Texas Home Repair Assistance Programs
Texas homeowners may access repair help through TDHCA-funded local programs, USDA rural repair grants and loans, and city/county Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) rehabilitation funds. Programs target health and safety hazards — not cosmetic remodeling.
USDA Section 504 Home Repair — Texas
Texas has extensive rural areas served by USDA. Grants do not require repayment for eligible seniors; loans carry below-market rates.
What it provides: Grants up to $10,000 (elderly very-low-income) or loans up to $40,000 for health/safety repairs in USDA-eligible rural areas.
Assistance: Grant/loan for roof, plumbing, electrical, accessibility, and structural safety repairs.
Eligibility: Age 62+ for grant portion; all ages may qualify for loans. Property must be in rural area per USDA eligibility map.
Who may qualify:
- Own and occupy home in USDA-eligible rural Texas address
- Unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere
- Household income at or below very-low-income limit for county
Requirements:
- Proof of ownership
- Income documentation
- Repair estimates meeting program scope
How to apply: Contact your local USDA Rural Development office in Texas. Prepare income verification, property deed, and contractor bids.
Official source: USDA Rural Development — Section 504
TDHCA HOME and CDBG-Funded Local Repair
Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and many smaller Texas communities operate repair programs when funding is available. Waiting lists are common.
What it provides: Rehabilitation assistance distributed through Texas cities and nonprofits using federal HOME and CDBG funds.
Assistance: Grants, deferred loans, or forgivable loans for essential repairs.
Eligibility: Income limits typically 80% of area median income or below; priorities vary by locality.
Who may qualify:
- Low- and moderate-income owner-occupants (local limits apply)
- Homes with code violations or health/safety issues
- Residency within participating city or county jurisdiction
Requirements:
- Application through local housing department
- Home inspection
- Lead-safe work rules for pre-1978 homes
How to apply: Search your city or county housing department website for "home repair" or "owner-occupied rehabilitation." TDHCA lists housing counseling agencies statewide.
Official source: TDHCA — Homeowner Assistance
VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) — Texas Veterans
Works alongside Texas Veterans Commission housing programs. Veterans with non-disability repair needs should also check TDHCA and USDA options.
What it provides: Federal grants for veterans with certain service-connected disabilities to build or modify an accessible home.
Assistance: Grants for ramps, widened doorways, accessible bathrooms, and other adaptations.
Eligibility: Disability rating and grant type (SAH, SHA, or TRA) determine maximum benefit.
Who may qualify:
- Veterans with qualifying service-connected disability
- Own or will own the home
- Texas residency not required but home must meet VA specs
Requirements:
- VA disability documentation
- Contractor bids per VA guidelines
- Certificate of Eligibility
How to apply: Apply through VA.gov or a Texas Veterans Commission accredited counselor. Allow time for bid approval.
Official source: VA.gov — Disability Housing Grants