Eureka—In the wake of the recent earthquake and flooding from strong winter storms, many Humboldt County residents may be wondering how they can afford to repair damage to their homes. For income-qualified homeowners, the County of Humboldt offers low-interest, deferred loans to fix a cracked chimney, leaky water heater, slipped footing or leaking roof and more.

“In the Humboldt Hill, Cutten and the lower Eel River Valley areas, I know many people are facing significant damage. This program may be able to help you make the needed repairs, and even some energy efficiency upgrades,” said Jimmy Smith, Supervisor for 1st District, where much of the county earthquake and storm damage has been concentrated.

Homeowners earning 80% of the area median income or less qualify. That means, a family of two earning $35,700 and a family of four earning $44,650. Funds are loaned, but there are no required monthly payments and the loan doesn’t have to be paid back until the homeowner sells or moves out of their home.

“We want to help people. This is a valuable program for people struggling financially with how to repair their home,” said Bonnie Neely, Supervisor for the 4th District, which also experienced the brunt of the earthquake.

Homes repaired with this program must be in the unincorporated area of the County and the homeowner must occupy the home as their primary residence. The program stipulates that the home may not be valued over $299,250 after work has been completed.

Under the “Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Program,” home rehabilitation can include health and safety code items, roofs, foundations, paint, plumbing, electrical and septic systems, as well as energy efficiency upgrades.

The funding for this program comes from a grant from the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development.

For more information, please call the County Economic Development Division, 707-445-7745.