Home Repair Grants in Virginia

Who This Is For & Quick Eligibility Check

• Homeowners who live in Virginia and live in the home that needs work.
• People with low or fixed income (SSI/SSDI, Social Security, VA benefits, hourly wages).
• Homes needing basic safety repairs (roof leaks, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, ramps).
• Rural homeowners (small towns and counties) and city homeowners alike.

Quick check: You likely qualify if you (1) own and occupy the home; (2) meet program income rules (many use HUD “Area Median Income”); and (3) need health/safety repairs. Use HUD’s income limits tool to see the limits for your county or metro. For rural programs, verify your address in USDA’s eligibility tool (look for “Check Eligibility”).

Top Programs in Virginia (Quick Table)

Amounts are examples only. Always check the official page for current rules, funding, and status.

Short Federal Snapshot (Virginia specifics)

USDA Section 504 in Virginia

For rural homeowners, USDA’s repair program offers a 1% loan up to 20 years and a small grant for age 62+. Start on USDA’s 504 page, then contact the USDA Virginia office for your local specialist. For a plain‑language overview, see this independent USDA 504 guide.

Weatherization in Virginia

Virginia’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) manages WAP through local nonprofits. Apply via DHCD’s WAP page and choose “Find your local provider.” In many regions, Community Housing Partners handles intake and work; see CHP’s Weatherization page.

Disasters and FEMA

After federally declared disasters, apply through FEMA’s Individual Assistance and check the Virginia Emergency Management VDEM page for state updates. If FEMA pays for part of a repair, other programs can only cover what’s still unmet (no “double‑paying” for the same damage).

Virginia Programs (Core Details)

Essential Home & Accessibility Repair (EHARP)

EHARP removes urgent health and safety hazards and adds accessibility (ramps, grab bars, small electrical/plumbing, roof patches). It is a grant with a typical maximum of $4,000. Households must be ≤80% of Area Median Income and work is delivered by local administrators. See DHCD’s EHARP page for current providers and rules.

Note: EHARP isn’t available in certain “entitlement” cities/counties (e.g., Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Fairfax, Henrico). If you live in one of those, contact your city/county housing/community development office about its CDBG/HOME repair program (see city table below).

Indoor Plumbing Rehabilitation – IPR Flex

IPR Flex focuses on homes with no indoor plumbing or a failing major system (roofing, HVAC, electrical). It uses a forgivable loan recorded as a lien and forgiven monthly over up to 180 months. See DHCD’s IPR Flex page for eligibility and contacts.

Money type: forgivable loan (lien). If you sell or move before it’s fully forgiven, some amount may have to be repaid. Ask the local provider to explain the forgiveness schedule in writing.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP delivers free energy and safety upgrades like air sealing, insulation, carbon‑monoxide/smoke alarms, and HVAC repairs. This is not a bill‑pay program. Apply through DHCD’s WAP page; in many areas you’ll work with CHP’s Energy Solutions team (service offices listed by region). Expect an energy audit first and then work by priority measures.

Energy Assistance Program (Crisis Repairs)

Through the winter “Crisis” component, Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program can repair or replace unsafe heating equipment during emergencies. See the Virginia Department of Social Services Energy Assistance page for dates, what’s covered, and how to apply.

Septic/Well Repairs (VDH SWAP + SERCAP)

For failing septic or unsafe wells, the Virginia Department of Health’s SWAP program can help qualifying low‑income homeowners with reimbursement‑based grants. In rural areas, SERCAP provides small grants and loans for urgent water/wastewater needs; see SERCAP’s E&CN grants and SWAP partner page.

Veterans’ Home Modifications

For service‑connected disabilities, the VA’s SAH/SHA grants help buy, build, or modify a home. For FY 2026 (starts Oct. 1, 2025), the SAH cap is $126,526 and the SHA cap is $25,350; see VA’s disability housing grants. Virginia Housing also runs Granting Freedom for accessibility modifications; start at Virginia Housing’s military programs. For a plain‑language overview of national options, see this short veterans repair guide.

Utility & Energy Programs

Some utilities provide rebates or weatherization. For example, Dominion’s EnergyShare offers seasonal bill assistance and free energy upgrades for eligible customers. Natural‑gas customers can review Columbia Gas’s WarmWise rebates for equipment like furnaces and water heaters (rebates are after you pay the contractor; keep all receipts).

City & County Programs

These local programs are good first stops if your city/county is on the list. If you don’t see your locality, call your City Hall or County Community Development office and ask about “owner‑occupied rehab” funded by CDBG/HOME.

Smaller towns often use CDBG/HOME for owner‑occupied rehab. Call your city/county “Housing & Community Development” office and ask, “Do you have a homeowner rehab program for safety/code repairs?”

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use different income cutoffs (some ≤80% of Area Median Income (AMI), some ≤50%, some use other limits). Always confirm on the program page. You can look up your area in HUD’s income limits tool.

