs using Area Median Income (AMI)Income Limits tool.

• Columbia (Richland County) example: Richland lists 2025 “HUD Income Limits for Columbia SC Metro.” A 4‑person 80% AMI is $74,150 (examples for other household sizes are posted on the County’s Minor Home Repairs page).
• Horry County example: 2025 CDBG limits show a 4‑person low/mod (80%) at $69,450 and a 1‑person at $48,650, per the County’s CDBG page (see “2025 CDBG Income Limits”).
• Greenville County example: GCRA lists 2025 income thresholds (e.g., 1‑person $54,150; 4‑person $77,350) on its Home Repair page.

These are examples only. Limits change each year and differ by county/metro. Always verify on the agency’s page or HUD’s tool before applying.

Special Groups & Quick Examples

Seniors (62+)

• Try WAP via the state’s Weatherization page (seniors get priority) and the Trust Fund’s Home Repair programs through a local sponsor.
• If rural and very low income, add USDA’s Section 504 (grants for 62+ remove hazards).
• Background tips are summarized in this senior repair guide (plain‑English overview).

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Sumter with a leaking roof and fixed income could apply through a Trust Fund sponsor for roof work and also enroll for Weatherization. Actual amounts depend on inspection and available funds.

Veterans

• For service‑connected disabilities, the VA’s SAH/SHA grants can fund accessibility modifications (FY26 caps: SAH up to $126,526; SHA up to $25,350). The SC Department of Veterans’ Affairs explains HISA steps on its HISA information page.
• Pair these with local rehab (e.g., City of Charleston loans or GCRA repairs) when accessible remodeling overlaps with critical health/safety repairs.

Example: A disabled veteran in North Charleston may use VA Form 26‑4555 for a bathroom conversion and apply to the County’s DAP after storm damage—being careful not to claim duplicate benefits for the same item.

Disabled homeowners

• Start with WAP (priority households) through the state Weatherization portal and ask your city/county rehab program about ramps, grab bars, and safe egress.
• Nonprofits like Rebuild Upstate or your local Habitat affiliate may do critical accessibility work when funds allow.

Rural residents

• Check property eligibility on USDA’s map and call your county office from the SC 504 page. USDA’s 1% loans are low payment (a 20,000 loan ≈ $92/month principal & interest over 20 years).
• Layer in WAP via the state’s WAP page for energy and safety measures.

Families with children

• Households with kids are prioritized by WAP (see the eligibility list). Ask your city/county rehab if lead, mold, or unsafe wiring can be addressed through Trust Fund‑backed sponsors.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Write a short “need list” (leaking roof, no heat, unsafe wiring, soft floors, no hot water).
2. Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for home‑repair referrals in your county via SC 211. Ask for help with forms if you need it.
3. Gather documents: ID, deed/tax bill, recent income proof, utility bill, photos of damage.

This week

1. Apply to your local rehab program (city/county). Examples above link directly to each office (e.g., GCRA, Richland, Charleston).
2. Start WAP and, if needed, LIHEAP energy crisis through the state’s Weatherization page and LIHEAP information.
3. If rural and very low income (especially seniors 62+), contact USDA from the SC 504 page.

This month

1. If you live on the coast, review SC Safe Home and get your paperwork ready before the next application window.
2. Check utility rebates that match your needed repair (e.g., Dominion HVAC rebates or Duke Smart $aver) and ask your contractor to apply them.
3. Keep a file with case numbers, dates, and contact names. Wait‑lists are common; WAP can take months. Stay polite and persistent.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied or funds are gone: Ask for the reason in writing. Ask if your case can be wait‑listed and when to reapply. For LIHEAP or WAP decisions, follow the appeal instructions on the state WAP page or LIHEAP page.
• Legal/title issues: Many SC homes are “heirs’ property.” Programs often require clear ownership. For help, contact the Center for Heirs’ Property or South Carolina Legal Services.
• Common mistakes (and quick fixes):
  • Starting work before approval → Wait for the written award/contract.
  • Missing documents → Use the agency’s checklist; ask 2‑1‑1 for help assembling paperwork.
  • Unlicensed contractor → Programs usually require licensed/approved installers (especially SC Safe Home, utility rebates, WAP).
  • “Grant” liens → Many “grants” are forgivable liens for 5–10 years. Ask for the lien term and any payback triggers in writing.
  • Duplication of benefits (disasters) → If FEMA or SBA already paid for your roof, another program can usually only fund the unmet need, not the same work twice.

