Florida Home Repair Assistance Programs
Florida homeowners can access repair assistance through SHIP-funded local programs, USDA rural repair loans, and hurricane recovery initiatives. Programs prioritize health and safety hazards, accessibility, and disaster-related damage.
SHIP Home Repair Program
SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) funds are distributed to all 67 Florida counties for owner-occupied rehabilitation.
What it provides: Grants and deferred-payment loans for critical home repairs
Assistance: Typically $15,000–$50,000 for roof, plumbing, electrical, and accessibility repairs.
Eligibility: Administered locally; income limits and maximum assistance vary by county.
Who may qualify:
- Owner-occupants in participating Florida counties
- Households at or below 120% of area median income
- Homes with health, safety, or accessibility deficiencies
Requirements:
- Application through local SHIP administrator
- Property inspection
- Licensed contractor estimates
How to apply: Contact your county's SHIP administrator listed on the Florida Housing website.
Official source: Florida SHIP
USDA Section 504 Home Repair (Florida)
Florida's rural Panhandle and central regions have extensive Section 504 activity, especially after hurricane damage.
What it provides: Grants and loans for rural home repairs
Assistance: Grants up to $10,000 for seniors; loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest.
Eligibility: Property must be in designated rural area; much of inland and North Florida qualifies.
Who may qualify:
- Homeowners in USDA-eligible rural Florida areas
- Seniors 62+ with income below 50% AMI for grants
- Owner-occupants unable to obtain affordable credit
Requirements:
- Income documentation
- Repair specifications
- Application through USDA Rural Development
How to apply: Apply at your local USDA Rural Development Florida office.
Official source: USDA Section 504
Rebuild Florida Housing Repair Program
Rebuild Florida has distributed hundreds of millions in housing repair funds following Hurricanes Ian, Michael, and Irma.
What it provides: State-funded repair assistance for disaster-impacted homeowners
Assistance: Repair grants covering unmet needs after insurance and FEMA assistance.
Eligibility: Activated following major disaster declarations; income limits apply.
Who may qualify:
- Homeowners in federally declared disaster areas in Florida
- Primary residence damaged by hurricane, flood, or other disaster
- Households meeting income requirements for the disaster program
Requirements:
- Proof of disaster damage
- Insurance settlement documentation
- Income verification
How to apply: Apply through FloridaCommerce when Rebuild Florida programs are activated post-disaster.
Official source: Rebuild Florida