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Loading...North Carolina has over 203 approved home improvement grants, repairs grants, programs and local resources available to low income homeowner families and individuals (most programs are not based on income). This article provides you with all the main home repair programs offered throughout the state in 2024.
We know that budgeting for home repairs can be tough. Our 2024 Home Repair Survey found 1/4 of North Carolina homeowners have to delay repairs, and more than half delay repairs for financial reasons:
- 24% of homeowners can’t afford repairs.
- 54% of homeowners postpone repairs for financial reasons.
So you’re not alone. The programs below will help you find those funds for your home.
Who provide home improvement grants in NC?
There are 5 main sources of financial assistance for home improvement and repair in North Carolina:
- 1- Federal Programs : HUD (Housing and Urban Development) is the Federal housing agency providing programs and funds to the State, its Counties and Cities.
- 2- State of NC Program : NC’s Housing Finance Authority has a program to help with home improvements.
- 3- Community Organizations: Many local non-profits can help homeowners make important urgent repair to their home.
- 4- Counties and cities programs : are the organizations offering funds and programs to help NC homeowners with home repair, home rehabilitation and home improvement with more than $118M.
- 5- Rural programs: are for people living outside of a major city in a rural area and are offered by the USDA (over $1M for homeowners repairs).
You can review the Federal and the State of North Carolina home repair grants but ultimately your county and city are the ones you need to contact and where you apply for funding.
Who is eligible for government home improvement grant?
In general all homeowners are eligible for home improvement and repairs grants and assistance in North Carolina (find them all below). In reality, because the needs are so big, some groups like seniors, veterans, disabled and low-income households are given priority. Even in those case, you need to apply as soon as possible because funds are limited.
So it’s often first arrived first served basis: apply early.
Each program has their own eligibility, so you need to verify with programs in your area to see info you meet the income eligibility level.
NC’s general eligibility by income and locations:
| Cities & Suburbs | Rural | |
|---|---|---|
| Low income | HUD, WAP, Cities & Counties programs, State, Disasters, Community Organisations, | USDA, WAP, Cities & Counties programs, State, Disasters, Community Organisations, |
|
Medium/High income |
Home Improvement Loans, State, Disasters, HUD | USDA, Home Improvement Loans, State, Disasters. |
The important thing to keep it mind it that most programs can help with a broad range of home repairs. For example, there’s not only 1 roof program but many programs can help with roof repairs. That’s why we created the projects summary below.
Jump to a project:
| Window (8) | Heating & HVAC (9) |
| Roof (7) | Foundation (7) |
| Electrical (7) | Bathroom (6) |
| Plumbing (7) | Remodel (7) |
| Sewer & water (5) | Asbestos & lead (5) |
Jump to a group:
| Seniors (9) | City & suburb (9) |
| Disabled (9) | Rural (5) |
| Veterans (7) |
FAQ
Can I get a $10,000 grant for home improvement?
What free government grants for homeowners for repairs exist?
Who is eligible for government home improvement grant?
Confused about home improvement programs terms?
Who is eligible for government home improvement grant?
In general all homeowners are eligible for home improvement and repairs grants and assistance in North Carolina (find them all below). In reality, because the needs are so big, some groups like seniors, veterans, disabled and low-income households are given priority. Even in those case, you need to apply as soon as possible because funds are limited.
So it’s often first arrived first served basis: apply early.
Each program has their own eligibility, so you need to verify with programs in your area to see info you meet the income eligibility level.
North Carolina’s general eligibility by income and locations:
| Cities & Suburbs | Rural | |
|---|---|---|
| Low income | HUD, WAP, Cities & Counties programs, State, Disasters, Community Organisations, | USDA, WAP, Cities & Counties programs, State, Disasters, Community Organisations, |
|
Medium/High income |
Home Improvement Loans, State, Disasters, HUD | USDA, Home Improvement Loans, State, Disasters. |
Important reminder: Programs such as cities or counties assistance programs determine eligibility based on the median income in your area. This means that even if you have a moderate income, you might qualify for these programs if you live in a wealthier area. In other words, it’s better to verify your edibility with each programs first before thinking you won’t be able to receive funding for your project.
