Home Repair Program

The City of Livonia Housing Commission, through the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, provides financial assistance to low—to moderate-income residents of the City.

FAQS

Is this a grant or a loan?
It depends on the cost of the project. If the total approved cost is less than $10,000, it is provided as a grant. If the cost is $10,000 or more, it is a 0% interest deferred loan. This means no monthly payments, and repayment is only required if the home is sold, transferred, or is no longer your primary residence.

How is the total amount determined?
The total amount is determined through the contractor bidding process, where the lowest qualified bid is selected.

What are the income guidelines?
The guidelines are determined yearly and can be found here. 

What types of repairs qualify?
All home repair improvements must remedy substandard conditions and/or eliminate a safety hazard. Please be advised that repairs are subject to our ability to retain qualified contractors.

Examples of eligible improvements:

Accessibility: Install grab bars/handrails
Correction of local housing code violations
Detectors (Smoke and Carbon Monoxide)
Drains: Identify and repair faulty drains
Electrical Wiring: Inspect and correct electrical hazards
Garbage disposals, hot water tanks, and toilets
Heating Systems: Install humidifiers, thermostats
Insulation
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction
Leaky or rusty pipes
Lighting: Installation of exterior lights for security purposes
Masonry
Minor chimney repairs
Radon testing and mitigation
Roof
Siding
Steps
Windows/Doors: Deadbolt locks, replacement of glass/screen doors, exterior doors

How is the work completed?

The Housing Rehabilitation Specialist will review and prioritize the needed repairs. Licensed and insured contractors will be contacted for quotes and the lowest responsible bid received will be awarded the contract. Please be advised that repairs are subject to our ability to retain qualified contractors.

Can repairs be completed on my condominium?

Improvements are limited to freestanding, single-family dwellings. Condominiums, duplexes, and townhomes' common areas are ineligible for repair. Repairs that are the legal responsibility of the owner-occupant may be completed. Rental units are ineligible for repair.

How much do I have to pay?

Repairs completed under the Home Repair Program are paid to the contractor directly with the CDBG funds. Grant recipients are notified of the total repair costs.

Loan recipients will also be notified of the total repair costs and given an intake before signing. The loan is a 0% interest deferred loan. This means no monthly payments, and repayment is only required if the home is sold, transferred, or is no longer your primary residence.

How often may I apply?

Qualified residents may receive a grant once every seven years or a loan once every ten years. Additionally, depending upon the condition of the property and the scope of the repairs required, the applicant may be determined ineligible for the grant. In these cases, a referral to the Major Home Rehabilitation Loan program may be made.

How may I submit paperwork?

Paperwork can be mailed to or dropped off at Silver Village—33780 Lyndon, either via Dropbox or emailed to cdbg@livonia.gov.

Once I’m determined eligible, what may I expect?

The process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the type of repairs and required approvals. While we understand that many repairs feel urgent, there are several steps we must complete before work can begin.

Part of the process includes contacting a licensed environmental firm to check for lead paint, asbestos, and radon. Federal regulations require this step to ensure that your home is a safer environment to live in. If any findings are made, mitigation will be required.

We also coordinate with the City’s Inspection  Department for evaluations in plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems.

We’ll keep you informed throughout the process, but please note that repairs can not begin immediately due to these necessary steps.