The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) focuses on energy efficiency and helps low-income households take advantage of reduced energy costs by making their home 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).
The process is simple. Get approved, and a local WAP provider will perform an energy audit on your home. Once the audit is complete, you will be presented with cost-effective measures you can take to make your home more energy efficient.
What to expect during your energy audit from WAP:
- a pressurized test to determine the amount of draft in your windows and doors
- an inspection of all equipment that utilizes energy for potential health and safety issues
- a breakdown of your energy bill and where costs can be cut or eliminated completely
Once the energy audit is complete, local licensed and insured weatherization contractors will complete the work free of charge.
Typical weatherization activities include:
- Attic, Sidewall and/or 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.
WAP is available to all low-income individuals regardless of predetermined eligibility for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and other federally funded programs like TANF or SSI.
How to qualify and apply
Gross annual income must not exceed 60 percent of the estimated average income in your state. Priority is given to families with dependents, people over 60 years of age, and those with a disability.
Both homeowners and tenants (with their landlord’s permission) are eligible.
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. Contact information for the local Weatherization Administrator is available as a resource as well.
