CHIP (Columbus Housing Improvement Program)

How it works

The Columbus Housing Improvement Program (CHIP) provides grant funding for eligible homeowners to pay for needed home repairs and improvements. The city says the program is handled by ARa, which manages the application process, scoring, construction job scoping, contractor procurement, final inspection, payment documentation, and lien placement.

What the money covers

The official page lists eligible activities as roof repairs or replacements, HVAC repairs or replacements, ADA modifications leading to the threshold of the home, and water heater replacement. Radon tests and mitigation are also included for selected homeowners.

Amounts and matching

The maximum investment per home is $20,000. The page does not describe a matching requirement.

How to apply

Applications are online only. The city says demand will likely exceed available funds, and awards will be made on a first-come, first-served basis until program funds are allocated.

Timing and deadlines

The page does not give a closing date for CHIP on the main program page itself. A related city page notes that CHIP 2.0 is open through December 15, 2026, but that date applies to the 2.0 expansion rather than the original CHIP page.

Homeowner note

This program is not wildfire-specific, but it can fund structural repairs that improve a home’s resilience more generally.