If you own a home in Woonsocket (02895) and have been putting off a roof replacement due to cost, there is important news.
As of January 2026, the City of Woonsocket has re-launched theHUD-funded Safe at Home rehabilitation program, and the available funding levels are significant for local residents.
Below is a simple breakdown of what the program is, why roofs often qualify, and what documentation you typically need to apply.
The Safe at Home program: the quick breakdown
According to a recent report, Woonsocket has $1.5 million available this year for the program and increased the total limit available to each approved applicant to a $75,000 loan for single-family homes.
Key points mentioned in the report: - Up to $75,000 for a single-family, owner-occupied home - Up to $32,500 per unit for multi-family properties (with caps) - Available to households earning at or below 80% of area median income (AMI) - Half is forgivable after a period of affordability, and half is deferred (repayment at sale, refinance, exchange, or title transfer) - Awards are first-come, first-served and funding is limited
What does this mean for your roof?
The program is designed to address health and safety issues and bring homes into compliance with property maintenance code.
In Rhode Island, a leaking or structurally compromised roof is often a major health and safety problem because it can lead to: - Mold growth (health hazard) - Rot in roof decking and framing (structural hazard) - Water intrusion near electrical systems (fire risk)
In other words: if your roof is actively leaking, missing shingles, or failing structurally, it may be exactly the type of issue this program is meant to fix.
The funding structure (why this is not a normal loan)
This is not a typical bank loan.
As described in the report: - Half of the assistance is a forgivable loan after an affordability period - Half is a deferred loan, with repayment triggered by sale, refinance, exchange, or title transfer
Always confirm the exact terms directly with the City of Woonsocket before you apply.
Who may qualify?
The program targets income-qualified residents.
The report states: - Safe at Home is available to those earning at or below 80% of AMI - Homes must be owner-occupied
Eligibility can be detailed, so it is smart to contact the city early and ask what documents you will need.
How Mighty Dog Roofing helps you apply (documentation that supports your file)
Most funding programs require proof. For roof work, that usually means clear documentation of the problem and a professional estimate.
Here is how we support Woonsocket homeowners:
- Book a Mighty Dog inspection We document roof conditions with our Drone Super Scan so you have clear photos of what is failing.
- Get a photo-verified roof condition report We provide a report that can show common code-related issues such as:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Active leak points
- Deteriorated flashing
- Soft or rotting decking indicators (when visible)
Receive a detailed estimate A detailed scope of work helps reviewers understand why the repair is necessary and what it will cost.
Important note: We do not approve funding. The city does. Our role is to provide clear, professional documentation and pricing to support your application.
Do not wait: funds are first-come, first-served
The city is distributing awards on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding is limited.
If you think you may qualify, start the process now so you are not applying after the pot runs dry.
Schedule a Woonsocket roof inspection
Call/text (401) 425-4108 to schedule a Woonsocket roof inspection and get the documentation you need for your Safe at Home application.
Rhode Island Service Locations:
Ashaway, Barrington, Bradford, Bristol, Carolina, Central Falls, Charlestown, Chepachet, Clayville, Coventry, Cranston, Cumberland, East Greenwich, East Providence, Exeter, Forestdale, Foster, Glendale, Greene, Greenville, Harrisville,Hope,Hope Valley, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Johnston, Kenyon, Kingston, Lincoln, Little Compton, Manville, Mapleville, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, North Providence, North Scituate, North Smithfield, Oakland, Pascoag, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, Providence, Riverside, Rockville, Rumford, Saunderstown, Shannock, Scituate, Slatersville, Smithfield, Tiverton, Wakefield, Warren, Warwick, West Greenwich, West Kingston, West Warwick, Westerly, Wood River Junction, Woonsocket, Wyoming
FAQ
How do I apply for the Woonsocket home repair program?
Applications are available through the City of Woonsocket Housing and Community Development / Planning and Development resources. Start by confirming eligibility and required documents, then submit a complete application as early as possible.
Does the Woonsocket Safe at Home program cover roof replacement?
The program is designed to address health and safety code issues and bring homes into compliance. A leaking or failing roof is commonly considered a major health and safety issue, so roof replacement may qualify if it is needed to correct code-related problems.
Is the Woonsocket Safe at Home funding a grant or a loan?
The program is structured as a loan with a forgivable portion and a deferred portion, based on the program terms. Confirm the exact details with the city.