Can I get a $10,000 grant for home improvement?
Can you get a $10,000 grant for home improvement? Quick answer is yes. Find on this page all the information you need for home improvement programs by the State of North Carolina, by cities and by counties. Learn: how much they provide, if you’re eligible and where to apply.
What free government grants for homeowners for repairs exist?
In general in North Carolina repair grants for homeowners can help with:
- – Make sure your home does not harm the residents’ health.
- – Make sure your home structure is sound and may not hurt its resident.
- – Help renovate or repair some major part(s) of your home.
- – Help seniors and disabled residents stay in their homes longer and safer.
Windows replacement (8 programs)
Windows are expensive; broken windows, no longer opening, warped frame, drafty and leaking air are a few among many common signs homeowners’ windows need repair or replaced. See also the Windows Replacement Guide for common window problems and replacements. We have a separate resource explaining the programs for windows replacement in North Carolina.
Window programs for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, WAP, Community Organisations, Disasters
Window programs for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, WAP, Community Organisations, Disasters
Window programs for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Window programs for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Roof Replacement (7 programs)
Storm debris and damages, roof at the end of their lifespan, hail and wind are always signs of big expenses when it comes to a home roof. But not everyone have a sizable amount ready at any time to fix or replace its roof. See also our Guide to repair or change your roof.
Once it’s time to find a roofer, our community selection of North Carolina’ best roofers can help.
Roof help for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Roof help for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Roof help for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Roof help for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Foundation repair assistance (7 programs)
Cracks, uneven settling/heaving, soil conditions and drainage system issues are the most common problems requiring foundation repair.
Foundation help for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Foundation help for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Foundation help for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Foundation help for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Electrical & plumbing assistance (7 programs)
Electrical: Faulty wiring, circuit breaker problems, and electrical panel issues are major concerns.
Plumbing: Leaky pipes, water heater malfunctions, and clogged drains are common plumbing problems.
Electrical and plumbing help for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Electrical and plumbing help for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Electrical and plumbing help for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Electrical and plumbing help for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Heating & cooling, HVAC assistance (9 programs)
Furnace, boiler and HVAC malfunctions, thermostat problems, and duct work leaks cause heating issues while AC compressor failures, refrigerant leaks, and airflow restrictions are major cooling problems.
Furnace and hvac programs for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Furnace and hvac programs for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Furnace and hvac programs for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Furnace and hvac programs for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Asbestos, lead paints & pipes removal (5 programs)
Lead paint and asbestos in are still one of the main health hazard in older homes. Removing them is costly and most local governments have a program to help homeowners removing this hazard.
Asbestos and lead programs for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Asbestos and lead programs for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Asbestos and lead programs for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Asbestos and lead programs for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Sewer & water line repair or replacement (5 programs)
Fortunately frequent but replacing water line or sewers pipes is very costly. The programs below can help fund this repair or replacement depending of your income and where you live.
Water and sewer programs for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Water and sewer programs lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Cities & Counties programs, Community Organisations, Disasters
Water and sewer programs medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Water and sewer programs medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Home remodeling incentives (7 programs)
In some cases a home can be remodeled if they need major repairs as long as the cost is not prohibitive. Since the total amount vary by program you have to verify on this page for programs in your area.
Lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Bathroom remodel assistance (6 programs)
The programs’ goal is to bring bathroom to sanitary and health standards. Improving the bathroom finishing can be done with your own funds or a loan.
Lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Medium and higher income in a rural area:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Home modifications for disabled (9 programs)
Having a disability create issues in a home. Most funding resources let you upgrade and make modifications to your home in order to be able to live in it much longer. Ramps, bathroom and kitchen modifications, installation of grab bars, doorways enlargement, are all covered by accessibility programs.
Accessibility modifications for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Accessibility modifications for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Accessibility modifications for medium and higher income in a rural area:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Accessibility modifications for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Home modifications for Seniors (9 programs)
Most programs help you upgrade and make modifications to your home in order to be able to live in it much longer as a senior. Ramps, bathroom and kitchen modifications, installation of grab bars, are all covered by home adaptation programs for seniors.
Local Area Agency on Aging can also often help with some repairs.
