Marquette County Emergency Repair Housing Program

How it works

Marquette County’s Housing Rehabilitation Program is administered by the Marquette County Planning Division to help homeowners keep their homes safe, habitable, and livable. The program uses county program income and follows county policies and applicable HUD and MEDC requirements. (cms4files.revize.com)

What the money covers

The program is for emergency repairs and is not meant for general home improvements. The guidelines say it can cover repairs that correct barriers to mobility and address health and safety hazards. Examples listed by the county include roofs, electrical, plumbing, furnaces/boilers, water heaters, wells and septic system repairs or replacements, ramps and accessibility improvements, and other emergency repairs judged to be a health or safety hazard on a case-by-case basis. The county also says some items are not eligible, including additions that increase square footage, swimming pools, window air conditioners, clothes washers, dryers, and appliances. (cms4files.revize.com)

Amounts and repayment

The maximum assistance is $25,000 per household unless the county approves a higher amount case by case. Assistance is limited to the amount needed to address the identified emergency and depends on available funds. The improvement costs become a no-interest deferred lien on the home; no payments are made and no interest accrues, but the full amount is repaid to Marquette County when the home is sold or ownership transfers. (cms4files.revize.com)

How to apply

Homeowners must first submit a Pre-Qualification Form. If pre-qualified, the county evaluates project feasibility and may do an initial walkthrough. If feasible, the homeowner completes a full application. Applications are reviewed first come, first served and placed on a waiting list. The county then completes inspections, drafts specifications, collects bids, and pays contractors as work progresses. (cms4files.revize.com)

Timing and deadlines

The guidelines do not give a closing date. They do say that prior recipients may reapply if an emergency situation exists, but assistance is generally limited to one-time help during any five-year period unless the county approves otherwise. (cms4files.revize.com)