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Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) assists families and individuals by reducing their heating/cooling costs and improving the safety of their homes through energy efficiency measures. Energy efficiency measures performed through the program include air sealing (weather stripping, caulking), wall and ceiling insulation, heating system improvements or replacement, efficiency improvements in lighting, hot water tank and pipe insulation, and refrigerator replacements with highly efficient Energy Star rated units. Both single-family and multi-family buildings are assisted. Household energy use reductions and resultant energy cost savings are significant, with an average savings in excess of 20%.
Eligibility:
Program services are available to both income-eligible homeowners and renters, with priority given to senior citizens, families with children and persons with disabilities.
Households with incomes at or below 60% of state median income are eligible for assistance. See chart below for the 2011-2012 Income Eligibility Guidelines.
If a household contains a member who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Public Assistance, Food Stamps, or Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits, the household is considered automatically eligible for weatherization services.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Must Not Exceed | Annual Income Must Not Exceed |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,146 | $25,752 |
| 2 | $2,806 | $33,672 |
| 3 | $3,466 | $41,592 |
| 4 | $4,127 | $49,524 |
| 5 | $4,787 | $57,444 |
| 6 | $5,447 | $65,364 |
| 7 | $5,571 | $66,852 |
| 8 | $5,695 | $68,340 |
| 9 | $5,818 | $69,816 |
| 10 | $5,942 | $71,304 |
| 11 | $6,136 | $73,632 |
| Households larger than 11 people | Add $478 for each additional household member | |
These guidelines are based on 60% of state median income and family size. (Guidelines as of October 1, 2011)
Benefits:
The maximum amount of assistance is limited to $4,500 per unit.
Services might include but are not limited to:
- Air sealing of cracks and holes to reduce heat loss;
- Insulation of attics and walls;
- Heating system repairs or replacement;
- Providing efficient lighting and refrigeration;
- Window and/or outside door repair or replacement; and;
- Minor repairs which are needed to ensure maximum efficiency of the weatherization services performed.
DHCR requires providers to purchase and use materials that meet state and federal government standards. DHCR offers providers training in quality control and material use.
All services are provided without charge or obligation to the occupant of the home. However, owners of rental buildings are required to invest funds toward the cost of the Weatherization services.
How to Apply:
- An application is submitted to the local service provider to determine program eligibility;
- An energy audit of the home is conducted to identify needs;
- The home is weatherized; and
- Home is inspected to assure quality of work completed.
Program services are delivered through the NYS Homes Housing and Community Renewal’s (HCR) statewide network of local service providers who may use their own licensed crews or hire local private contractors to perform the work.
To apply, contact your local service provider.