Home Repair Grants in West Virginia

This plain‑language guide is for West Virginia homeowners who need help with critical home repairs. It explains who may qualify, which programs to try first, how funds work (grants vs. loans), and the concrete 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

Read this if you are a West Virginia homeowner who is:

• A senior, a person with a disability, a single parent, or living on low income.
• In a rural area and need essential repairs or accessibility changes.
• Recovering from flood, storm, or landslide damage.
• Facing unsafe heat, electrical issues, roof leaks, failing septic, or similar hazards.

Quick check before you apply:

• You own and occupy the home in West Virginia (name on deed/title; manufactured homes can be trickier but sometimes eligible).
• Your household income fits the program’s limit (many use HUD “Area Median Income,” or AMI, or the federal poverty level). Use HUD’s income limits tool to see limits by county and family size.
• The repair addresses health, safety, accessibility, or energy problems (not cosmetic upgrades).

Top Programs in West Virginia (Quick Table)

All dollar figures are examples only. Actual amounts depend on inspection, eligibility, and budget. Always check each agency’s page for current caps and application windows.

Short Federal Snapshot (with links to apply)

• USDA 504 in WV: Rural homeowners can get 1% repair loans and, if age 62+, repair grants to eliminate health/safety hazards. Start on the USDA’s West Virginia Rural Development page and review the national Section 504 program. For background in plain language, see this USDA 504 guide.
• Weatherization in WV: The state WAP is run through Community Action agencies. Apply via your county provider listed on the state WAP page.
• FEMA disaster help: After presidential declarations (WV had winter flooding and June floods in 2025), affected households can apply on DisasterAssistance.gov and watch FEMA’s WV notices like the February 2025 flood press release and the July 2025 flood notice. Keep receipts for repairs as FEMA explains in their receipt guidance. Also check the state’s Emergency Management Division updates.

West Virginia Programs (Core Section)

1) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): no‑cost energy and safety work

WAP funds are not cash to you; they pay a local provider to add insulation, seal air leaks, install detectors, repair or replace unsafe heating systems, and similar cost‑effective measures confirmed by an energy audit. Apply through your local Community Action provider listed on the state’s Weatherization page. You can also find agencies on the WV Community Action Partnership map.

Eligibility is generally ≤200% of poverty, with priority for elderly, disabled, families with children, or high energy burden homes, per the state’s WAP page. Expect a waitlist in many counties.

2) LIHEAP Repair & Replace Program (RRP): emergency heat/cool fix

RRP is part of LIHEAP, for households with unsafe, failed, or no heating/cooling. It repairs or replaces primary systems. Rules and dates are posted on the state’s LIHEAP RRP page, and intake is coordinated through the Department of Human Services’ LIEAP program. RRP targets households at or below 60% of State Median Income and requires a senior (60+), a child under 6, or a person with a disability in the home.

If your heat was shut off or is unsafe, ask about the emergency window listed on the DoHS emergency LIEAP notice and use the online application portal linked from the LIEAP page.

3) WV Housing Development Fund (WVHDF) On‑Site Systems Loan: septic/wastewater fixes

If a failing septic is your main issue, WVHDF offers an affordable loan for repairs or connection to public systems: up to $10,000 at 2% over 10 years. See the On‑Site Systems Loan page for rules and contacts.

4) City programs (CDBG/HOME‑funded owner repairs)

Several cities use HUD funds for owner‑occupied home repairs. Programs can be grants, forgivable loans (a lien is recorded and forgiveness happens after years of occupancy), or 0%/low‑rate loans. Examples:

• Charleston: Owner‑Occupied Rehabilitation (loan) and Emergency Rehabilitation (grant) through the city’s Housing Programs.
• Wheeling: A repair assistance grant up to $5,000 for exterior/weatherization items—see the city’s program launch page.
• Huntington: Project SHINE provides free minor exterior repairs and accessibility improvements using volunteers; see the city’s Project SHINE notice.
• Parkersburg: Emergency home repair grants (often around $6,000) appear under housing initiatives—see details and contacts via the county incentives/credits page.

Many city programs run in short cycles and waitlists fill quickly. Check each city’s community development page for current status and income limits.

5) Utility and new rebate help (energy upgrades)

• Appalachian Power funds low‑income weatherization and rebates listed on its TakeCharge West Virginia site, including a Low‑Income Weatherization program that supplements state and federal help.
• WV Office of Energy rebates (Home Energy Rebates): the state received federal approval in 2025 and is building programs for whole‑home efficiency and electrification. See the WV Office of Energy rebate hub and the Home Efficiency Rebates page for eligibility and updates.

Rebates are usually not upfront grants. They reduce cost after approved work by certified contractors. Read each program’s “before you start” rules on the WV Office of Energy eligibility page.

City & County Programs (Where to Look)

Smaller towns often have “Owner‑Occupied Rehabilitation” using CDBG/HOME funds. Call your City Hall or Community Development office and ask about owner repair programs and current application dates.

Income Limits & Who Usually Qualifies

Programs use different income measures. Some use a percent of Area Median Income (AMI) from HUD. Others use poverty guidelines (like WAP 200% of poverty) or State Median Income (LIHEAP). Always check the exact rules posted on the program’s page.

