Fix-It Fair Community Resource Guide – Housing and Home Repair Resources

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Resources to help remain in and improve your home.
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City of Portland – Renter Resources

Bureaus across the City offer resources to residents to help them stay in and improve their housing, please visit the websites for more and the most up to date information. If you are in need of rent assistance, call 211 or visit 211info.org’s Housing and Shelter page to connect with organizations who offer housing intervention services.

Rental Services Office (RSO)

The office hosts a helpline for technical assistance and information on landlord-tenant laws and policy as well as provides trainings for landlords. Staff can provide referrals and information, they cannot offer legal advice.

Fair Access in Renting (FAIR)

The City regulates security deposits, move in fees, and criteria that may be used to select tenants.

Eviction Legal Support

Tenants can seek these free legal services as soon as they receive a Notice of Termination and do not need to wait until an eviction case is filed.

Mandatory Relocation Assistance

The City requires landlords to pay relocation assistance to renters under certain conditions.

Financial Assistance for Multifamily Sewer and Water Bills

$650 voucher to cover water and sewer costs that are part of rent when faced with eviction (through Home Forward), must be at or below 60 percent of Median Family Income.

Free Extra Capacity Waste Container

Apply to increase trash disposal capacity at no cost. Low-income (PWB bill discount, SNAP etc.) or health condition.

North/Northeast Preference Policy

The N/NE Preference Policy waitlist for rental housing is open on a rolling basis. Priority status is given to applicants, and/or their descendants, who previously owned property that was taken by Portland City government through eminent domain. 

Landlord-Tenant Mediation Pilot Program

In partnership with Resolutions Northwest, provides free mediation services to landlords and tenants with rental housing disputes. The goal of the Landlord-Tenant Mediation Pilot Program is to increase housing stability for tenants, avoid court filings, and improve relationships between landlords and tenants.

Lead-In-Water Testing

Free lead-in-water test kit for Portland residents and some surrounding water providers. 

City of Portland – Homeowner Support Services

Water Bureau and Bureau of Environmental Services Financial Assistance

The bureaus provide several types of financial assistance. 

  • Bill discount. Bill discounts are eligible to certain income qualifying homeowners.
  • Crisis voucher. If Homeowners have a personal crisis and are enrolled in the bill discount program, they may be able to receive a voucher (a credit) of up to $500.
  • Water Efficiency Rebates, Rebates for new water-efficient toilets, outdoor irrigation devices, and commercial ice machines.
  • Lead-In-Water Testing, Free lead-in-water test kit for Portland residents.
  • Financial Assistance for Tree Permit Application Fees. Get a waiver for permit application fees. Enrollment in PWB Bill Discount to qualify.
  • Clean River Rewards. Discount on stormwater bill for safely managing stormwater (rain that runs off your roof) on your property, i.e., soaks into the ground. City of Portland stormwater customer.
  • Treebate Program. One-time credit on your sewer/stormwater/water bill for planting a tree in your yard. City of Portland sewer, stormwater, water customer.

Lead Hazard Control Grant Program

The Lead Hazard Control Program provides an evaluation of lead-based paint hazards and financial assistance to reduce lead-based paint hazards in pre-1978 housing occupied by low- and moderate-income households.

North/Northeast Preference Policy

The N/NE Preference Policy waitlist for homeownership housing is open on a rolling basis. Priority status is given to applicants, and/or their descendants, who previously owned property that was taken by Portland City government through eminent domain. 

Down Payment Assistance Loan Program

The Down Payment Assistance Loan (DPAL) is a second mortgage loan funded by the Portland Housing Bureau (PHB), and it is used with a first mortgage loan from a participating lender. DPAL is designed with terms to help first-time homebuyers purchase a home within Portland. 

Home Repair and Home Ownership Retention Services

Portland Housing Bureau provides funding to community organizations to provide home retention case management and small financial assistance to help low-to-moderate income homeowners retain their housing. For the most up-to-date information or to apply for services, contact the organizations directly.

Homeowner Foreclosure Prevention

The Homeowner Foreclosure Prevention program works through partner organizations to provide foreclosure prevention counseling and financial assistance to homeowners facing foreclosure.

Native Plant Certificate

Provides funding for native plants. Maximum $50 for individuals, $500 for community groups. 

Financial Assistance for Tree Permit Application Fees

Get a waiver for certain permit application fees. Enrollment in PWB Bill Discount program.