• Northern Virginia example (Washington–Arlington–Alexandria): Fairfax County’s 2025 chart lists a 4‑person household at 80% AMI = $106,800. See the county’s income guidelines.
• Richmond metro example: The City’s Healthy Homes page shows a 4‑person household at 80% AMI = $90,800. See Richmond’s eligibility table.

These are examples only. Your limit depends on your county/metro and household size. Always double‑check in HUD’s income limits tool.

Special Groups & Quick Examples

Seniors

Start with EHARP for urgent hazards (state page) and WAP for energy/safety (apply via provider). In Fairfax, the county can send a crew and up to $1,000 in materials; see Fairfax’s HREP. In Henrico, emergency repairs can go up to $10,000; see the county’s repair page.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner in Richmond with a broken furnace may qualify for WAP or VDSS Crisis repair via the Energy Assistance program, and then Healthy Homes for roof or plumbing repairs.

Veterans

Check VA’s SAH/SHA grants for accessible bathrooms, ramps, or major changes (see the VA housing grant page). For smaller accessibility needs, Virginia Housing’s Granting Freedom can help with modifications. For context on veteran‑focused programs, see this veterans programs guide.

Example: A veteran in Virginia Beach who needs a roll‑in shower could seek VA SHA, apply for Granting Freedom, and also ask the city’s rehab program about accessibility funds.

Disabled Homeowners

EHARP funds small accessibility work (ramps/grab bars), while WAP can address safety hazards alongside energy fixes (WAP page). In Northern Virginia, see Alexandria’s HRLP for 0% deferred loans tailored to accessibility and code issues.

Rural Residents

For rural addresses, USDA Section 504 is often the quickest path for roofs, wiring, and basic systems (start at USDA’s Virginia office). For septic or well issues, use VDH’s SWAP and SERCAP’s small grants.

Families with Children / Single Parents

WAP gives priority to households with children (state WAP page). Local CDBG/HOME repair programs (Richmond, Norfolk, Virginia Beach) also serve low‑income families—see the city table.

Have a Roof Leak?

For leaks causing damage or mold, start with your city/county rehab program (many can fund roofs), or USDA 504 if you’re rural (USDA 504 page). For background on how roof aid works and what to expect, see this short roof repair guide. If damage was caused by a declared disaster, apply to FEMA first (FEMA IA page), then bring the FEMA decision letter to any local program. Remember: no program can pay twice for the same damage.

Money Clarity: Grants vs. Loans vs. Rebates

• Grant: You don’t repay, but some grants are recorded as a lien for a period. If you sell or move before the term ends, you may owe some or all back. Example: many city rehab programs record a deferred/forgivable lien.
• Forgivable or deferred loan: No monthly payment now; the lien is forgiven over time or due when you sell. Example: IPR Flex is forgiven monthly over up to 180 months (program page).
• Regular loan: USDA 504 loans are 1% for up to 20 years. Example monthly payment: $20,000 at 1% ≈ $92/month for principal and interest (taxes/insurance not included). See USDA 504.
• Reimbursement: You pay first; the program refunds part after you submit proof. Example: some VDH SWAP projects reimburse after inspection.
• Rebate: You buy an approved product, then submit for cash back. Example: Columbia Gas WarmWise rebates.

Duplication of benefits: If FEMA or insurance already paid for the same work, other programs can only fund the remaining unmet need. Keep all estimates and award letters.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Write a short list of safety issues (leaks, no heat, unsafe wiring, soft floors). Take a few phone photos.
2. Check your likely eligibility in HUD’s income limits tool.
3. If rural, bookmark USDA’s Virginia office page. If in a big city, find your program in the city table.
4. If it’s an emergency heat issue, apply to VDSS’s Energy Assistance (Crisis).

This week

1. Apply to WAP through DHCD’s weatherization page (energy work is free).
2. If rural and very‑low income, call USDA 504 (loan/grant) via the Virginia USDA office.
3. If you live in Richmond, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach, submit your city rehab application (links in the table).
4. If you need help finding programs or an interpreter, dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 211 Virginia.

This month

1. Gather documents many programs request: photo ID, deed or tax bill, income proof (award letters, paystubs), utility bill, contractor estimates if you have them.
2. Follow up weekly by phone or email. Keep a simple log with dates, names, and case numbers.
3. If flooding or storm damage was involved, file with FEMA (apply page) and watch VDEM’s updates.

Expect wait‑lists. Weatherization can take months. Apply early and to more than one program.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

If you’re denied or funds are out

• Ask for the denial reason in writing.
• Ask about appeal, wait‑list, or reopening dates.
• Apply to a second program (city rehab, WAP, USDA 504, SERCAP, or utility rebates).
• For disasters, check VDEM and the DHCD Disaster Assistance Fund updates during active events.

