Critical Home Repair Program: Home repairs at no cost to qualifying homeowners – Charlotte On The Cheap

If you’re a homeowner in Mecklenburg County with a low to moderate income, you might be eligible for the Critical Home Repair Program. This program provides urgent health and safety repairs at no cost. In return homeowners commit to staying in the home for five years, or selling to an income-qualified buyer.

The services are offered by local nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity Charlotte Region, Rebuilding Together Greater Charlotte, Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity and She Built this City.

Common repairs include:

• Roofing and structural stabilization
• Plumbing, electrical and HVAC upgrades
• Accessibility improvements such as ramps and grab bars

Eligibility Criteria

• Must own and occupy the home
• Income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (Please note that some of the participating agencies require a lower income.)
• Property taxes are current
• Have or willing to obtain homeowners insurance
• Funded as a forgivable loan – no repayment if homeowner stays in the home for at least 5 years after the repair(s)
• Some of the participating agencies have additional requirements. Some agencies mention that you must have lived in the home for 5 years, and you must not own any additional residential property. Make sure to read the eligibility requirements for the agency you’re applying to, or contact them with questions.