Can’t afford critical home repairs in Tumwater? Habitat for Humanity wants to help
Eligible Tumwater homeowners can get affordable home repairs through a new program the South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity announced last week.
The Critical Home Repair program covers a range of repair services such as roofing, plumbing, electrical and accessibility modifications, according to a news release from the nonprofit.
Zac Marti, Critical Home Repair Manager, called the program an important step towards ensuring safe and affordable housing for all.
“We understand that homeownership is one of the most significant investments a family can make, and it’s crucial that we do everything we can to help families maintain and improve their homes,” Marti said.
South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1989 to serve Thurston County with the support of community partners, volunteers and donors.
However, the home repair program is limited to Tumwater residents for now because the grant funding available to subsidize the repair costs can only be used there, according to Amber Markland, marketing and development coordinator for the non-profit.
The program also intends to offer no interest, affordable payment plans.
To qualify for program, homeowners must meet seven eligibility requirements.
- Own and live in a home.
- Earn less than 80% of the area median income, although some grants have lower percentage requirements. For a family of four, 80% of area median income would be $80,720 a year, according to guidelines on the website.
- Need better housing because current conditions are negatively affecting health, safety or financial well-being.
- Be unable to afford and/or perform the repairs, but willing to pay for part of the repair costs.
- Have homeowners’ insurance and be current on all mortgage payments.
- Partner with Habitat for Humanity by providing required documents as well as being honest and cooperative. They must also complete at least eight hours of “sweat equity,” or volunteer time. This time can be completed by the applicant and/or a family member.
- Understand that the repairs will be conducted by Habitat for Humanity volunteers and staff as well as other community members or organizations. Larger or more complicated projects may require contracted skilled labor.
Those interested in applying can do so on the program website. After applying, staff will conduct a financial review, assess the home, create a contract, accept payment and start work.
The release says the non-profit also is looking for volunteers to work on repairs. More information on how to get involved can be found on the South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity website.