You can find resources below and the curated resource for senior home modifications.
Senior home modifications for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Senior home modifications for lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Senior home modifications for medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Senior home modifications for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Cities and suburbs homeowners (9 programs)
Living in a city is often more expensive and there are home improvement programs available to city and suburbs homeowners.
Home repair programs for lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations
Home improvement for medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Home Improvement Loans
Rural Homeowners (4 programs)
Homeowners in rural areas have to rely on less external resources but there are still resources available to them for home repair and improvements.
Rural homeowner with a lower income:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Rural homeowner with a medium and higher income:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Disasters: FEMA in North Carolina (10s if resources)
When the Federal Agency FEMA declare some area(s) of North Carolina a disaster area, the area’s residents can then apply for financial aid.
You can find if your area is declared a disaster area by FEMA here then if it is, claim disaster assistance with the federal government. If you’re impacted by a disaster, you may be able to claim housing, financial, food, medical, etc.
SBA (4 programs)
North Carolina Disaster Recovery & Emergency Management
If you have been in a natural disaster, you may qualify for North Carolina’s Individual Assistance Grant for disasters. These free grants for homeowners for repairs are for any time after a natural disaster to help repair things that are broken during one.
Veterans Home Repair and Rehabilitation (7 programs)
The VA provide grants and loans to help veterans to adapt their housing to their needs when they have a disability. . And naturally, veterans are also eligible to all existing home improvement programs:
Veteran with a lower income living in a city or suburb:
HUD, Cities & Counties programs, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Veteran with a lower income living in a rural area:
USDA, State, Community Organisations, Disasters
Veteran with a medium and higher income in a rural area:
USDA, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
Veteran with a medium and higher income in a city or suburb:
HUD, State, Disasters, Home Improvement Loans
HUD (Urban Housing Department) (2 programs)
HUD is the federal agency funding the States’ Housing agencies, Counties and Cities. HUD have many programs from home buyer help, renter help, homeowners funding among many for home repairs and improvements.
2 loans programs helps people renovate, rehabilitate or improve their home (mobile homes included) in North Carolina. Both are loan insurances for homeowners who couldn’t otherwise get a loan:
Rehabilitation and repair loan (insurance): Known as “Title I Property Improvement Loan Program”, it helps you if you have not enough equity for a traditional loan, and the FHA (part of HUD) insure your loan for your lender.
- – House Loan amount limit: $25,000
- – Mobile home Loan amount limit: $25,090
203(k) Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance: This a special FHA loan that allows you to finance both the purchase or refinancing of a house and the cost of renovations into a single mortgage.
- – Limited 203k loan: Projects less than $35,000.
- – Standard 203k loan: Projects over $35,000.
In both Tittle 1 and 203(k), the money for the renovations is put in an escrow account and is only released to the contractor when the work is completed and inspected by a qualified professional. This helps ensure that the renovations are done properly and that the money is used for its intended purpose. It protects both the lender and you the homeowner.
NC Housing Finance Authority (2 programs)
NC’s housing department has 2 programs to help with, among other things, home improvements.
Essential Single-Family Rehabilitation (ESFR): This program offers financing for major repairs to North Carolina homeowners who are elderly or have disabilities and have incomes below 80% of the median for their area.
Urgent Repair Program (URP): Administered by the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, the URP provides financing for emergency home repairs for elderly homeowners or those with special needs. The program assists North Carolina homeowners in addressing urgent repair needs. More information can be found on the NCHFA website.
NC’s community organizations (153 resources)
Community Action Agencies of NC (34 resources)
These non-profit organisations offer many services to Texas residents. Two of them are urgent home repairs and the other is weatherization.
Both programs usually reply on state, county and federal funding to provide help at no or minimal cost.
Habitat for Humanity (60 programs)
With 60 local organizations in NC and its volunteers, Habitat provide help to low income, disable and elderly homeowners to fix their home. Find and contact your local Habitat organization in North Carolina.
Habitat ReStores (56 resources)
ReStores provide discounted used and surplus building materials, plus appliances and furniture in over 56 location throughout the state.
