Are there government grants for a new roof?
Short answer. There is no general government grant that pays for anyone's new roof, but several programs help specific homeowners: USDA Section 504 home repair loans and grants for very-low-income owners in rural areas, city and county housing rehab programs funded with federal block grants, and FEMA assistance after declared disasters. Most require that you own and live in the home and meet income limits.
Programs worth checking
- USDA Section 504 Home Repair. Low-interest loans for very-low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas, and grants for those 62 and older, to fix health and safety hazards such as a leaking roof. Many small towns and rural areas in North Georgia qualify; check an address on USDA's eligibility map.
- Local housing rehabilitation. Many Georgia cities and counties use federal Community Development Block Grant or HOME funds for owner-occupied repair programs. Call your city or county housing or community development office and ask about owner-occupied rehab or emergency repair.
- Weatherization Assistance Program. Run in Georgia by the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority through local community action agencies. It focuses on energy efficiency, and roof work is generally limited to minor repairs that protect the efficiency measures.
- Disaster aid. After a federally declared disaster, FEMA may help with repairs needed to make a home safe and livable that insurance does not cover, and SBA disaster loans are open to homeowners.
How to improve your odds
- Apply early; funds are limited and often first come, first served.
- Have proof of ownership, income and homeowners insurance ready.
- Get a written roof assessment with photos, which many programs ask for.
Watch out
Ads promising a free government roof are usually lead generators or scams. Real programs do not charge application fees, and no legitimate roofer can cover your insurance deductible in Georgia. If storm damage is involved, check your homeowners policy first; see does homeowners insurance cover roof replacement. Also read how to choose a roofing contractor in Georgia.