Lancaster, Ohio Homeowners Can Get Up to $15,000 for Home Repairs — Applications Open Now

If you own a home in Lancaster, Ohio, there is money available right now to help you pay for repairs. The city just opened the 2026 Homeowner Rehabilitation Assistance Program, and eligible homeowners can receive up to $15,000 to fix safety issues, health hazards, and code violations.

What Is This Program?

The program is funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), which is federal money the city uses to help residents with lower incomes keep their homes safe and livable. The assistance comes as a five-year forgivable loan — meaning you do not have to pay it back as long as you stay in your home for five years after the project is done.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, you must meet these basic requirements:

• You must own and live in your home as your main address
• Your total household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income — for example, a one-person household can earn up to $61,050, and a five-person household can earn up to $94,200
• You must be current on your property taxes (or have an approved payment plan)
• You must not have received city grant assistance in the past five years
• You must have current homeowners insurance and be in compliance with city income taxes
• The home must be a single-family home inside Lancaster city limits

What Repairs Are Covered?

The program covers a wide range of home repairs, including:

• Roof repair or replacement
• Gutters and downspouts
• Exterior repairs — porches, siding, doors, windows, and stairs
• Accessibility modifications for people with disabilities
• Radon mitigation
• HVAC systems and water heaters
• Electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems
• Energy efficiency upgrades like insulation and window replacements

Cosmetic repairs, garage work, and routine maintenance are not covered.

How to Apply

You can apply in two ways:

• Online: Visit the City of Lancaster Community Development webpage at lancasterohio.gov
• In person: Pick up a paper application at the Community Development Office, Lancaster City Hall

After you submit your application, the city will determine your eligibility within 14 days. Then an inspector will visit your home to decide what repairs are needed. Once approved, the city will find licensed contractors to bid on the work.

Bottom Line

If you live in Lancaster, Ohio and your home needs safety repairs but you cannot afford them, this program is worth applying for right away. Applications are processed in the order they are received, so do not wait.