Rebuilding Together (3 local resources)
RT helps homeowners in need repair or modify their home and be able to live safely in it much longer. RT have 3 local chapters in Charlotte greater area, Pitt County and the Triangle Area.
Veteran Affair (1 program)
Home improvement & modification: Program provides medically necessary improvements and structural alterations to Veterans/Service members’ primary residence for $6,800.
Work purposes:
– Allowing entrance to or exit from the primary residence
– Use of essential lavatory and sanitary facilities (e.g. roll in showers)
– Allowing accessibility to kitchen or bathroom sinks or counters (e.g. lowering counters/sinks)
– Improving entrance paths or driveways in immediate area of the home to facilitate access to the home through construction of permanent ramping
– Improving plumbing or electrical systems made necessary due to installation of home medical equipment
Find more details and how to apply
North Carolina’s WAP & LIHEAP (2 programs)
WAP: Weatherization Assistant Program (WAP) is funded by the Federal but managed locally. It helps improve or change windows for energy efficient ones at no cost. It also pay for attic insulation and ventilation, repair or replace broken heating, cooling and water heaters, as well as many other small work to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
| Spent per Home | Homes Weatherized | Budget | |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina |
$8,008 |
6,298 | $69M |
Types of assistance:
- – Address air infiltration with weather stripping, caulking, thresholds, minor repairs to walls, ceilings and floors, and window and door replacement
- – Install attic and floor insulation.
- – Install attic ventilation.
- – Apply solar reflective coating to manufactured homes.
- – Install solar screens.
- – Repair or replace inefficient heating and cooling units.
- – Repair or replace water heaters.
Find the program detail and contact your local organization managing WAP.
LIHEAP: This program is mostly to help pay your heating and cooling cost but it may also help fix, repair or replace broken windows for energy efficient ones.
Find more info about the program eligibility and your county department of social services LIHEAP.
North Carolina Rural Residents
The USDA provide home improvement loans and government grants to low-income homeowners in NC’s rural areas. This program is also called the “Section 504 Home Repair program“.
NC homeowner amounts:
Grant (average): $8,500
Loan (average): $9,400
Who may apply for this program? To qualify, you must:
- – Be the homeowner and occupy the house.
- – Be unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere.
- – Have a family income below 50 percent of the area median income.
- – For grants, be age 62 or older and not be able to repay a repair loan.
What is an eligible area?
Applicants may check the address of their home to determine eligibility.
How may funds be used?
Loans may be used to repair, improve or modernize housing or remove health and safety hazards.
Grants must be used to remove health and safety hazards.
How much money can I get?
- – Maximum loan is $40,000
- – Maximum grant is $10,000
- – Loans and grants can be combined for up to $50,000 in payment assistance
What are the terms of the loan or grant?
- – Loans can be repaid over 20 years
- – Loan interest rate is fixed at 1%
- – Full title service is required for loans of $25,000 or more
- – Grants have a lifetime limit of $10,000
- – Grants must be repaid if the property is sold in less than 3 years
- – If applicants can repay part, but not all of the costs, applicants may be offered a loan and grant combination
Is there a deadline to apply?
Applications for this program are accepted through your local USDA’s RD office all year round.
How long does an application take?
Approval times depend on funds availability in your area.
Seniors and Elderly Help for Home Repairs
There are official elderly home repair assistance in North Carolina but they are not only for seniors. Seniors, just like all North Carolinian, are eligible to the same home improvement programs listed on this page.
You can also contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find local programs for seniors home repairs and home modifications.
You can also find home modification programs for seniors
Counties and Cities Programs (51 programs)
Most North Carolina counties have approved home repair and government grant programs and most major cities also have similar help for homeowners. Cities and counties received over $118M ($77M CDGB + $41M HOME) last fiscal year to help residents with various programs.
If you don’t see your county or city below you should contact it directly and ask them if the city have a home repair program.
Wake County (0 program)
City of Raleigh (3 programs)
Limited Repair Program: Provides repairs to one or more faulty systems such as roof, heating and cooling systems, electrical, plumbing or structural problems. The maximum loan amount is $15,000. Loans have deferred payment with 0% interest loan, and are forgiven after five years unless the borrower defaults.
