The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps low-income households reduce their energy costs by making their homes more energy efficient.
The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, and is often administered by the same agency that offers the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Once approved, your local WAP provider will conduct a professional energy audit analysis and provide you with a recommended scope of work of the most cost-effective energy conservation measures for your home.
During this energy audit, WAP reviews the following:
- a blower-door (pressurized) test to determine the entry of outside air into your house
- an inspection of all energy equipment for potential health and safety issues
- analysis of your energy bills
Once the energy audit is complete, local licensed and insured weatherization contractors will complete the work at no cost to the residents.
Typical weatherization activities include:
- Attic Insulation
- Sidewall Insulation
- Floor Insulation
- Pipe and/or Duct insulation
- Energy Equipment Repairs
Who is eligible for WAP?
As many as 20-30 million U.S. families are eligible for weatherization services nationwide.
Low-income individuals that have already been determined eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and other federally funded programs like SSI or TANF are eligible for weatherization services.
In order to qualify, your gross annual income must not exceed 60% of the estimated average income in your state. Priority is given to people over 60 years of age, families with one or more member having a disability, and families with children.
Both homeowners and tenants (with their landlord’s permission) are eligible.
How to apply for WAP
The first step in applying for WAP is to determine your state’s specific application criteria.
Applicants can visit www.energy.gov and select their state on the map for specific application instructions, and contact information for their state’s Weatherization Administrator.
