Did you know that over 1.5 million households in Illinois could be eligible for monetary assistance with roof repairs?
The Illinois Roof Replacement Grants program offers significant support for those facing challenges due to COVID-19. If you’re a homeowner in need, understanding the eligibility requirements and application process can help you secure these funds. What do you need to know to take the first step?

Key Takeaways
- Homeowners can apply for grants up to $60,000 for roof repairs due to financial hardship from COVID-19.
- Income eligibility is capped at 150% of the area median income based on household size.
- The program runs from January 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026, with a lottery application on October 7, 2026.
- Eligible repairs include roofing, drainage, electrical, and plumbing systems, ensuring home safety and livability.
- Applicants must be current on mortgage payments and property taxes, with the property as their primary residence.
Program Overview
The Illinois Roof Program provides essential financial assistance for homeowners facing roof repairs or replacements due to the economic impact of COVID-19, complementing broader forms of support such as shelter help and nutrition aid available to eligible households.
This initiative offers home repair grants of up to $60,000 for eligible homeowners demonstrating financial hardship after January 21, 2020. To qualify, applicants must have an income at or below 150% of the area median income.
The program runs from January 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026, with one application allowed per household.
Eligible repairs include roofing, drainage, electrical, and plumbing systems, helping ensure homes meet health, safety, and code standards while reducing financial strain alongside other assistance options like shelter help and nutrition aid.
Program Goals
Ensuring the safety and stability of homes is a primary goal of the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants program. This initiative directly addresses critical home repairs, focusing on roofing issues that compromise residents’ health and safety, including households led by singles and seniors.
By providing up to $60,000 in financial assistance per household, the program helps homeowners tackle urgent roofing needs, ensuring properties meet safety and code standards.
The program also supports homeowners financially impacted by COVID-19, helping singles and seniors remain in their homes and maintain long-term housing stability.
By investing in disadvantaged communities, the initiative improves overall housing quality and delivers meaningful support where it is needed most.
Project Timing
The Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program kicks off on January 1, 2024, giving you a chance to secure funding for essential roof repairs until September 30, 2026.
Keep in mind that the Roof Program lottery will take place on October 7, 2026, so make certain to submit your application before the deadline.
With various application options available, you’ll want to plan ahead to guarantee you meet all requirements and get your entry in on time.
Program Duration and Deadlines
While you prepare for your roof replacement, it’s essential to keep in mind the timeline of the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program (HAFHR). The program runs from January 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026, providing critical homeowner assistance. To secure funding, you must adhere to the application deadlines.
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Program Start | January 1, 2024 | Funding begins for repairs |
| Program End | September 30, 2026 | Last day for assistance |
| Application Lottery | October 7, 2026 | Online submission at 10:00 AM |
Stay informed to verify your eligibility!
Application Timeline Overview
As you navigate the application process for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, understanding the timeline is essential for securing assistance.
The program runs from January 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026, with the application lottery occurring online on October 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
As a homeowner, you’re allowed one entry per household. After the lottery drawing, city staff will reach out to you to inform you of your status—whether you’ve been selected or placed on the waitlist.
To ease the process, a helpful step-by-step training video is available to guide you through the online application.
Project Covers Home Repairs
When considering the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program, it’s important to understand which types of repairs qualify for funding, especially for families with limited income and people with permanent disabilities.
Eligible homeowners can receive up to $60,000 for critical repairs such as roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems, all aimed at keeping homes safe, functional, and code-compliant.
The application process is straightforward, making it easier for families with limited income and people with permanent disabilities to secure assistance and maintain their primary residence.
Eligible Repair Types
Homeowners in Illinois facing challenges due to COVID-19 may find relief through the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program (HAFHR), which covers essential repairs to secure safety and livability. This program addresses eligible critical home repairs that uphold health and safety, including:
| Repair Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Roofing | Replacement or repair of roofs | Prevent leaks and damage |
| Drainage | Fixing drainage systems | Avoid flooding issues |
| Electrical | Updating wiring and fixtures | Guarantee safe electricity |
| Plumbing | Repairing leaks and systems | Maintain water supply |
| Accessibility | Modifications for elderly or disabled | Improve mobility and safety |
Maximum Grant Amount
The Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund Home Repair Program (HAFHR) offers a maximum grant of $60,000 per household to support critical home repairs, including essential roof replacements.
This substantial funding can be utilized not only for roofing repairs but also for addressing other necessary improvements like drainage, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Designed to assist homeowners facing financial hardship, especially due to COVID-19, the maximum grant amount helps maintain safe and habitable living conditions.
Application Process Steps
To successfully navigate the application process for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, you’ll want to follow a few key steps.
First, check the income limits based on your household size, as they vary—maximums range from $54,700 for one person to $90,600 for six.
Next, submit your application online via the Roof Program Lottery Application or call (309) 494-8600. In-person applications are also accepted at City Hall in Peoria, IL.
Eligibility Parameters
While steering through the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, it’s essential to understand the eligibility parameters that determine your qualification. Here’s what you need to know:
- You must be a homeowner and occupy the property as your primary residence.
- Your household income should be capped at 150% of the area median income, varying by household size.
- Homeowners must have owned their property for at least one year before October 1, 2025.
- You must be current on mortgage payments and property taxes, with necessary repairs covered by a current homeowners’ insurance policy.
Eligible Households
To qualify for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, your household must meet specific income eligibility criteria, which caps at 150% of the area median income.
