Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program

The Marshall County Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program is a locally administered grant initiative designed to assist eligible homeowners in improving the safety, accessibility, and functionality of their primary residences. The program is supported through collaboration with the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs and local county leadership, including the Marshall County Commissioners, Council, and Housing Committee. It is structured to address critical housing repair needs for low- to moderate-income residents within Marshall County, Indiana, ensuring that homes remain safe, habitable, and compliant with basic standards. The primary purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance for necessary home improvements that directly impact health, safety, and accessibility. Eligible improvements include roof repair or replacement, heating and cooling system upgrades, electrical and lighting improvements, water heater replacement, and accessibility modifications such as exterior ADA upgrades. These improvements are targeted toward maintaining structural integrity and ensuring that residents can safely remain in their homes. The program emphasizes essential repairs rather than cosmetic upgrades, aligning with federal housing quality and safety priorities. Funding for the program is provided as a grant with a maximum award amount of 25,000 dollars per household. While specific minimum award amounts are not stated, the funding is intended to cover significant rehabilitation needs. There is no indication of a matching requirement, suggesting that eligible homeowners can receive assistance without contributing a financial match. The funding is tied to compliance requirements, including maintaining homeowner’s insurance, keeping property taxes current, and allowing inspections throughout the project period. Additionally, participation requires adherence to federal guidelines such as lead-safe housing requirements and potential radon testing and mitigation. Eligibility for the program is limited to homeowners who reside in Marshall County and occupy the home as their primary residence. Applicants must meet income requirements defined as household income not exceeding 80 percent of the area median income, with specific thresholds based on household size. The program is designed for individuals rather than organizations, and applicants must demonstrate ownership of the property and provide documentation such as deeds, mortgage verification, proof of income, and insurance records. These requirements ensure that assistance is directed toward those most in need and that applicants have the legal and financial standing to participate. The application process requires submission of a comprehensive homeowner application packet, which includes multiple verification forms and supporting documentation. Applicants must provide proof of income, employment verification, mortgage or property ownership documentation, insurance coverage, and tax payment records. Additional forms include income verification, asset disclosure, and attestations regarding the accuracy of information and compliance with program requirements. Applications can be submitted through various local offices, including township trustees and municipal offices, with assistance available to help applicants complete the process. The application window for the current cycle opens on April 15, 2026, and has been extended through June 15, 2026. All applications must be received by the deadline to be considered. The program does not indicate a recurring annual cycle explicitly, and funding appears to be tied to a specific allocation period. Applicants are encouraged to contact local officials or the program administrator for guidance and to confirm submission procedures. Key contacts include the Marshall County Auditor and designated township trustees, as well as the project administrator from Baker Tilly, who can provide additional information and support. Overall, the program represents a targeted effort to improve housing conditions for low- and moderate-income homeowners in Marshall County. By focusing on essential repairs and accessibility improvements, it aims to preserve housing stock, enhance quality of life, and ensure compliance with safety standards. The structured application process and detailed documentation requirements reflect the program’s emphasis on accountability and equitable distribution of resources.

Ensure all documentation is complete and accurate include all required verification forms and contact local offices for assistance before submission