• To look up your local AMI numbers, use HUD’s income limits tool (choose your county/MSA and household size).
• For WAP/LIHEAP energy programs, the state’s LIEAP page and WAP rules on WVCAD list current thresholds and priority groups.

Examples only (HUD AMI figures vary by area and change annually): for a 4‑person household, 80% of AMI is generally in the low $60,000s in the Charleston area and roughly the upper $70,000s in the Morgantown area; Wheeling’s 80% AMI for 4 persons is around the mid $60,000s. Confirm your exact numbers in HUD’s Income Limits tool.

Some programs use 50% AMI, some 80%, and others use different cutoffs. Read the program’s page carefully.

Special Groups & Short Examples

Seniors (age 62+)

• Start with USDA 504 if you are rural, because grants (up to $10,000) are only for homeowners 62+ with hazards to remove—see program basics on Section 504 Repair.
• For energy and safety work, apply to your county Weatherization provider listed on the state WAP page. Emergency HVAC needs may qualify under the state’s LIHEAP RRP.

Background guide (not an agency): a plain‑English overview at Home repair grants for seniors.

Example: A 70‑year‑old homeowner near Summersville with a cracked furnace and fixed income could get a LIHEAP RRP emergency replacement through the provider listed on the state LIHEAP RRP page, and then be added to the Weatherization waitlist via the WAP network.

Veterans

• For major accessibility work (ramps, baths, wide doors), look at VA disability housing grants: SAH/SHA amounts for FY 2026 are posted on VA’s disability housing grants page.
• For small critical repairs, ask local nonprofits like Rebuilding Together Charleston (Kanawha/Putnam) and your county’s Community Action agency listed via WVCAP agencies.

Example: A service‑connected veteran in Wheeling using a wheelchair may pursue a VA SAH adaptation detailed on VA’s grant page, while also applying to the city’s repair assistance program for exterior items.

Disabled homeowners & families with kids

• Weatherization prioritizes homes with disabilities and children; start with your county provider on the state WAP page.
• Emergency heating/cooling failures may be addressed under LIHEAP RRP if a disability or a child under age 6 is in the household.

Rural homeowners

• For structural hazards (roof, wiring, plumbing), begin with USDA Rural Development WV for the 1% loan and (for 62+) grant option under Section 504.
• For failing septic, the WV Housing Development Fund’s On‑Site Systems Loan offers an affordable fix.

Step‑by‑Step Action Plan

Today (or as soon as you can)

1. Make a short list of problems (e.g., “roof leak over kitchen,” “furnace broken,” “unsafe wiring”). Take photos.
2. Gather documents: ID, deed or title, last year’s tax return or benefit letters, recent pay stubs, utility bills, and any contractor estimates.
3. If heat/cooling is unsafe or failed, contact your county LIHEAP RRP provider listed on the LIHEAP RRP page and submit a LIEAP request via the DoHS LIEAP portal.

This week

1. Apply for Weatherization through your county provider on the WAP page. Ask about priority and estimated wait times.
2. If you are rural and very‑low income, call USDA on the USDA WV page about Section 504. Ask how to complete the intake form and what documents you need.
3. If you live in Charleston, Wheeling, Huntington, Parkersburg, etc., check your city’s community development page (Charleston Housing Programs, Wheeling repair assistance, Huntington Project SHINE) and ask about current cycles.

This month

1. Get at least one written estimate for the big repair (if the program allows contractor choice). Do not start work before written approval.
2. Check WV energy rebates for future upgrades on the WV Office of Energy page and utility offers on TakeCharge WV.
3. If you were affected by a declared disaster, register on DisasterAssistance.gov and review FEMA’s receipt submission guidance.

Weatherization waitlists can be months long. Apply early, keep your phone on, and respond quickly if your provider asks for more documents.

Plan B, Appeals, and Common Mistakes

• If denied: Ask for the reason in writing. Ask if there’s an appeal or a way to fix the application (missing docs, income proof, title issues). Ask when to reapply.
• Try alternatives: Another city/county program, USDA 504, a smaller utility rebate via TakeCharge WV, or nonprofit help from groups like Rebuilding Together Charleston.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes):

• Starting work before approval → Wait for a written award/contract.
• Using an unlicensed contractor → Use licensed/insured contractors as required by the city/state.
• Unclear title (heirs’ property) → Call HUD WV’s resources page for legal help and contact Legal Aid of West Virginia before you apply.
• Missing calls/emails → Provide a good phone and backup contact; check voicemail and spam.

“Duplication of benefits” rule: You cannot be paid twice for the same damage. For disasters, if FEMA paid for part of your roof, other programs usually can only fund the uncovered portion. Keep all receipts and award letters, as FEMA explains on the receipt guidance page.

Phone Scripts (short & practical)

Calling a Weatherization/LIHEAP provider

“Hi, my name is ___. I live in ___ County. I have a broken [furnace/AC] and need Weatherization and LIHEAP Repair & Replace. Can you tell me what documents you need and how soon I can apply? I’m 68 and live with my grandson. My number is ___.”

