The Home Repair program’s loans can be used to fund household repairs such as fixing a leaky roof
or replacing a broken-down heating system. They can also be applied toward cosmetic or structural improvements, such as additions and kitchen and bath upgrades.

The Home Repair program’s grants, however, are intended to be used primarily to eliminate health and safety risks for older residents, such as winterizing a drafty house or repairing faulty electrical wiring. Grants can also be applied toward improving accessibility for residents with disabilities (e.g., installing a wheelchair ramp). Grants cannot be used to modernize or make cosmetic upgrades to a
home. Be sure to check with your area Rural Development field office for specific funding guidelines.