Our homeowner programs are changing—here's what you need to know

In an effort to mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak, Center staff are working remotely until further notice and our physical office is closed. Additionally, the Center is following guidance from officials and adjusting our retrofit and repair programs and putting construction activities on pause. If you’ve applied to one of our programs or are planning to apply, please read on for some important updates.

HomeFix

HomeFix is the newest program at the Center and provides low- to no-interest loans, which may be forgivable, for repairs in qualified 1-4 family homes. The program, backed by the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), aims to address the growing need for financing deferred maintenance and mitigation of in-home health and safety  issues. Our program partners at Restored Homes HDFC, Asian Americans for Equality CDF, Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City, and the Parodneck Foundation can also answer questions and assist with applications.

• HomeFix is accepting applications. However, in accordance with State and City guidance on social distancing, we are not scheduling property visits. The Center encourages interested homeowners to apply as soon as possible since this program is on a first-come, first-serve basis. All documents should be sent electronically to your HomeFix point of contact. If you have any questions, please call 646-513-3470.

The Community Energy Engagement Program (CEEP)

CEEP is an outreach and educational initiative created to help New Yorkers make their homes and businesses more energy-efficient, affordable, healthy, and comfortable. CEEP is funded by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). The Center has a team of Community Energy Advisors (CEAs) who guide applicants through local, city, utility, state, and federal grant and financing programs that can lower or even eliminate the costs of projects.

• CEEP is currently taking referrals and offering guidance for households interested in energy efficiency projects. Most residential construction contractors are accepting new referrals and projects at this time. However, because of the highly communicable nature of COVID-19, contractors are not performing in-home audits or non-emergency construction. Under direction from City and State officials, CEAs are not participating in in-person events until bans on large gatherings are lifted. We are available to discuss the possibility of online learning sessions for community groups.

Please call 646-786-0888 or email energy@cnycn.org for more information.

Residential Backwater Valve Installation Program (RBVIP)

The Center offers free installations of backwater valves in select flood-prone neighborhoods. These valves can prevent costly damage from sewage backup during storms. Funded by the Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery, the program also provides free audits and counseling to help New Yorkers make their homes more resilient to flooding.

• RBVIP is accepting and processing applications. However, in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, our team of engineers, surveyors, and plumbers will not be doing resiliency audits or backwater valve installations until further notice. Visit FloodHelpNY.org/homeowners to sign up for our newsletter and take advantage of our free educational resources.

For questions or help signing up, please contact our Homeowner Hub by calling 646-786-0888 or by emailing info@floodhelpny.org.  Our staff is also available to discuss the possibility of online sessions on coastal resiliency in New York.