If you’re a homeowner in Houston and struggling with things like a leaky roof, a busted heater, or unsafe wiring, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. The Houston Home Repair Program could be your lifeline. Funded by the city and federal partners, this program helps low-income homeowners make critical repairs that keep their homes safe, livable, and energy-efficient.
But it’s not just about patching up houses. It’s about keeping people in their homes, preserving neighborhoods, and protecting public health. In this guide, I’ll walk you through who qualifies, what’s covered, how to apply—and how to boost your chances of getting approved.
What Is the Houston Home Repair Program?
Why It Exists
Let’s face it—home repairs can be expensive. And for families living paycheck to paycheck, they’re often put off until it’s too late. That’s where the Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) steps in. Its goal? To help low- and moderate-income residents stay safe and secure in the homes they already own.
It’s about preventing families from being pushed out due to conditions they can’t afford to fix. It’s about helping seniors age in place with dignity. And it’s about strengthening the fabric of our communities one household at a time.
Types of Help Available
The program is actually a group of several targeted initiatives, each tackling different issues:
Minor Home Repair Assistance Program: Think small but vital fixes—plumbing, electrical issues, or things like grab bars and handrails for accessibility.
Roof Repair/Replacement Program: Especially helpful for folks whose roofs have taken a beating from Houston’s wild weather.
Disaster Recovery Programs (DR-17, DR-19, etc.): Designed to help homeowners bounce back after natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey. They don’t just rebuild—they upgrade.
Weatherization and Energy Efficiency Programs: These often partner with organizations like the U.S. Department of Energy to make your home more energy-efficient, which means lower utility bills and a more comfortable space year-round.
Do You Qualify?
The Basics
You’ll need to meet a few key criteria to qualify:
You must own and live in the home as your primary residence. Your household income must fall within certain limits based on Houston’s Area Median Income (AMI). And—this might sound obvious—but your home has to be within Houston’s city limits.
As an example, a family of four would typically need to earn less than 80% of the area’s AMI, which gets updated each year by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Who Gets Priority
While many may qualify, certain groups are often prioritized:
Seniors over 62, veterans, people with disabilities, and disaster survivors are more likely to be fast-tracked—especially when funding is limited. Why? Because they often face the steepest barriers to making repairs on their own.
How to Apply (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Steps to Take
Applying might seem intimidating, but it’s manageable when you break it down:
First, check your eligibility at the Houston HCD website. They’ve got a handy tool to help. Then, gather your documents—proof of income, ID, property deed, and any required insurance. Submit your application either online or in person. After that, a city inspector will come assess your home. If everything checks out, you’ll be notified about the repairs and timeline.
Avoid These Pitfalls
Here’s where things can get tripped up:
If your paperwork is missing or outdated, or if the title on your home isn’t clear (say it was inherited but never probated), your application might be delayed—or denied. And for homes in flood zones, not having the right insurance can be a dealbreaker.
Bottom line? Double-check everything before hitting submit.
What Repairs Are Covered?
Programs focus on the stuff that really matters for your health and safety—not curb appeal. That means repairs like:
• Roofing
• Electrical or plumbing systems
• Heating and cooling (HVAC)
• Foundations
• Accessibility upgrades like ramps or grab bars
Things they don’t cover?
Painting, landscaping, hot tubs—basically anything cosmetic or luxury-based.
Why This Matters (The Data Tells the Story)
| Insight | Source |
|---|---|
| Over $30 million spent on home repairs from 2020–2023 | Houston HCD Annual Report |
| Roughly 15% of low-income Houston homeowners live in unsafe housing | HUD Housing Conditions Study |
| Weatherization can cut utility bills by up to 20% | U.S. Department of Energy |
What the Experts Say
“Home repairs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re a public health and safety issue.”
— Tom McCasland, Former Director, Houston Housing Department
“These programs empower seniors to age in place with dignity and security.”
— Anna Rausch, Coalition for the Homeless Houston
Real People, Real Impact
Mrs. Johnson’s Story
Mrs. Johnson, 72, has called Houston’s Third Ward home for over 40 years. But after storms damaged her roof, she was on the verge of losing everything. Thanks to the Roof Repair Program and Rebuilding Together Houston, she not only got a new roof but also energy-efficiency upgrades. Today, she’s still in her home—warm, dry, and safe.
Hurricane Harvey Recovery
Thousands were displaced after Harvey. Through the DR-17 Disaster Recovery Program, many got not just repairs, but flood protections and energy-saving upgrades. These homes are now better prepared for whatever comes next.
FAQs
Q: What is the Houston Home Repair Program?
A: It’s a city-run program that offers free or low-cost essential home repairs for qualifying homeowners.
Q: How long does approval take?
A: Typically 2–6 months, depending on the program and demand.
Q: Can renters apply?
A: No. Only homeowners living in the home full-time can qualify.
Q: What if I’m in a flood zone?
A: You’ll likely need flood insurance and a mitigation plan—but yes, you can still apply.
Q: Will I have to pay anything?
A: Most help is grant-based. Some may be forgivable loans if you stay in your home for a set period.
Need Help With the Application?
This process isn’t something you have to face alone. You’ve got support. Reach out to:
• Houston Housing and Community Development Department
• Call the Home Repair Hotline: 832-394-6200
• Partner organizations like Rebuilding Together Houston and BakerRipley
These folks can help with paperwork, answer your questions, and even advocate for you if things get complicated.
Final Thoughts
Home should be your safe place—not a source of stress. The Houston Home Repair Program isn’t just about fixing homes—it’s about protecting families, building resilience, and honoring the people who’ve built their lives in our city.
If you think you might qualify, don’t wait. Your home deserves the care—and so do you.
Next Steps
1. Head to the Houston HCD website to check eligibility.
2. Gather your paperwork—ID, proof of income, property documents.
3. Contact a nonprofit like Rebuilding Together Houston or BakerRipley for support.
4. Submit your application.
5. Stay in touch and follow up—it makes a difference.
Lily Strauss is an environmental and energy expert based in Boulder, Colorado, with a background in Environmental Science from Stanford and Energy Policy at a London College. She began her career in environmental consulting before moving into energy policy, contributing to major sustainability initiatives with NGOs and the U.S. Department of Energy. Currently a senior advisor at a global climate think tank, she focuses on energy equity and climate resilience. Outside of work, Lily enjoys rock climbing, photography, and urban farming, and is passionate about climate justice and youth education in sustainability.