FREE In- Home Energy Assessment & Upgrades. Schedule Today
New York State Weatherization Assistance Program
Maximize Home Comfort & Reduce Energy Costs
What Is the Weatherization Assistance Program?
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally backed, state-administered initiative designed to make homes safer, more comfortable, and significantly more energy efficient for income-eligible residents in New York State. This program targets households that spend a disproportionate amount of their income on heating and cooling by reducing energy waste and lowering utility costs through proven efficiency improvements.
Unlike incentive programs that provide rebates after work is done, the Weatherization Assistance Program delivers no-cost improvements — meaning eligible applicants receive efficiency upgrades at zero out-of-pocket cost for homeowners or renters.
Over the last several decades, this program has made hundreds of thousands of homes more energy efficient, helping families save money and improving living conditions statewide.
How the Weatherization Process Works
- Apply Through a Local Provider: Residents begin by submitting an application to a local Weatherization Assistance Provider — these are certified teams trained in energy efficiency and home performance.
- Comprehensive Energy Audit: A trained professional conducts a full home energy assessment to identify heat loss, airflow problems, inefficiencies, and health and safety issues that can affect comfort and energy use.
- Customized Scope of Work: Based on audit results, a detailed plan is developed that targets the most cost-effective improvements — tailored to your home’s design, heating system, and current performance.
- Installation of Weatherization Measures: Certified crews install approved upgrades such as insulation, air sealing, efficient ventilation, and more.
Who Is Eligible?
The Weatherization Assistance Program is designed for income-qualified New Yorkers who are burdened by energy costs. Eligibility guidelines include:
- Household Income at or Below 60% of the New York State median income — this standard is updated annually. 
- Automatic Eligibility: Residents receiving HEAP, SNAP, SSI, or other public assistance benefits are automatically considered eligible
- Open to Homeowners and Renters: Homeowners and renters can apply — renters typically require consent from the property owner.
- Applicable to Multiple Housing Types: Single-family homes, manufactured homes, and multi-family buildings may qualify for services through this program.
Ready to Check If You Qualify?
If you’re struggling with high heating or cooling bills, the Weatherization Assistance Program may cover improvements for your home at no cost.
What Services and Improvements Are Covered
Weatherization work is not one-size-fits-all. The program funds targeted home improvements proven to reduce energy loss and improve comfort. Common high-impact services include:
Air Sealing
Sealing cracks, gaps, and penetrations in the building envelope to prevent heat loss and drafts.
Insulation Upgrades
Adding or replacing insulation in attics, walls, floors, and crawlspaces to improve R-value and reduce heat transfer.
Heating System Repair or Replacement
Fixing or replacing inefficient or unsafe heating equipment.
Health & Safety Fixes
Addressing hazards such as combustion safety issues, ventilation imbalances, or electrical concerns as part of the weatherization process.
How to Apply & Get Started
- Find a Local Weatherization Provider:Contact your local Weatherization Assistance Provider — these organizations manage applications and delivery of services statewide.
- Submit Your Application:Provide basic household information, proof of income, and details about your home.
- Schedule Your Energy Audit:After eligibility is verified, an audit team will assess your home’s energy profile.
- Receive Weatherization Upgrades:Once your plan is finalized, upgrades begin — all at no direct cost to you for qualifying homes
Real Benefits of Weatherization
- Lower Energy Bills: Weatherization typically reduces heating and cooling costs by addressing uncontrolled heat loss and inefficiencies.
- Improved Home Comfort: Sealing drafts and increasing insulation leads to more consistent indoor temperatures year-round.
- Enhanced Safety and Health:Addressing ventilation and combustion hazards improves indoor air quality and reduces safety risks.
- Increased Home Durability:Properly installed weatherization measures can protect structural components and extend the life of home systems.
- Environmental Impact:Reducing energy waste also reduces greenhouse gas emissions — a benefit for both families and the broader community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New York Weatherization Assistance Program?
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally backed, state-administered program that helps income-eligible New York residents make their homes safer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient. The program reduces energy waste and lowers utility costs through proven home improvements – all delivered at no out-of-pocket cost to eligible applicants.
Who is eligible for the Weatherization Assistance Program?
Eligibility is based on household income and need. You may qualify if:
- Your household income is at or below 60% of the New York State median income (updated annually)
- You currently receive HEAP, SNAP, SSI, or other qualifying public assistance benefits (automatic eligibility)
- You own or rent a single-family home, manufactured home, or unit in a multi-family building
Can renters apply?
Yes. Renters can apply for the program, but they typically need consent from their property owner before weatherization work can begin. Both the renter and landlord benefit from the improvements.
What improvements does the program cover?
Weatherization work is customized to each home based on an energy audit. Common improvements include:
- Air sealing – closing gaps, cracks, and penetrations to stop heat loss and drafts
- Insulation upgrades in attics, walls, floors, and crawlspaces
- Heating system repair or replacement for inefficient or unsafe equipment
- Health and safety fixes addressing ventilation, combustion safety, or electrical concerns
What are the benefits of getting my home weatherized?
Households that go through the program typically experience:
- Lower heating and cooling bills due to reduced energy waste
- More consistent indoor temperatures year-round
- Improved indoor air quality and reduced safety risks
- Better long-term durability of home systems and structural components
- A reduced environmental footprint through lower energy consumption
They’ll tell you. Some issues fall outside the program’s scope—like major structural problems, mold remediation, or certain repairs. The contractor will explain what EmPower+ covers and what it doesn’t. You’re not required to fix everything they find. Many people just do what the program covers and handle other issues separately or later.