If your roof leaks or you need other serious home repairs, don’t panic – programs are available to help Michigan homeowners.
Free home repair grants, interest-free loans, and other repair assistance programs can provide the financial support you need to keep your home safe. These programs are designed to help low-income homeowners cover emergency repairs, including roof replacements, structural issues, or improvements like energy efficiency upgrades. Here’s how you can apply for help today.
Apply for USDA Low-Interest Loans or Grants
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers programs to help rural homeowners make critical repairs. Through the USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program, eligible homeowners can receive interest-free loans and grants to cover essential home improvement needs like roofing, foundation repairs, and barrier-free access modifications like grab bars.
Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you can obtain a maximum loan of $40,000 at a 1% interest rate (below standard market rates for home improvement loans).
What to do when visiting the USDA website
When visiting the USDA Home Repair Program Application page, take the following steps:
Look for the Section 504 Loan and Grant Program and check if your household income falls below the maximum limit for your area. Find details on eligible repairs, such as roof replacements, weatherization improvements, or health and safety hazard fixes. Then, download the application form and review the required documents, such as income verification and proof of ownership.
What to say if you call the USDA
When you call, introduce yourself and explain your situation clearly. Here’s a sample script:
“Hi, I’m a homeowner in Detroit, seeking information about the Section 504 Home Repair Program. My roof needs major repairs, and I want to determine if I qualify for a grant or low-interest loan. Could you please tell me what documents I need and the next steps?” A simple greeting like “Hi, how’s your day going?” and “Please” can go a long way. 🙂
Be ready to provide basic information like your household income, the repairs you need, and whether your home is located in a rural area. Prepare this info before calling.
Contact MSHDA and Detroit Housing Programs
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) provides affordable credit options and repair assistance programs throughout the state. MSHDA helps Michigan homeowners obtain loans and grants for eligible improvements such as roof repairs, wall insulation, and other energy-saving upgrades that reduce ongoing costs.
In Detroit, the local government offers additional home repair grants and programs to assist Detroit homeowners, particularly those struggling with high property taxes, aging infrastructure, or lead-based paint hazards. These programs often provide repair grants or interest-free loans to help low-income homeowners maintain owner-occupied homes.
What to do on MSHDA and Detroit Housing websites
On MSHDA’s website, look for information regarding visits.
Home improvement programs that cover essential repairs.
Eligibility criteria based on your household income and property location.
Approved partner organizations offering local roof repair services, energy efficiency upgrades, and lead-based paint removal.
For Detroit-specific programs, check the Detroit Housing Department for:
- The Housing Rehabilitation Program and other assistance for safety hazards.
- Application instructions for home improvement programs targeting Detroit neighborhoods.
- Deadlines for funding.
What to say if you call MSHDA or Detroit Housing
Here’s a sample phone script to help guide your conversation:
“Hello, I’m a homeowner in Detroit and need help with emergency roof repairs. I heard grants or interest-free loans may be available through your home repair assistance programs. Please tell me how to apply, what documents I need, and who I should contact next?”
Also, ask if they have specific recommendations for contractors and request any printable application forms or brochures they can email to you.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps low-income homeowners lower their energy costs by improving home energy efficiency. While not strictly a home repair program, WAP can address issues likeroof and wall insulation, weatherproofing, and furnace efficiency, which can help reduce air leakage and lower ongoing costs.
Homeowners who earn less than 200% of the federal poverty level may qualify. The program prioritizes elderly residents, people with disabilities, and families with children.
To apply, visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services WAP page. You’ll need to provide income documentation and details about your home to your local Community Action Agency (CAA).
When calling your CAA, explain that you’re interested in weatherization services and ask for help with the application process.
Check Nonprofit Programs
Nonprofits likeHabitat for Humanityand Rebuilding Together offer to replace your roof, provide wall insulation, install water heaters, or upgrade your windows to reduce energy loss. They also provide free repair programs for low-income and senior homeowners. These programs often target critical repairs to improve property values, ensure safety, and enhance energy efficiency.
Nonprofit programs prioritize limited-income applicants who live in eligible areas, such as Washtenaw County, Novi Township, Southfield Township, and smaller communities like Lake Angelus and Bingham Farms.
What to do on nonprofit websites
We repeat: Nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan offer free repair programs for low-income and senior homeowners. These programs often focus on critical repairs that improve property values, ensure safety, and enhance energy efficiency. For example, they may replace your roof, provide wall insulation, install hot water heaters, or upgrade your windows to reduce energy loss.
When visiting Habitat for Humanity’s local directory, search for the chapter closest to your area. Look for programs specifically related to home repairs or weatherization assistance. Also, eligibility requirements and volunteer initiatives that provide repair grants should be checked.
When you visit Rebuilding Together’s website, look for your local affiliate and check if they offer repair assistance programs. Then, learn how to submit an application or request a home assessment.
What to say if you call a nonprofit
📞 Call your local Habitat or Rebuilding Together office.
Sample script:
“Hi, I’m calling to see if you have any programs to help with roof repairs. I’m a homeowner in Detroit, and I’m concerned about safety hazards like leaks. Could you please tell me how to apply for repair assistance and if there are any upcoming projects I might qualify for?”
Ask for details about eligibility, household income limits, and how long the application process usually takes.
Get an Estimate from a Roofer
Most grant and home improvement programs require you to submit a detailed estimate from a licensed contractor. At Roofing Above All, we understand how critical roof repairs are to the safety and health of your home. We provide inspections and itemized quotes to support your grant application, interest-free loans, or other repair programs.
Whether your roof needs immediate emergency repairs or long-term energy efficiency upgrades, we’ll guide you through the process so you can focus on receiving assistance. Our team can also help you access programs for other eligible repairs, such as window replacement, basement waterproofing, or weatherization services.
👉 Contact Roofing Above All for a roof inspection: Schedule here
Key Contacts
- USDA Rural Development – Michigan: https://www.rd.usda.gov/mi
- MSHDA: https://www.michigan.gov/mshda/
- Michigan Community Action Agency Association: https://www.michigancommunityaction.org/
- Rebuilding Together: https://rebuildingtogether.org/
- Habitat for Humanity: https://www.habitat.org/
- Call 2-1-1: A free hotline providing information on local community resources throughout Michigan.
Don’t wait to fix serious safety hazards in your home. Start applying for free home repair grants, interest-free loans, and other home improvement programs today. These programs can reduce your total housing costs, improve your property’s condition, and make your home safer and more energy-efficient for years to come.
Roofing Above All’s Roof Giveaway
If you’re in the Detroit area, you can also enter Roofing Above All’s Roof Giveaway for a chance to win a free roof replacement. We proudly give back to our community by helping families obtain the necessary repairs to stay safe and dry.
👉 Learn more about the Roof Giveaway Roof Giveaway Program and apply here:
Let’s protect your home and improve your quality of life. Contact Roofing Above All today for more help and information!