You need modifications or repairs to make your home safer.

Home modifications and repairs include adaptations to homes that can make it easier and safer to carry out activities such as bathing, cooking, and climbing stairs and alterations to the physical structure of the home to improve its overall safety and condition.

Why Is Home Modification And Repair Important?

Home modification and repair can help prevent accidents such as falls. Research suggests that one-third to one-half of home accidents can be prevented by modification and repair. This enables seniors to remain in their homes. Older people tend to live in older homes that often need repairs and modifications.

Over 60% of older persons live in homes more than 20 years old. Home modification and repair can accommodate lifestyle changes, increase comfort, promote independence and prevent accidents.

Typical Problems

  • Difficulty getting in and out of the shower

  • Slipping in the tub or shower

  • Difficulty turning faucet handles/doorknobs

  • Access to home

  • Inadequate heating or ventilation

  • Problems climbing staffs

Possible Solutions

  • Install grab bars, shower seats or transfer benches

  • Place non-skid strips or decals in the tub or shower

  • Replace with lever handles

  • Install ramps

  • Install insulation, storm windows and air conditioning

  • Install handrails for support

Financial Assistance

Some home modifications and repairs are critical and a Washtenaw County program is available, on a case by case basis, to make loans, provide services free of charge or at reduced rates for eligible older people. Washtenaw County offers several home modification and repair resources for low-income residents.

Non-Profit Organizations

  • Jewish Family Services: Offers free home safety modifications and repairs.

  • Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley: Offers critical home repairs, exterior projects, and appliance replacements for low-income families, seniors, and veterans.

  • Rebuilding Together Southeast Michigan (RTSEM): Provides no-cost repairs (often by volunteers) for homeowners who are seniors (60+), veterans, disabled, or have children, meeting HUD income guidelines.  RTSEM currently serves residents in Oakland County and Detroit's City Council District 4 in Wayne County.

Washtenaw County-Sponsored Programs (Income-Eligible)

  • Home Rehabilitation Program: Supports emergency repairs (furnace, water heater), roofing, and accessibility features like wheelchair ramps for qualifying low-income homeowners.

  • Weatherization Program: Offers free improvements like insulation, air sealing, and furnace/water heater tune-ups to lower energy bills.

  • Home Improvement Programs: Includes furnace/refrigerator replacements, energy optimization, and other repairs. 

Senior-Specific Resources

  • EHM Handy Service: Offers services for aging-in-place, including grab bar installation, minor repairs, and home safety evaluations for seniors.

  • AgeWays (Area Agency on Aging 1-B): A resource for seniors and caregivers, often listing local partners like Habitat for Humanity.