City of Columbia opens home weatherization grant program
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The City of Columbia is offering free weatherization services to eligible Columbia homeowners, on a first-come, first-served basis.
According to the US Department of Energy, installing energy-efficient light sources, air-sealing windows, and adding extra insulation to pipes and air ducts, weatherizations helps homeowners save an average of $372 on energy per year and 18% of annual heating costs.
The department adds that a weatherized home also helps save on the cost of water and lowers out-of-pocket health costs.
To be eligible for the grant, applicants must:
- Have a residential, owner-occupied home located in the City of Columbia.
- Have an annual household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Guideline or be located in a qualified census tract.
- Be the owner of record shown on land records on file at the Boone County Assessor’s Office.
- Have and maintain valid homeowner’s insurance on the property.
- Provide all requested documents to city staff.
For example, a family of four must have a monthly income limit of $7,500 and an annual income limit of $90,000 to be eligible for the weatherization program.
Homeowners must complete the application and participation agreement and submit the form by email or in person at Columbia's Neighborhood Services building.
If approved, the applicant's contact information will be sent to Nemow Insulation, who will inspect the home and provide a quote for the city. After the work is done, the city will conduct a follow-up assessment. Some homeowners may qualify for additional upgrades, like HVAC improvements, through a different contractor.
The weatherization program is being paid for by American Rescue Plan Act funds.