Common mistakes (easy fixes)

• Starting work before approval — wait until you have a written grant/loan agreement.
• Missing calls or emails — add program numbers to your phone and check spam.
• Unlicensed contractors — many programs require licensed contractors; ask your program for their contractor list.
• Title issues (heirs’ property) — contact your city housing office or Legal Aid if the deed is unclear.

Phone Scripts (Short & Simple)

Calling Weatherization (WAP)

“Hi, I live in [city/county]. I’m the homeowner at [address]. My income is about [amount] for a household of [#]. I need energy and safety repairs. Can I apply to Weatherization? What documents should I bring?” (find provider)

Calling a City/County Rehab Program

“Hello, I’m calling about owner‑occupied home repair. My home needs [roof/HVAC/plumbing/accessibility]. I own and live at [address]. My household size is [#] with income about [amount]. How do I apply, and is there a wait‑list?” (Use the city table links.)

Calling USDA Rural Development (504)

“Hi, I’m in [county/town]. I own and live in my home. My income is about [amount]. I’d like to apply for Section 504 repair assistance. Can you tell me the steps and what forms I need?” (See the USDA Virginia office.)

Calling a Nonprofit (Rebuilding Together or project:HOMES)

“Hello, I’m seeking critical home repairs for health and safety. I’m low income and live at [address]. Can you tell me your service area, what repairs you do, and how to apply?” (See Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church or Richmond’s affiliate, or project:HOMES contact.)

FAQs (Virginia‑Specific)

Do programs help with manufactured/mobile homes?

Yes, some do. Virginia Beach runs a Manufactured Home Rehabilitation under its Home Rehabilitation. WAP can serve mobile homes if the structure is feasible (WAP page).

What if my income is slightly over the limit?

Try programs with higher thresholds or different rules (e.g., some Norfolk exterior programs allow up to 120% AMI; see Strengthening Neighborhoods). Also look at rebates like WarmWise and utility bill aid via EnergyShare.

How long will Weatherization take?

It varies by provider and season. DHCD suggests applying via the WAP page and staying in touch with your local agency. Many areas report several months between application and work due to audits, parts, and crew schedules.

Does Virginia fix heaters in winter emergencies?

Yes. The VDSS “Crisis” component covers emergency repair or replacement of heating equipment during the heating season. See the Energy Assistance program page for dates and details.

Can I get help with septic or well problems?

Yes. Check VDH’s SWAP and, in rural areas, SERCAP’s small grants. Some cities offer connection help (e.g., Newport News’ Septic Local Partner Grant).

What happens if my home was damaged by a storm?

Apply to FEMA first (see how to register) and watch VDEM’s state page. If you get FEMA aid, local programs can only cover remaining unmet needs (no duplication). DHCD may post state disaster funds during active events (VDAF page).

Will I have to repay the city’s “grant”?

Many local “grants” are deferred or forgivable loans recorded as a lien. If you sell or transfer the home within a term, you may owe part back. Ask your office to explain the lien terms in writing (years, forgiveness rate, hardship exceptions).

Is there anyone who can help me find programs and translate?

Yes. Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit 211 Virginia and request interpreter services. Many local programs can also arrange language access.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Resumen en español (guía breve)

Esta guía es para dueños de vivienda en Virginia con ingresos bajos o fijos (adultos mayores, personas con discapacidad, padres solteros, residentes rurales y veteranos). La meta es encontrar ayuda rápida para reparaciones de seguridad (techo, calefacción/aire, plomería, electricidad, accesibilidad).

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): reparaciones de energía y seguridad sin costo. Solicite por la página de DHCD Weatherization (busque su proveedor local).
• USDA Sección 504 (áreas rurales): préstamo al 1% (hasta 20 años) y beca para 62+. Empiece con la página de USDA 504 y la oficina de USDA Virginia.
• Programas de su ciudad/condado: Richmond Healthy Homes, Virginia Beach Rehabilitación, Norfolk Renovate Norfolk, Fairfax HREP, etc.
• Emergencias de calefacción: pida ayuda al programa “Crisis” en la página de VDSS.
• Fosas sépticas/pozos: VDH SWAP y SERCAP ayudas pequeñas.
• Veteranos con discapacidad: becas de vivienda adaptada (VA SAH/SHA) y “Granting Freedom” de Virginia Housing programas militares.

Si necesita ayuda para encontrar programas o un intérprete, llame al 2‑1‑1 o visite 211 Virginia.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Use HUD’s income limits tool to confirm the income level your program uses.
• Rural repairs: see USDA’s Section 504 page and contact the USDA Virginia office.
• Weatherization: apply via DHCD’s WAP page and its provider list.
• Disasters: watch Virginia Emergency Management’s VDEM page and use FEMA’s IA registration.
• Statewide referrals and interpreter services: 211 Virginia.

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