Tennessee Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

How it works

Tennessee’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps make homes more energy efficient, especially for people with disabilities, older adults, and families with limited incomes. The program is offered through a network of local agencies, which handle applications and provide the weatherization services.

What the money covers

Weatherization is focused on energy efficiency, not general home repair or rehabilitation. Common measures described on the page include:

• Insulation for attics, walls, floors, and water heaters
• Air sealing to close gaps and holes
• Ventilation improvements
• Upgrades to heating and cooling systems

The page also gives examples of additional work that may be done when a home is eligible, including water heater tank and floor insulation, duct sealing, bath fan and dryer venting, a vapor barrier, HVAC system installation, pressure relief piping, and smoke and CO detectors.

Health, comfort, and safety benefits

The page says weatherization can reduce energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and help with problems such as radon gas, poor air quality, mold, and air leaks. It can also help homes stay at safer temperatures during very hot and cold weather and better withstand severe weather conditions.

How the process works

Applicants request and submit an application through their local agency by mail, email, in person, or sometimes online. Applications are typically 4–5 pages and can usually be completed on paper or electronically. The agency reviews the application and may request more information. When the applicant reaches the top of the list, an energy auditor visits the home to conduct an energy audit and determine what improvements could increase efficiency. Most weatherization work can be completed while the homeowner remains in the home.

Timing and deadlines

The page says the program must respond within 90 days about approval. Once approved, the household is placed on a waiting list.

Funding and program context

In Memphis, the average investment in improvements is about $16,000 per home. The page says the work is funded through Department of Energy grants and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It also notes that households may be eligible for multiple energy-efficiency programs at the same time, including TVA’s Home Uplift program and local utility company programs.