How to apply for Detroit’s Critical Home Repair Program
Eligible Detroit homeowners can apply for free assistance with urgent plumbing, roofing, heating, electrical and accessibility repairs.
The City of Detroit’s Critical Home Repair Program will accept pre-applications beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The application period closes at 5 p.m. Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Complete the Detroit Home Repair Programs Pre-Application
Funding is limited. Homeowners with the most urgent repair needs will be prioritized, so residents are encouraged to apply during the open period.
What repairs may be covered?
The Critical Home Repair Program provides free repairs that address serious health, safety or accessibility concerns, including:
- Severe plumbing problems
- Actively leaking roofs
- A furnace or boiler that does not work
- Electrical hazards
- Accessibility-related repairs to bathrooms
- Accessibility-related repairs to home entrances and exits
The program may not be able to address every repair needed in a home. If a household is selected, available funding will be directed toward its most critical eligible repairs.
Who can apply?
To meet the program’s initial eligibility requirements, applicants must:
- Own and occupy a home in the City of Detroit
- Be current on their property taxes or enrolled in a property tax payment plan
- Meet the program’s household income limits
- Have at least one eligible household member living in the home, including:
- A child younger than 18
- An adult age 62 or older
- A resident with a documented disability who receives disability benefits
Meeting the initial requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will receive assistance. Applications will be reviewed and prioritized based on household eligibility, the severity of the home’s repair needs and available funding.
One application for two home repair programs
The City of Detroit Human, Homeless & Family Services department uses the online Neighborly system to accept applications.
During open application periods, residents can use one application to be considered for both the Critical Home Repair Program and HHFS’s LeadSafe Housing repair program. Home repair applications are expected to open twice each year.
Apply by September 22
The Fall 2026 pre-application period will be open:
Opening: 8 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Deadline: 5 p.m. Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Apply for Detroit home repair assistance
Residents can also learn more about the Critical Home Repair Program.
