Neighborhood Revitalization: Critical Home Repair Program

Keeping Lake and McHenry county residents safe in their homes

Neighborhood revitalization through our Critical Home Repair program is a holistic approach to improving the quality of life of members of our community. The ultimate outcome of Critical Home Repair is improved quality of life, which we define as the sense of well-being and happiness experienced by individuals, groups, and communities.

If you currently own your home and need repairs to keep your home safe, healthy, or accessible, our Critical Home Repair Program may be a fit for your needs. Examples of potential repair projects include repair of roof leaks, leaking pipes, stairs, furnaces, and air conditioning units; replacements of furnaces, air conditioners, or water heaters; or installation of accessibility ramps, grab bars, and handrails.

Funding for the Home Repair Program comes from county and state grants, organizational grants and funding for veterans and donations from community members and businesses. Funding programs may require a forgivable loan, an affordable repayment plan or sweat equity hours through volunteer work or advocacy.

Applications Currently Closed

Due to an overwhelming response and the program reaching full capacity, we are not accepting new applications at this time. Please check back for updates on when applications will reopen.  If you are experiencing a quality of life emergency, such as no hot water or no heat, please call our office at 815-759-9002 for further assistance.

We appreciate your understanding and continued support in helping us build stronger, more resilient communities.

We offer home repair services to homeowners so that you can continue to live safely in your home for years to come. You might be a candidate if you meet the following criteria:

• Own the home as your primary residence with no plan to sell within five years
• Property must be in our service area
• Be current on property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and any mortgages on the property
• Require repairs that fall within the guidelines of the program
• Have a household gross income under 80% of the McHenry County area median income (See income guide to the right.)
• Be willing to agree to the terms of the funding programs utilized for your project. *Many funding programs have a property value limit.
• Meet income eligibility requirements (household income should be at or below 80% of Area Median Income). Click here to see income limits.