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SB 5 / HB 3 Chapter 540 · § 6

Income-Qualified Energy Efficiency & Weatherization

Save money.
Stay warm.
It’s free.

Virginia offers free weatherization and energy efficiency upgrades for income-qualifying households. Lower your bills, improve your home, and reduce your energy use.

62,826

Households Served

$307.3 million

Invested in Virginia Homes

172M kWh

Energy Saved

Programs Available to You

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) works with a network of nonprofit organizations to deliver these no-cost services directly to your home.

Weatherization Assistance (WAP)

DHCD's core program reduces energy use through cost-effective measures. Services include sealing air leaks, adding insulation, repairing heating and cooling systems, installing ventilation fans, and fixing drafty duct systems.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Utility-sponsored programs providing energy-efficient lighting, CO2 and fire alarms, smart thermostats, and HVAC improvements. Includes a full health and safety inspection with carbon monoxide testing.

Weatherization Deferral Repairs

Pre-weatherization repairs to make your home eligible for full weatherization, including roof, plumbing, electrical, and structural fixes necessary to receive energy efficiency measures.

Typical Weatherization Services

Checking for health and safety risks, including testing for carbon monoxide levels
Installing CO2 and fire alarms
Sealing air leaks with insulation, caulking, or weather-stripping
Installing ventilation fans
Repairing drafty duct systems
Repairing and replacing inefficient or unsafe heating and cooling systems
Installing energy-efficient lighting
Full home energy assessment

Source: DHCD Weatherization Assistance Program

For researchers and program staff

Explore the program data

Households served, funds invested and energy saved, by census tract and program — the dataset § 6 directs DHCD to publish each year.

Hear from Your Neighbors

After getting my home weatherized, my winter heating bill dropped by almost half. I wish I had applied sooner.

Maria T.

Richmond, VA

Saved $1,200/year

The whole process was free. They replaced my old furnace and added insulation to my attic. My house has never been this comfortable.

James W.

Roanoke, VA

Saved $890/year

I was on a waitlist for six months, but it was worth it. They fixed drafts I didn't even know about and my energy costs went way down.

Patricia L.

Norfolk, VA

Saved $640/year

Are You Eligible?

You may qualify if your household income is at or below these limits (the higher of 60% state median income or 200% federal poverty level):

1 person

$43,420

2 people

$56,780

3 people

$70,140

4 people

$83,500

5 people

$96,860

6 people

$110,220

Income Eligibility Limits Effective 07/01/2025 per DHCD Information Notice 02-2025. Virginia state median income for a family of four: $139,167. View full income limits

WAP@dhcd.virginia.gov(804) 371-7000600 East Main Street, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23219

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

Nothing. The Weatherization Assistance Program is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and Virginia utilities. Qualifying households pay $0 for energy improvements.

What kind of improvements are included?

DHCD's program includes sealing air leaks with insulation, caulking, or weather-stripping; installing ventilation fans; repairing drafty duct systems; repairing or replacing inefficient heating and cooling systems; installing energy-efficient lighting; and checking for health and safety risks including carbon monoxide testing.

How do I apply?

Contact your local weatherization provider -- DHCD works with a network of nonprofit organizations around the state. Contact the provider where your home is located. You can find your provider at dhcd.virginia.gov/wx or by emailing WAP@dhcd.virginia.gov.

Does WAP help pay utility bills?

No. The Weatherization Assistance Program does not offer assistance with paying utility bills. It reduces your energy costs long-term by making your home more efficient. For utility bill assistance, contact the Virginia Department of Social Services.

How long does it take?

Wait times vary by region, typically 3-12 months. Once approved, the work itself usually takes 1-3 weeks to complete.

What are the income limits?

As of July 2025, a single person can earn up to $43,420/year; a family of four up to $83,500/year. Virginia uses the higher of 60% of state median income or 200% of federal poverty guidelines.