City of Cambridge Home Improvement Program (HIP)

How it works

The City of Cambridge’s Home Improvement Program (HIP) provides low-interest and deferred-payment home improvement loans, plus technical help choosing and working with contractors. The city says the assistance is funded through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) money and is delivered through two local nonprofit housing agencies.

What the money covers

The official page says HIP loans can be used for:

• Correction of health and safety code violations
• Elimination of lead paint hazards
• Installation of energy conservation measures, such as new windows and insulation
• Roof replacement and other exterior repairs
• Other needed repairs to kitchens, baths, heating systems, and similar items

Amounts and matching

The page does not give one universal loan cap. It says the program is available to income-eligible owners and lists example scopes, but does not state a single maximum amount for all projects.

How to apply

Homeowners can contact the city by email or phone to begin the HIP loan process. The city directs applicants to the program page and notes that assistance is available through Homeowner’s Rehab, Inc. and Just-A-Start Corporation.

Timing and deadlines

The page does not state an application deadline or whether funds are currently limited, but it presents HIP as an active city program.