Calling your city’s rehab program

“Hello, I’m a homeowner at [address] in [city]. I saw the [Emergency Rehab/Owner‑Occupied Rehab] on your website. I have [roof leak/electrical hazard]. Do you have an open application round now? What income limits and documents are required?”

Calling USDA Rural Development about 504

“Good morning. I’m calling about Section 504 Home Repair in [county]. I’m a homeowner, age [62+/under 62], and my income is about $__ per month. Could you pre‑screen me and email the application checklist? I can come to the Morgantown office if needed.”

Calling a nonprofit repair group

“Hi, I’m trying to keep my home safe. Do you help with [ramps/minor repairs]? I live in [city/county]. What is your intake process and how long is your waitlist?”

FAQs (West Virginia‑Specific)

Q1. Can I get help if my home is a manufactured home?
It depends. Some programs require the home be on a permanent foundation and titled as real property. Weatherization on the state WAP page can often serve mobile/manufactured homes if the building passes eligibility checks. Ask first about your specific unit and title status.

Q2. My furnace failed—who do I call first?
For emergencies, check LIHEAP Repair & Replace via the state LIHEAP RRP page and submit a LIEAP application through the DoHS site. Also join the Weatherization waitlist on the WAP page.

Q3. I’m just over the income limit. What now?
Try city programs that sometimes allow slightly higher incomes, and look at rebates (not income‑based) through the WV Office of Energy and utility offerings at TakeCharge WV. You can also call WV 211 to ask about local nonprofits that do small repairs.

Q4. Will a grant put a lien on my home?
Many city/HOME rehab “grants” are forgivable loans recorded as liens for a set period. If you sell or move before the forgiveness period ends, you may owe some or all back. Charleston’s rehab programs list rules on the Housing Programs page. Always ask, “Will there be a lien and for how long?”

Q5. I had flood damage in 2025—FEMA vs. SBA vs. USDA?
Register on DisasterAssistance.gov first. FEMA can help make the home safe and livable, as noted in FEMA’s WV guidance on assistance availability. If you still have a gap, SBA disaster loans may help with repair costs (see SBA’s WV disaster notices). For rural, long‑term hazards, ask USDA about Section 504 repair.

Q6. Do programs help with septic repair?
Yes. WVHDF has a specific On‑Site Systems Loan for septic repairs or public sewer connections. Weatherization sometimes addresses minor health/safety items, but septic is usually outside WAP’s scope.

Q7. Taxes, SSI, or SNAP—will grants affect me?
Ask the agency and a tax professional. Energy rebates and Weatherization services are generally not taxable, but cash assistance may have specific rules. When in doubt, call the program or dial WV 211 and ask for a referral to free tax counseling.

Q8. I’m worried about title (heirs’ property). Can I still get help?
Some programs require clear title. If title is cloudy, contact Legal Aid of West Virginia and review resources linked on HUD’s West Virginia page. Fixing title early saves time.

One‑Page Checklist & Contact Summary

Quick checklist

• List urgent problems (with photos).
• Check income limits with HUD’s income limits tool (AMI) and the state’s LIEAP page (energy aid).
• Gather documents: ID, deed/title, income proof, utility bills, estimates.
• Apply to: LIHEAP RRP (if no/unsafe heat), Weatherization (WAP), city rehab (if open), USDA 504 (rural), and utility/state rebates.
• Track: program, date applied, case number, contact name/phone, requested docs.

Key contacts (save these)

Resumen en español (corto)

Esta guía es para dueños de vivienda en West Virginia con ingresos bajos o fijos (personas mayores, con discapacidades, familias con niños, y residentes rurales). Enfóquese primero en programas que arreglan riesgos de salud y seguridad.

• Calefacción/aire en emergencia: Llame al programa de LIHEAP (LIEAP) y pida “Repair & Replace (RRP)”. La página de LIEAP está en Departamento de Servicios Humanos. El programa RRP y los proveedores están en LIHEAP RRP.
• Clima y seguridad del hogar: Aplique a Weatherization (aislamiento, sellado, detectores, hornos seguros). El mapa de agencias está en Programa de Weatherization.
• Zona rural: Revise la ayuda de USDA Sección 504 (préstamo al 1% y, para mayores de 62 años, subvención). Empiece en la página estatal USDA WV.
• Programas de ciudades: Charleston, Wheeling y otras ciudades tienen reparaciones para dueños ocupantes. Vea programas de Charleston y la ayuda de Wheeling.
• ¿Necesita intérprete? Llame al 211 de West Virginia y pida ayuda con intérprete. Explique su problema (techo, horno, electricidad) y su ingreso.

Reminder and Where to Double‑Check Information

• Confirm income limits with HUD’s income limits tool and your city’s current notices.
• For rural repairs, see the USDA’s West Virginia Rural Development page and the national Section 504 page.
• For energy/weatherization and emergency HVAC, use the WVCAD pages for WAP and LIHEAP RRP, and the DoHS LIEAP page.
• For disasters, check FEMA’s WV notices and register at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• To find live help, dial WV 211 and ask for referrals and interpreter services if needed.

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