Berwick Borough is applying to the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for a $300,000 housing rehabilitation grant and interested residents who live within the borough limits should apply now to get on the waiting list for the no-cost repairs.
Qualified residents may receive up to $65,000 each for home repairs. The borough will provide up to $50,000, as a no-interest loan, which will be forgiven if the property is not sold or transferred for at least five years after the rehabilitation is complete. The borough will also provide an additional $15,000 in funding that will be used to do rehabilitation work related to lead-based paint abatement or mitigation, as required.
The borough has partnered with SEDA-Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) to administer the grant. Interested residents may call SEDA-COG to speak with Audrey Frederick at 570-524-4491 Ext. 7215.
Eligible repairs include structural, roofing, plumbing, electrical, heating/furnace, window replacement, radon and lead-based paint mitigation, and energy-related improvements.
Modifications for mobility-impaired residents are also eligible within this program. Homeowners must maintain home residency over a five-year period from the date of signing for this service to be received at no cost.
“SEDA-COG manages the entire process for the homeowner,” said Joel Ruch, Housing Rehabilitation Manager of the agency’s Community Services Division. Ruch continued, “Not only does the homeowner get necessary home repairs, but they also get the benefit of going through the process hassle-free as we manage the logistics from start to finish.”
Qualifications:
- • Must live in the borough limits of Berwick;
- • Own the home or have Life Rights to live in it;
- • Meet income qualifications based on household size;
- • Be current on all local taxes and municipal utility bills;
• Provide proof of homeowner’s insurance;
- • If located in a flood zone, must provide proof of flood insurance;
- • Live in the home an additional five years.
Additional requirements may apply.
Annual Gross Income Limits:
Family size: 1 – $43,900; 2 – $50,150; 3 – $56,400; 4 – $62,650; 5 – $67,700; 6 – $72,700; 7 – $77,700; 8 – $82,700.