Raleigh Home Revitalization Program: This program provides home repairs and maintenance assistance to qualifying residents of Raleigh [2]. The maximum loan amount is typically $30,000, and loans are deferred payment with 0% interest, forgiven after five years unless the borrower defaults.
Homeowner Rehabilitation Program: Helps homeowners 62 years or older OR have a disability to finance the cost of major repairs to homes. Maximum loan amount is typically $90,000. Loans are deferred payment with 0% interest, and are forgiven after five years unless the borrower defaults.
City of Cary (1 program)
Healthy Homes Cary: Program helps residents age in place, preserve safe and sanitary housing, correct hazardous structural conditions, eliminate blight, and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities. Eligible home repairs grant up to $12,500.
Types of Repairs:
- – Repairs or upgrades to improve energy efficiency
- – Emergency repairs, such as roof or furnace replacement
- – Exterior repairs like new siding, new windows, and porch repairs
- – Repairs to items that affect the homeowner’s health and safety
- – Repairs to make the home accessible for people with disabilities
- – Repairs to help residents age in place
- – Treatment of lead-based paint or asbestos hazards
City of Apex (1 program)
Housing Rehabilitation: Program assists low-income homeowners with needed repairs that keep their homes safe and sanitary, fix hazardous structural conditions, help residents age in place, and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities. The amount is limited to $15,000 per household within a 5 year period.
Types of repairs include, but are not limited to:
- – Correction of code violations
- – Testing and treatment / removal of lead-based paint/asbestos hazards
- – Repair / replace interior features like kitchen and bath flooring, bath fixtures, insulation, smoke alarms, countertops, and carpet
- – Repair / replace features like windows, screens, plaster, siding and stucco, and deadbolt locks
- – Removal of barriers and Interior accessibility improvements for persons with disabilities
- – Repairs or improvements to allow residents to age in place, such as: installation of grab bars in hallways and showers, stair lifts, and walk-in tubs
- – Cost-effective energy conservation measures, including solar heating, cooling, and water systems permanently affixed to dwelling
Mecklenburg County (0 program)
The county does not have its own program but the cities of Charlotte and Huntersville have their own (see below)
City of Charlotte (3 programs)
Safe Home Home Rehabilitation: Provides deferred loans to low-income homeowners to address home repairs. Program correct code and incipient violations (items needing to be repaired or replaced within 2-3 years) and make general property improvements. Application Period: Oct. 1 – Nov. 27
LeadSafe Charlotte: Provides grants to assist low-income homeowners to address unsafe lead paint that pose a potential health hazard to young children. Program assists owners of single and multi-family dwellings built before 1978 and investor owners of properties with two or more bedrooms. Some of the services offered for those who qualify:
- – Free lead inspections at your home
- – Free blood testing of children (finger stick)
- – Free remediation of lead hazards at your home or rental property
Safe Home Emergency Repair: Address immediate threats to the health and safety of residents of single-family housing which resulted from a system failure. Funding is provided in the form of a grant to the homeowner, and no liens or deed restrictions are placed on the property.
Requirements to be considered an emergency repair:
- – System failure occurred within three days of the application date
- – System failures are limited to the failure of an HVAC system (November-March), gas leaks, broken or defective water or sewer lines, electrical system failure, septic tank failure, and other events outside of the control of the owner which render the unit uninhabitable.
- – System failure can be isolated and repaired within 10 days of the Inspector’s Certification
- – Cost to make the Emergency Repair does not exceed $7,500, based on contractor bids
All 3 programs details are here.
City of Huntersville (0 program)
No official city program but residents are eligible to Mecklenburg’s county home repair program found on this page.
Guilford County (3 programs)
PTRC Housing Rehabilitation: Program provided (by the Piedmont Triad Regional Council) help with septic system replacement, well replacement, roof repair & replacement, lead paint & asbestos remediation, door & window replacement, plumbing, electrical, heating & air conditioning repair & replacement, siding repair & replacement, accessibility modifications and other general improvements. Once approved, you can receive funding in the form of an interest-free, deferred loan, forgiven at $3,000 a year, to pay for necessary repairs.
