Bill > H0439

This bill creates the Vermont Whole Home Repairs Program within the Department of Housing and Community Development to provide grants and forgivable loans for home repairs, energy efficiency improvements, and accessibility modifications. Homeowners and private landlords can receive up to $50,000 per residential unit to address "habitability concerns," which include ensuring a dwelling is fit for human habitation, free from health and safety hazards, and able to support energy or water efficiency upgrades. The program requires participating housing organizations to develop standard application processes, ensure equitable grant selection, provide technical assistance, and partner with workforce development programs. Eligibility for grants and loans depends on factors like household income, rental agreement terms, and property ownership history. Landlords must contribute matching funds of at least 20% and agree to specific tenant protection conditions, such as avoiding involuntary resident displacement and limiting rent increases. The bill appropriates $15 million from the General Fund for the program, with $5 million specifically designated for technical assistance and workforce development, and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.439