Home Repair Assistance

When homeowners do not have the knowledge, skill, or funds to make household repairs, the quality and safety of the housing declines and the costs of living in the house go up. For example, if a house is poorly insulated, has a leaky roof, or drafty windows, the homeowner must pay more to heat the house. Communities can establish revolving loan repair funds to help homeowners to make the necessary repairs to their home.

Two local examples of such programs are: 1) Better Housing for Tompkins County's small revolving loan fund, which helps clients finance purchases of materials and offers (to seniors or those under 60 and disabled) free or minimal cost skilled labor to make the repair; and 2) Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services' low-interest loan program, which provides up to $50,000 to make repairs and renovations.