Eligibility (1 of those criterias):
- – 62 years of age or up
- – A Veteran
- – Recipient of Social Security or Disability benefits
- – A child under the age of 6 exposed to lead based paint in the home
Weatherization program: Helps low income, elderly, or disabled residents in seven counties in the Piedmont Triad have reliable, efficient, and safe ways to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Home repair: Community Housing Solutions (CHS) provides home repairs to qualifying families who are owner-occupants of Guilford County homes and are below specific income levels. Work may include but are not limited to: roofs, plumbing, floors, energy efficiency repairs, accessibility modifications, electrical hazards, and code violations.
City of Greensboro (2 programs)
Lead-Safe Housing Program: Assist low-income homeowners with addressing unsafe lead paint conditions that pose a potential health hazard.
Repairs include but are not limited to:
- – Removing and replacing windows and doors identified with lead-based paint hazards
- – Painting or siding the exterior of a home with lead-based paint hazards
- – Repairing interior doors to ensure smooth operation, which reduces the occurrence of lead-contaminated paint dust.
Housing Repair Program: Aim to correct all major housing code and structural problems, making your home safe and comfortable for many years. Loans are offered to homeowners with low to moderate income. It’s a rehabilitation loans, both deferred and repayable, are available at 0% and 3% interest for the actual cost of rehabilitation. Cost of repairs cannot be more than $60,000. You can take up to 20 years to repay the loan.
City of High Point (1 program)
Urgent Repair: Program alleviate conditions that pose an imminent threat to the life and safety of very low-income homeowners
City of Burlington (2 programs)
Urgent Repair Program: Repairs address imminent threats to the life and/or safety of occupants in the form of an unsecured deferred, interest-free, forgivable loan.
Residential Rehabilitation: Program goal is to bring property up to city code in the form of a forgivable loan.
Eligible Types of Repairs:
Non‐functioning bathrooms and kitchens, Roofs, Foundations, Floors, ceilings walls & flooring covering, Plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems or system components, Water/sewer service lines, Structural defects, Accessibility impediments, Doors/windows, Interior and exterior painting, Cabinetry, Siding, Garages/carports repair, Masonry, Carpentry, Fascia, Weatherization and energy efficient upgrades, Lead‐based paint mitigation and removal, Repairs to fences/block walls if deteriorated, Activities related to preservation of historic structures, Code violations cited and documented by the City, Insulation, Bath/Kitchen Remodel (accessibility issues, rotted wood), Chimney repair/Dry rot repairs, Electrical,Deck (only if main entry/exit).
Forsyth County (1 program)
Housing Rehabilitation: Program use 3 existing home repair funds to do their work and depending on the programs the type of money received will vary. In other words, you need to apply to find out which type of forgivable loan you would receive.
Find more info and application
City of Winston-Salem (4 programs)
Home rehabilitation: Program brings substandard properties up to the minimum housing code to address unsafe conditions and code violations. It focuses on major systems repairs less than $65,000:
- – Roofing and gutters
- – Electrical
- – Plumbing and Water Heaters
- – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- – Structural/flooring
Emergency Repairs: Program remedies conditions posing an imminent threat to the integrity of the structure or to the occupant’s health or safety. One repair less than $15,000.00 to a major system:
- – Roofing and gutters
- – Electrical
- – Plumbing and Water Heaters
- – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- – Structural/flooring
Barrier Removal: Program’s goal is to improve the mobility and accessibility of handicapped persons in their home and make it handicap accessible. Cost can’t exceed $15,000.00
Lead abatement: Program addresses lead hazard concerns in homes built prior to 1978.
See details and application for all 4 programs.
Cumberland County (2 programs)
Housing Rehabilitation: Program repairs substandard housing in the form of a deferred forgivable loan. In other words, deferred loans are forgiven annually.
Home improvement: Program helps seniors 60 and older pay for small fixes and other home modifications, helping them stay longer in their home:
- – Installation of Security Features
- – Mobility and Accessibility Modifications
- – Minor Home Repairs
City of Fayetteville (2 programs)
Homeowner Rehabilitation & Emergency Home Repair: Program assists with emergency repairs for low to moderate-income homeowners. The program is managed by Fayetteville Urban Ministry.