You also need to ascertain that you’ve owned and occupied your home as your primary residence for at least a year before the application deadline.
These requirements are designed to help low- to moderate-income families facing financial hardship, particularly those impacted by COVID-19.
Income Eligibility Criteria
When seeking roof replacement grants in Illinois, it’s essential to understand the income eligibility criteria for households.
To qualify as a low-income homeowner, your income must be at or below 150% of the area median income (AMI). Here are the limits based on household size:
- 1-person household: $54,700
- 2-person household: $62,500
- 3-person household: $70,300
- 4-person household: $78,100
Additionally, you must certify financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic after January 21, 2020.
Property Ownership Requirements
In order to qualify for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, eligible households must meet specific property ownership requirements.
You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence for at least one year before October 1, 2025. Unfortunately, properties held in trust or under reverse mortgages aren’t eligible for this program.
To qualify, you need to be current on your mortgage payments and property taxes, with no outstanding liens.
Additionally, your household income must be at or below 150% of the area median income, with a maximum cap of $78,100 for a four-person household.
Eligible Properties
Many homeowners may find themselves eligible for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants if they meet specific criteria.
To qualify, you’ll need to guarantee your property aligns with these guidelines:
- Owned and occupied as your primary residence.
- Not held in trust or as a reverse mortgage.
- Owned for at least one year before October 1, 2025.
- Current on mortgage payments, property taxes, and homeowners insurance without other liens.
If your household income is at or below 150% of the area median income, you could be part of the eligible households benefiting from this program.
Ineligible Properties
While you may be enthusiastic to take advantage of the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, certain properties won’t qualify for this valuable assistance.
Ineligible properties include homes with reverse mortgages and those held in trust, as they don’t meet the ownership criteria. Additionally, rental properties aren’t eligible, since the grant program is strictly for primary residences.
You also need to be current on your mortgage payments; any past-due amounts will disqualify you.
Program Requirements
To qualify for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants, you must meet specific requirements designed to assist those facing financial hardship. Here’s what you need to know:
- You must certify financial hardship due to COVID-19 after January 21, 2020.
- Your household income must be at or below 150% of the area median income based on household size.
- You must have owned and occupied your property as your primary residence for at least one year.
- A valid homeowners’ insurance policy is required, and you must be current on mortgage payments and property taxes.
This program aims to support low- and moderate-income families effectively.
Roof Program Household Income Limits
Understanding the income limits for the Roof Program in Illinois is essential for determining your eligibility. These limits guarantee that assistance is directed to households that need it most. Below is a summary of the income limits based on household size:
| Household Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $54,700 |
| 2 Persons | $62,500 |
| 3 Persons | $70,300 |
| 4 Persons | $78,100 |
| 5 Persons | $84,350 |
| 6 Persons | $90,600 |
Make certain your household income falls within these limits to qualify for grants under the roof program.
How to Apply
Wondering how to get started with your application for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants? Here’s a quick guide:
- Choose your method: Apply online via the Roof Program Lottery Application or call (309) 494-8600 for phone applications.
- Visit in-person: You can also submit your application at City Hall, Room 203, Peoria, IL.
- Watch the video: Check out the step-by-step training video for help with the online process.
- Mark your calendar: The lottery takes place on October 7th at 10:00 AM—keep an eye out for your notification!
Good luck, homeowners!
Roof Lottery Information
The Roof Lottery is an essential step for homeowners in Peoria looking to secure funding for roof replacements.
On October 7th at 10:00 AM, you can enter the Roof Program Lottery online, but remember, only one entry per household is allowed.
After the lottery drawing, city staff will reach out to inform you of your selection status. You’ll also find a list of selected applicants and a waitlist online.
For more details about the process, check the 2026 Roof Program FAQ provided by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.
Don’t miss this opportunity through the Home Repair Program!
Helpful Links
Finding helpful resources can make the roof replacement process smoother and more efficient. Here are some key links to guide you through the Illinois Home Repair Program:
- [Homeowner Assistance Fund Application] – Submit your application online or learn about phone submissions.
- [Roof Program Lottery Details] – Stay updated on the upcoming lottery scheduled for October 7, 2026.
- [Training Video] – Watch a step-by-step guide to navigate the online application.
- [Eligibility Criteria] – Check if you qualify based on income and COVID-19 financial hardship for the Assistance Fund Home Repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Eligible for a Government Home Improvement Grant in Illinois?
To be eligible for a government home improvement grant in Illinois, you must meet income requirements, own and occupy your home, and complete the application process. Funding sources vary, so check specific program details for assistance.
How to Get Your Roof Replaced for Free?
To get your roof replaced for free, start with a thorough roof inspection. Investigate financial assistance options, and choose durable roofing materials. You’ll find support available to cover essential repairs and improve your home’s safety.
What Grants Are Available in Illinois?
You can investigate various Illinois grant options for home improvement assistance, including roof funding resources. Programs like HAFHR and HRAP provide financial help for essential repairs, making it easier for you to maintain your home.
What Is the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund?
The Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund is like a lifebuoy for struggling homeowners. It provides essential financial assistance, ensuring housing stability and support for those facing hardships due to COVID-19, helping you keep your home safe and secure.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you’re facing roof issues and meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply for the Illinois Roof Replacement Grants. Remember, “a stitch in time saves nine”—addressing your roofing problems now can prevent bigger, more costly issues later. This program not only provides financial relief but also promotes safety and stability in your community. Take advantage of this opportunity and guarantee your home remains a secure haven for you and your family.