Phone Scripts (short and simple)

• Calling WAP/LIHEAP (your local agency):
  “Hello, I live in [County]. I’m calling about Weatherization or LIHEAP. I have [no heat/leaking air/unsafe wiring/high bills]. My household is [number] people, and our monthly income is about [$amount]. Could you tell me what I need to apply and where to submit my documents?”
• Calling a city/county rehab office:
  “Hi, I’m a homeowner in [City/County]. I need help with [roof/HVAC/electrical]. Do you have an owner‑occupied rehab or emergency repair program? What are the income limits and when is the next application window?”
• Calling USDA Rural Development about 504:
  “Hello, I own my home in [Town, County], and I’m interested in Section 504 repair assistance. My income is about [$], and I’m [62+/under 62]. Could you please confirm if my address is rural‑eligible and what documents I need to start the 504 application?”
• Calling a nonprofit (Habitat/Rebuild Upstate/Rebuilding Together):
  “Hi, I’m looking for home‑repair help for health and safety items. I’m [age/disability if relevant], and my income is [$] per month. Do you serve my neighborhood, and can you send me your application checklist?”

FAQs (South Carolina‑Specific)

Q1: Do SC programs help with mobile/manufactured homes?
A: Sometimes. For example, Lexington County’s rehab notes manufactured homes may qualify under its Minor Home Repair track with conditions (age/foundation), per the County’s program page. Ask your local office about your unit’s age, tie‑downs, and title.

Q2: What if my income is a little over the limit?
A: Some programs use 50% AMI, others 80% AMI, and some use different cutoffs. Check the HUD income limits tool. If you’re over for rehab, ask about utility rebates (e.g., Dominion HVAC or Duke Smart $aver) or discuss a 1% USDA loan on the SC 504 page.

Q3: How long do these repairs take?
A: Timelines vary. Weatherization can take several months due to audits and wait‑lists (see the state’s WAP info). City/county rehab opens in yearly or periodic rounds (watch your local program page). SC Safe Home grants open by portal and close when funds are claimed on the program page.

Q4: Will a “grant” put a lien on my house?
A: Often yes for larger amounts. Richland’s repairs, for instance, are a forgivable loan with a 5‑year occupancy requirement (see the County’s program page). Always ask whether assistance is a grant, forgivable loan, or loan—and the exact lien term.

Q5: We have heirs’ property. Can we apply?
A: Programs usually require proof of ownership. Before applying, talk with the Center for Heirs’ Property or South Carolina Legal Services about clearing title or establishing your legal interest.

Q6: What about disasters like hurricanes?
A: Apply to FEMA first when a declaration is active (see FEMA SC updates), and check the state SCEMD help page. After FEMA/SBA, ask your county about any local disaster repair funds (e.g., Charleston County’s DAP). You can’t be paid twice for the same item.

Q7: Can teachers, seniors, or veterans get special help?
A: Yes, but most programs are income‑based. Seniors get priority in WAP (see the state WAP page). Veterans with disabilities should review VA’s SAH/SHA grants. Teachers may find help with down‑payment programs via SC Housing, but repairs still flow through local rehab, WAP, or the Trust Fund sponsors.

Q8: I’m behind on my mortgage or taxes—does that affect repair help?
A: Some programs require you to be current on taxes and insurance. If you need legal guidance, the SC Bar’s Get Legal Help page can route you to legal aid or a referral. You can also call 2‑1‑1 for housing counseling resources.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Resumen en español (breve)

Esta guía es para dueños de casa en Carolina del Sur con ingresos bajos que necesitan reparar problemas de seguridad (techo con goteras, calefacción/aire, electricidad, plomería, accesibilidad). Empiece con dos pasos: llame al 2‑1‑1 para referencias locales (SC 211) y contacte al programa de Climatización del estado (Weatherization) para mejoras de energía y seguridad. Si vive en zona rural y tiene ingresos muy bajos, vea el programa USDA Sección 504 para préstamos al 1% y, si tiene 62+ años, ayudas en efectivo (visite la página de USDA en Carolina del Sur). Para daños por huracán o tormenta, solicite primero a FEMA/SCEMD; no se puede recibir doble pago por el mismo daño.

En ciudades y condados hay programas para reparar casas ocupadas por sus dueños: por ejemplo, Richland (ayuda perdonable), Greenville (GCRA), Ciudad de Charleston y Condado de Spartanburg. En la costa, revise SC Safe Home para reforzar su casa contra el viento. Pida intérprete si lo necesita. Tenga lista su identificación, prueba de propiedad, ingresos y fotos del daño.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Check the latest limits and rules on HUD’s Income Limits tool.
• Confirm USDA 504 eligibility and forms on the USDA South Carolina 504 page.
• For Weatherization/LIHEAP, use the state OEO’s WAP and LIHEAP pages.
• For disasters, start at SCEMD’s help for individuals page and current FEMA info for SC.
• For statewide referrals anytime, call SC 211.

Program rules, amounts, and income limits can change during the year. Always confirm with the agency or a trusted housing counselor. Ask whether funds are a grant, forgivable loan (lien), or loan, and how they could affect your taxes or benefits. If in doubt, consult a qualified advisor.