Springfield opens applications for city lead-hazard program

Springfield is accepting applications for a city-backed program to address lead hazards and related healthy-homes issues in qualifying older properties.

The Lead Based-Paint Hazard Reduction Program is available citywide for one-to-four-unit homes built before 1978. The city’s application page lists online and downloadable applications for owner-occupied and investor-owned properties.

Funding targets about 120 housing units

The program is backed by a $5,123,276.05 award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, plus up to $700,000 in potential matching funds from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Springfield expects the grant to support lead-hazard control and limited healthy-homes work in approximately 120 housing units. That is the city’s projected program reach, not a guarantee that every eligible applicant will receive assistance.

Who may qualify

Eligible applicants include income-qualified owner-occupants and owners of investor-owned properties whose tenants meet the program’s requirements. The property must be in Springfield, contain one to four units and have been built before 1978.

For owner-occupied homes, household income generally must be at or below 80% of area median income. For rental units, the tenant household generally must be at or below 50% of area median income. The eligible household must include a child under age 6 or a pregnant resident.

Additional requirements apply. Owner-occupants must use the property as their primary residence for at least three years, keep property insurance in place and be current on city taxes and fees. Investor-owned properties must meet requirements involving rent levels, insurance, mortgage payments, taxes, fees and code compliance.

How the assistance works

Funding is provided through a forgivable mortgage and lien against the property for a three-year period. A licensed lead-abatement contractor must perform the work, which is intended to result in a Massachusetts Letter of Full Deleading Compliance for eligible units addressed through the program.

Priority is given to households involving children under 6 or pregnant residents because lead hazards can pose serious risks during early childhood and pregnancy. The city has identified Springfield as a high-risk community for childhood lead poisoning because of its older housing stock.

How to apply

Applicants should review the Springfield Office of Housing program page for eligibility rules, required documents and application links before submitting materials.

The city lists separate online and PDF applications for owner-occupied properties and investor-owned rental properties. Questions can be directed to the Office of Housing at 413-787-6500 or LBPHCInfo@springfieldcityhall.com. The city also lists contacts for program intake and project management.

Applying does not guarantee funding. Each household and property must satisfy the program’s income, occupancy, ownership, tax, insurance, rental and property-condition requirements, and the program is expected to address only a portion of Springfield’s lead-hazard needs.

Sources

• Springfield Lead Based-Paint Hazard Reduction Program application page
• Western Mass News: Springfield opens applications for home lead removal