Housing Programs

The Jefferson County Department of Development has administered various housing programs for approximately 34 years. The Programs were established to assist low and moderate-income homeowners make needed repairs to their dwellings.

The Jefferson County Department of Development has been able to maintain the funding for this program by applying to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for competitive grant funds through the Federal HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program, the State’s Housing and Community Development Program and other funding sources.

JEFFERSON COUNTY HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM (JCHRP)

The Jefferson County Department of Development administers the Jefferson County Housing Rehabilitation Program (JCHRP).  The Program was established to assist low and moderate-income homeowners make needed repairs to their homes.

The Jefferson County Department of Development has been able to maintain the funding for this program by applying to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) for competitive grant funds through the Federal HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program and the State’s Housing and Community Development Program.

The Program addresses code deficiencies as well as health and safety concerns.  Each home must be brought up to minimum code standards. The State Uniform Construction Code, National Property Maintenance Code, National Electrical Code, and Local Code shall be adhered to. The most common types of repairs are electrical system upgrading and repairs, plumbing and heating repairs or replacement, repairing broken windows and doors, structural defects, roof repair or replacement, gutters and downspouts, porches, steps and handrails. If funds permit items such as siding and replacement windows may be included.  Not permitted are cosmetic items, or room additions.

Who is eligible?

Homeowners who permanently occupy their residences within Jefferson County, Pennsylvania and meet income requirements.

This program is not limited to senior citizens or those with disabilities; any homeowner who is income eligible may apply.

The MAXIMUM income limit permitted for participation in the rehabilitation program is 80% of the median income for Jefferson County. Contact the Department of Development for current income limits.

How do I apply for the Program?

The Department of Development maintains a “Waiting List” of qualified applicants for the Program. Anyone wishing to apply for the Jefferson County Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation Program or would like to receive additional information about the program should contact the Jefferson County Department of Development at (814) 849-3047.

Terms and Conditions:

Homeowners are required to continue to own and occupy their home for a period of five years after the work is completed, promptly pay all property taxes when due, maintain fire and casualty insurance on the property in an amount equal to or greater than the loan amount, and maintain the home in good repair.  For those properties located in the 100-year floodplain, the borrower must also agree to maintain flood insurance on the property.

For households whose total annual household income is less than or equal to 80% of the median income an interest free deferred forgivable loan (no payments) is available.  This loan is forgiven over a 5-year period (1/60^th per month).