The City of Lowell through the Division of Planning and Development is offering it's residents zero interest deferred loans for home repair projects. The purpose of these loans is to improve living conditions for low and moderate income homeowners in Lowell. This program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, will also provide technical assistance to eligible homeowners who ordinarily would not be able to make needed repairs to their homes. **Frequntly Asked Questions:** **Q:** Who can apply? **A:** Any resident of the City of Lowell who owns property in the city and meets general income guidelines. **Q:** Who sets the general guidelines for eligibility? **A:** The federal agency known as The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) establishes the general guidelines and maximum income limits for eligibility. **Q:** How does HUD determine the Maximum Income Guidelines? **A:** HUD has established a formula for determining an applicant's eligibility. This formula takes into account the total number of individuals living on the property and all those on the deed. The yearly income for everyone over eighteen (who are NOT full-time students) is then totaled. This total must fall below the maximum income limits set by HUD as shown in the table below. **Q:** What counts as income? **A:** This includes but is not limited to full and part time employment income, Social Security, Retirement & S.S.I Benefits, Child Support, income from rented property, etc. **Q:** What kind of home repairs are eligible through the program? **A:** HUD requires us to first address health and safety code issues such as heating, plumbing, electrical, structural, leaking roofs, boilers and/or furnace replacement, and other areas that have a direct impact on the safety and health of the occupants. **Q:** What kind of home repairs are NOT eligible through the program? **A:** Cosmetic and luxury items are not eligible. The program will not address issues of any buildings or structures other than the main residence. An accessory building will not be eligible for repairs unless it is attached to and threatening the structural integrity of the main residence. **Q:** Does the program address energy issues? **A:** Yes but in a limited capacity. **Q:** What guidelines does the Housing office use for the type of repairs and replacements made? **A:** The State Sanitary / Building Code, and HUD's Minimum Housing Quality Standards.

Please contact us if you are interested in applying for assistance, or would like additional information.

Primary Contact:
Philip Ferreira, Housing Program Manager
Division of Planning and Development
Phone: (978) 446-7200