Weatherization Assistance Program in New York

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in New York State provides free energy-saving improvements to income-eligible households. The goal of WAP is to reduce home energy consumption and utility bills by improving the energy efficiency, comfort, and safety of homes. The program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and administered in New York by the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR).

Through WAP, qualifying homeowners and renters can receive a comprehensive energy audit and a wide range of home upgrades. These may include insulation, air sealing, heating system repair or replacement, lighting upgrades, and other cost-effective measures that improve energy performance. Services are delivered by a network of local agencies throughout the state and are provided at no cost to eligible households.

Who Is Eligible for WAP?

Eligibility for the Weatherization Assistance Program in New York is based primarily on household income and size. In general, a household may qualify if:

You live in New York State.
Your household income is at or below 60% of the state median income.
Someone in the household receives HEAP, SNAP, TANF, or SSI benefits.
You are a renter or homeowner responsible for energy costs.

WAP is open to both homeowners and renters, including those in single-family homes, mobile homes, and multifamily buildings. If you rent, the property owner’s written permission is required to complete weatherization work. Landlords may also be asked to contribute to the cost of improvements in rental units.

What Services Are Provided?

The specific services you receive through WAP depend on the results of a home energy audit, which is conducted as part of the program. Trained technicians inspect your home and determine the most effective improvements based on cost savings and safety. Common weatherization measures include:

Blown-in attic and wall insulation
Air sealing to eliminate drafts and heat loss
Furnace, boiler, or water heater repair or replacement
Repair or sealing of ducts and vents
Upgrades to lighting and appliances (in some cases)
Carbon monoxide testing and ventilation improvements
Health and safety checks to address combustion safety, mold, and ventilation issues

All services are provided at no cost to the household. The improvements can result in significant energy savings, with many homes seeing heating and cooling costs drop by 20% to 30% annually. WAP also enhances home comfort and can improve indoor air quality and overall safety.

Benefits of Weatherization

WAP provides multiple long-term benefits, including:

Lower monthly utility bills
More comfortable indoor temperatures
Improved energy efficiency and conservation
Extended life of heating and cooling equipment
Reduced carbon footprint and environmental impact
Enhanced home value
Improved safety and health through ventilation and carbon monoxide checks

For households facing high heating bills, drafty rooms, or unreliable heating systems, WAP can be a life-changing program that provides both immediate relief and long-term savings.

How to Apply

To apply for the Weatherization Assistance Program in New York:

Find your local weatherization agency using the WAP provider directory.
Contact the agency to request an application or get help completing one.
Submit documentation, including proof of income, utility bills, and proof of residence or homeownership.
If renting, provide landlord contact information and permission to complete work.

There is no cost to apply. Once your application is reviewed and approved, the local provider will schedule a home energy audit and begin work based on the results. Wait times may vary based on demand and funding availability.

Required Documents

Be prepared to provide the following documentation when applying:

Proof of identity for all household members
Social Security numbers or equivalent identification
Proof of household income (pay stubs, benefit letters, tax returns)
Utility bills showing current energy usage
Proof of residence or homeownership (lease, deed, or mortgage statement)
Landlord consent if renting

Additional documents may be required depending on your situation and local agency requirements.

More Information

To learn more about WAP and check your eligibility, visit the following resources:

Weatherization is a powerful tool for reducing energy costs, improving comfort, and protecting public health. Whether you're facing high heating bills or want to improve your home’s energy efficiency, the Weatherization Assistance Program can help — and it’s completely free to those who qualify.

WAP in NY