Keeping your home safe and in good condition becomes more important as you age. However, the cost of home repairs can be overwhelming, especially for low-income homeowners on fixed incomes. If you are a senior citizen in California, there are programs that provide free home repairs to address safety hazards, energy efficiency, and essential repairs.
This guide will help you find federal, state, local, and nonprofit home repair programs designed specifically for senior citizens. You’ll also learn about online search tools, which can connect you with resources in your area.
Federal Home Repair Programs for Seniors in California
Section 504 Home Repair Program (USDA Rural Development)
If you live in an eligible rural area, the USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program offers grants and loans to help low-income homeowners make essential home improvements. This program is ideal for senior citizens who need to remove health and safety hazards or make accessibility improvements.
Eligibility requirements include:
Being at least 62 years old
Owning and living in a home in an eligible rural area
Meeting income limits set by the federal government
The program offers:
Grants up to $10,000 for essential repairs
Loans up to $40,000 with low interest rates and long monthly payment terms
To apply, contact your local USDA office or visit the USDA Rural Development website.
This guide will help you find federal, state, local, and nonprofit home repair programs designed specifically for senior citizens. You’ll also learn about online search tools, which can connect you with resources in your area.
HUD Home Improvement Programs
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides several programs to assist senior citizens with home improvement projects. These include:
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), which fund home repair programs at the local level
Property Improvement Loans, which offer low-interest loans for owner-occupied homes
Weatherization Assistance Programs, which help with adding insulation, repairing heating systems, and reducing energy costs
Check with your local housing authority to see what HUD-funded programs are available in your area.
State Home Repair Assistance Programs in California
California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Programs
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) offers grants and loans to help low-income homeowners make their homes safer. These programs cover:
Small repairs, such as electrical repairs, plumbing, and grab bars
Major home improvements, including roof replacement, structural issues, and accessibility upgrades
Energy-efficient upgrades to help lower utility bills
Eligibility is based on household income, household size, and property ownership.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
If you are struggling with high energy costs, LIHEAP can help you make energy-efficient improvements to your home. This program provides:
Free weatherization services like adding insulation and sealing air leaks
Assistance with heating and cooling system repairs
Discounts on monthly utility bills
You can apply through local LIHEAP agencies or by visiting the California Department of Community Services and Development website.
Local Home Repair Programs in California
Los Angeles County Home Repair Program
If you live in Los Angeles County, you may qualify for free or low-cost home repair assistance. This program focuses on health and safety hazards for senior citizens and low-income homeowners. Available repairs include:
Accessibility improvements, such as grab bars and wheelchair ramps
Electrical and plumbing repairs
Roofing and structural repairs
Contact the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACA) for details on eligibility and how to apply.
San Diego Housing Rehabilitation Program
This program helps low-income homeowners in San Diego with home improvements that make homes safer and more energy-efficient. Services include:
Essential repairs to prevent health and safety risks
Emergency repairs for plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
Grants for small repairs and low-interest loans for larger projects
Check with the City of San Diego’s housing department for application details.
Other City-Specific Home Repair Programs
Many cities in California have home repair programs for senior citizens. Programs vary by location, but they generally offer grant funds, low-interest loans, or repair assistance for essential home improvements.
San Francisco Housing Rehabilitation Program
Sacramento Emergency Repair Program
Oakland Housing Assistance Program
Visit your city’s housing department website to learn about eligibility and available funding.
Nonprofit and Community-Based Home Repair Assistance
Rebuilding Together
Rebuilding Together is a national nonprofit that provides free home repairs for senior citizens and low-income homeowners. Their services include:
Accessibility improvements like grab bars and wheelchair ramps
Essential repairs for plumbing, electrical, and roofing issues
Energy-efficient upgrades to lower utility bills
To find a local affiliate, visit the Rebuilding Together website.
Habitat for Humanity Critical Home Repair Program
Habitat for Humanity offers home improvement assistance to older adults who need to make their homes safer. This program provides:
Major repairs for roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems
Home modifications for better accessibility and mobility
No-cost or low-cost services based on income limits
Check with your local Habitat for Humanity chapter for application details.
Local Community Organizations
Many community organizations work with senior citizens to provide home repair programs. Some offer free home repairs, while others provide low-interest loans or grant funds.
Check with local senior centers, churches, and housing nonprofits in your area for assistance.
How to Find Home Repair Assistance Online
FindHelp.org
FindHelp.org is a great resource for finding home repair programs near you. Simply enter your ZIP code to search for:
Government-funded repair assistance programs
Nonprofit organizations offering free home repairs
Community groups providing home safety modifications
HUD’s Home Repair and Improvement Resources
HUD’s website offers a directory of home repair and improvement programs across the country. Search by state to find:
Grant programs for low-income homeowners
Loan programs with affordable monthly payments
Local housing agencies that provide repair assistance
State and County Housing Websites
Each county in California has housing programs that offer repair assistance. Visit your county’s housing website to check eligibility requirements and apply for help.
Making Your Home Safer with Repair Assistance
Maintaining a safe home is essential for senior citizens and many home repair programs exist to provide financial relief. Whether you need small repairs, major structural improvements, or energy-efficient upgrades, there are federal, state, local, and nonprofit options available.
By exploring these resources and applying for assistance, you can improve your home’s safety, accessibility, and comfort while reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Free Cell Phone Service for Qualifying Seniors
If you are receiving government assistance like LIHEAP, CalFresh, or Medicaid, you may also qualify for FREE monthly cell phone service through StandUp Wireless.
Our offer includes:
FREE Monthly Unlimited Talk & Text
6 GB of Data Every Month
A FREE Smartphone
Visit a StandUp Wireless store or tent location in California to enroll today.