Water & Sewer Assistance: Program provides grants for low to moderate-income homeowners up to $2,000 when water or sewer is made available to a neighborhood. A $900 grant is available to assist low to moderate-income homeowners with the cost of hiring a licensed plumber to connect the structure to the new line.
Contact info is in the Homeowner Resources on this page.
Durham County (0 program)
The county does not have a home improvement program, but the City of Durham does (see below).
City of Durham (3 programs)
Minor Repair: Program helps low-income homeowners correct substandard housing conditions that pose an imminent threat to life, safety, or accessibility.
Repairs may include:
- – Plumbing
- – Roofing
- – Ramps & Railings
- – Drainage & Grading
- – Heating and/or Air Conditioning
- – Framing & Exterior Trim
- – Electrical
- – Flooring
- – Porches
- – Gutters & Downspouts
Substantial Rehabilitation: Program provides housing rehabilitation services to low and moderate-income homeowners over 62 or disabled. Homeowners may receive up to $35,000 to repair major systems including plumbing, electrical, heating & air conditioning, etc. Funding is not intended for cosmetic repairs.
More info, contact and application.
Lead & Healthy Homes: Program’s goal is to identify and remove lead in homes built before 1978 with children under 6.
Buncombe County (1 program)
Emergency Repairs: Program preserve existing affordable housing while improving the quality of life for income-qualified Buncombe residents by making their homes safer and more accessible. Repairs may include, but are not limited to, the installation of accessibility features, repairing of roofs, and the repairing or replacement of HVAC systems.
City of Asheville (0 program)
The city does not offer a home repair or improvement program but the County does (see above).
Union County (1 program)
Septic System Repair: Program helps low and moderate-income homeowners rehabilitate their septic system.
Gaston County (1 program)
Housing Rehab: Program provides grants for the elderly, disabled, military veterans, and single-parent households for their home repairs and rehabilitation.
City of Gastonia (2 programs)
Homeowner Rehabilitation: Program helps low and moderate-income homeowners repair major operation systems, making the home safe and comfortable. Grant assistance is available up to a maximum of $25,000.00, which is secured by a ten-year lien.
Water and Sewer Connection Assistance: Program assists with the tap fees and the plumbing costs associated with connecting to the City water/sewer system.
Find both program details and contact info.
New Hanover County (0 program)
The county has no home repair or improvement program for homeowners but you can refer to the State, Federal and community organizations programs above..
City of Wilmington (3 programs)
Minor Housing Rehabilitation: Program offers a forgivable loan for minor repairs, such as a new roof, air conditioner repair, and paint. Maximum Loan Amount: $10,000. No payment is required but requires a promissory Note and Deed of Trust for a period of 3 years.
Major Housing Rehabilitation: Program offers a forgivable loan to make needed repairs to your home and improve the dwelling and/or remove health and safety hazards. Maximum Loan Amount is $90,000.
Fully Amortized Housing Rehabilitation: Program offers a loan up to a maximum of $100,000, including a 15% contingency for existing construction, and $150,000, including a 15% contingency maximum for demolition and reconstruction.
See details and contact info for all 3 programs.
Cabarrus County (4 programs)
Housing Rehabilitation: Program offers full housing rehabilitation to low-income homeowners, including:
- – Roof, floors, windows, and door replacements
- – Vinyl siding
- – Re-plumbing
- – Rewiring
- – Heating and air conditioning repair and/or replacement
- – Safety or handicap accessible improvements
Home Improvement: Program assists homeowners 60 and older to help them maintain independence and adequate shelter.
Usual work covers:
- – Build wheelchair ramps, step rails, and grab bars
- – Replace windows and doors
- – Repair/replace floors
- – Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
- – Other safety-related items
Weatherization: Program makes homes more energy efficient for low-income, elderly, and disabled persons by reducing energy costs.
Work covers:
- – Caulking
- – Weather stripping
- – Repair of windows and doors
- – Insulation of all types
- – Replacement of water heaters
- – Installation of vents
- – Installation of vapor barriers
- – Building of attic and crawl space doors
Heating, Appliance Repair & Replacement: Program applies to primary heating systems. The work can range from repairs and replacements to performing energy conservation measures.
