Upkeep and Repair

For more than two decades, H.O.M.E. has filled a much-needed service gap for low-income senior homeowners living in Chicago's south and west side neighborhoods

Established in 2001 the Upkeep & Repair program provides low-income senior homeowners living predominantly on Chicago's south and west sides with affordable electrical, plumbing, and carpentry repairs to ensure that their homes remain safe as they age, allowing older adults to continue living in their own homes and communities.

H.O.M.E. carries out over 9 repairs per home on average. Homes have aged along with the homeowners who have remained in place for decades, often their entire lives, necessitating a myriad of repairs. We have a policy to prioritize cases that impact health and safety. These tend to include electrical problems that pose a fire hazard or plumbing leaks that could lead to major home damage. Homeowners are only asked to cover a $25 service fee and supplies. In exchange, H.O.M.E. covers the entire cost of labor and tools.

H.O.M.E also provides free home repairs to seniors as a delegate agency in the Chicago Department of Planning and Development’s Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors program (SARFS).

 

Over the past several years, the number of H.O.M.E.’s emergency repairs has consistently made up over 50% of total repairs.

 

Upkeep and Repair — Interest Form

Are you or someone you know a senior who is interested in our Upkeep and Repair services?

Senior homeowners are eligible for our Home Upkeep and Repair program if they:

  • Are 62 years of age or older (55 or older if disabled)

  • Live south of North Avenue within the City of Chicago

  • Have no more than $1,200/month in income (income/mortgage ratio is taken into account.)

For our service the homeowner pays a $25.00 service fee and reimburses H.O.M.E. for job-specific materials, the cost of labor is free.