Mayor Smiley Announces Providence Home Repair Program
PROVIDENCE, RI— Mayor Brett P. Smiley and the Providence Department of Inspection and Standards (DIS), together with the Providence Revolving Fund (PRF), today announced a new City program that helps income-eligible homeowners who have incurred multiple housing code violations make essential repairs to their homes at no cost. The City is partnering with PRF to administer the program, which is funded by fees collected from DIS and a $3 million American Rescue Plan (ARPA) allocation. The Home Repair Program has already revitalized five properties throughout the City, improving the health, safety and quality of life in Providence neighborhoods.
“The Providence Home Repair Program underscores our commitment to innovative and compassionate governance,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “By reinvesting the fines we’ve collected from DIS into Providence neighborhoods, we are not only helping our most vulnerable homeowners who have fallen behind, but we’re also improving the quality-of-life, safety and wellbeing of our communities.”
The Home Repair Program redirects fines collected by DIS into a designated fund that is administered by the Providence Revolving Fund. These funds are allocated to homeowners who are unable to maintain their properties, often due to unexpected financial hardship. The program targets properties ranging from 1-4 units, benefiting owners who earn at or below 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
“It’s a great opportunity for homeowners who are struggling to clear dangerous code violations,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13). “As a city, our goal with code enforcement can be helping homeowners, oftentimes families that have lived in Providence for generations, stay safe and sound in their homes. Thank you to DIS and the law department for making this program a reality.”
To qualify for Home Repair funds, homeowners must meet certain income guidelines and own a Providence property that has code violations. The types of repairs covered by the fund include essential services that significantly impact the safety and wellbeing of residents, such as roofing, plumbing, electrical work, and structural repairs.
“We are proud to work with the City of Providence to foster inclusive communities where every resident can enjoy safe and healthy living conditions,” said Carrie Zaslow, Executive Director of PRF. “We are committed to being more than just a fund; we are a catalyst for enduring change, making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods.”
The program is administered to income-eligible homeowners through 5-year forgivable loans. Restrictions apply. Providence homeowners who are in need of assistance with code violations are encouraged to contact the Providence Department of Inspection and Standards at (401) 680-5201.