City of Concord (2 programs)
SUBSTANTIAL REHABILITATION: Program addresses major housing code and structural problems paying for repair that brings maximum repair value of $257,000.
EMERGENCY REHABILITATION: Program provides urgent repairs and necessary to protect the health and safety of the occupants. Examples include, but are not limited to, the repair or replacement of HVAC, roofing, plumbing, or electrical systems. Maximum assistance through this program is $15,000.
Find both (2) programs details here.
City of Kannapolis (2 programs)
Urgent Home Repair: provide help to home conditions posing an imminent threat to the life and safety of very low-income homeowners.
Find eligibility and contact info.
Home Rehabilitation: Program helps low-income households that would be unable to make the necessary repairs without financial assistance. Typical work covers heating, wiring, plumbing, roofing, structural repairs, handicap accessibility, insulation, and energy efficiency improvements are among the types of repairs that can be made. Assistance is provided in the form of 0% interest forgivable loans.
Johnston County (0 program)
The county does not have a specific home repair or improvement programs but residents are eligible to the State House Finance Authority, plus the Federal and community organizations above on this page.
Onslow County (1 program)
Home Improvement: Program assists individuals and families in obtaining basic furnishings or appliances, small renovations, or repairs to dwellings to remedy conditions that pose a risk to the personal health and safety of individuals or families or to enhance mobility for functionally impaired individuals.
City of Jacksonville (1 program)
Residential Rehabilitation: Program rehabilitates houses before they fall beyond repair by providing low-interest loans or grants.
Typical works:
- – Leaky Roofs
- – Fallen Gutters
- – Rotting Siding
- – Porch Hazards
- – Window Insulation
- – Plumbing & Electrical
- – Structural Issues
Program details and contact info.
Iredell County (0 program)
The county does not have a specific home repair or improvement program, but residents are eligible for the State House Finance Authority mentioned above on this page as well as the Federal programs plus local community organizations help higher up on the page.
City of Mooresville (0 program)
The city does not have a specific home repair or improvement program, but residents are eligible for the State House Finance Authority, Community organizations and Federal program mentioned above on this page.
Pitt County (2 programs)
Housing Rehabilitation: Programs rebuild and repair homes for lower-income citizens. The type and amount of funding will depend on the repair needed on your home.
Program details and contact info.
Rebuilding Together (1 program)
Home repair: This organization provides free help with your home repair if you live in Pitt County and have a low income.
Find more info and application.
City of Greenville (1 program)
Home rehabilitation: Program provides assistance to low-income homeowners with one or more substandard conditions but must be suitable for rehabilitation.
Read more info and contact details.
Alamance County (0 program)
The county doesn’t have a specific home improvement program, but residents are eligible for the State House Finance Authority mentioned above on this page plus the Federal programs as well as local Community organization programs also listed above.
City of Burlington (1 program)
Home improvements: The city provides a home repair and improvement program through forgivable loans and grants (up to $10,000) for most structural, home systems, and important elements of your home.
More info, application, and contact.
Other NC counties programs
- 1- Smaller counties in North Carolina may have their own home repair and home improvement programs. You should contact your county Community Affairs office or its Housing Department to find out (see above).
- 2- As a NC resident, you are eligible for the State House Finance Authority program mentioned higher up on this page.
- 3- You may also be eligible for the Federal (HUD) Home Improvement program (see higher up).
- 4- As a last resort, you should contact your local church since they sometimes have a bit of funding available for emergencies and can also sometimes gather free hands to help with repairs.
Other NC counties:
- – Davidson County
- – Catawba County
- – Orange County
- – Rowan County
- – Randolph County
- – Brunswick County
- – Harnett County
- – Robeson County
- – Wayne County
- – Henderson County
- – Craven County
- – Cleveland County
- – Moore County
Confused about home improvement programs terms?
It can be confusing to understand the terms. Lots of different organizations have different words for the same type of help programs: home improvement grant, home repair grants, programs, free grants, relief service, repair assistance, etc. They are all synonyms of programs designed to help low and moderate income homeowners repair and fix important element of their house.