Free Extra Capacity Waste Container

Apply to increase trash disposal capacity at no cost. Low-income (PWB bill discount, SNAP etc.) or health condition.

Free Home Energy Assessment (Home Energy Score)

Exemption, waiver, and free assessments for new construction. Low-income (PWB bill discount, SNAP etc.) homeowners.

City of Portland – Home Repair Resources

0% Home Repair Loans

PHB program offers a no-interest loan of up to $40,000 to fund repairs, like plumbing issues or a leaking roof. Funding is available to residents earning up to 120 percent of Portland AMI and additional funding available in certain TIF districts. This program additionally serves lower income homeowners who live in the Interstate Corridor Urban Renewal Area (ICURA). Serves low-income homeowners who live in theInterstate Urban Renewal Area (URA). Check URA residence at Urban Renewal Area Look Up,

Safety Net Low Income Loans

Property owners who qualify may use this low-interest loan to pay for the cost of putting in a sewer line when the City has required it. In some cases, loans are also available for repair or replacement of a sewer line that has broken and needs to be replaced. Borrowers aged 62 and older may defer making payments until the property is sold or transferred. Loans are due in full upon sale or transfer of property. 

Water Leak Repair Assistance

Homeowners enrolled in bill discount program may be eligible to have a leak fixed for free.

Drainage Technical Assistance

Free technical assistance for residential drainage concerns andClean River Rewards. 

Empowered Neighborhood Program

This program assists vulnerable residents from communities of color and/or those with disabilities, who have code enforcement issues that require attention and aims to creates pathways to compliance and recourse. 

Other City of Portland Resources

RV Pollution Prevention Program

Portland residents living in recreational vehicles (RVs) parked on the street are eligible for the pump out program. There is no application.

  • Website 
  • Call 503-865-6884 to request a pump out.

Oregon Worker Relief - Household Relief and Legal Defense

Application forms are not used for these programs. Each applicant must call the call center directly to apply: 1-888-274-7292. Oregon Worker Relief and partners support immigrant and refugee Portlanders with help to keep small businesses open, stay stably housed, and navigate the immigration legal system. 

Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS)

Services include rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, navigation, shelter/survival support, hygiene and employment.

PDX WAV

Anyone in Portland can access an accessible on-demand vehicle easily from drivers who have received extra training including Passenger Assistance, Safety & Sensitivity Training including hands-on wheelchair securement training. You can request a ride by calling PDX WAV at 503-865-4WAV (503-865-4928) 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, or by using the TNC app (Lyft or Uber) on your wireless device.

TriMet Honored Citizens Pass

TriMet fares reduced between 50-72%. Earns less than double the federal poverty limit.

PBOT BIKETOWN for All

Reduced fees for BIKETOWN membership. Enrolled in SNAP, unemployment, affordable housing, TriMet Honored Citizen, OHP, etc. Partnership between the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), Lyft, etc. 

PBOT Discounted Scooter-Share

Discounted prices on scooter rental.

PBOT Transportation Wallet & Golden Transportation Wallet

Discounts on annual transportation services including TriMet, Streetcar, BIKETOWN and scooters. TriMet Honored Citizens, new movers into new multi-dwelling buildings and those living in Northwest and Central Eastside Parking Districts.

Portland Parks and Recreation Free Lunch + Play

Offering free meals and activities for kids during the summer.

BDS Arts Empowerment Program

Supporting artists in the BIPOC community and persons with disabilities with permitting assistance. 

Civic Life SEED Grant

Grant program to support businesses led by BIPOC individuals and women and other programs or services that benefit BIPOC communities. Projects, programs and services within education, entrepreneurship and economic development, or expungement. (NOT low income-specific).

Community-Based Programs – Renter Resources

211

If you are in need of rent assistance, call 211 or visit 211info.org’s Housing and Shelter page to connect with organizations who offer housing intervention services.

Community Alliance of Tenants (CAT)

Advocacy organization for renters. 

Portland Tenants United 

An all-volunteer union that offers legal resources for tenants and information about tenants’ rights. 

Community-Based Programs – Homeowner Support Services 

Foreclosure Prevention Guidance

Portland Housing Bureau provides funding to community organizations to provide foreclosure prevention counseling to help homeowners retain their housing. The Homeowner Foreclosure Prevention program works through partner organizations to provide foreclosure prevention counseling and financial assistance to homeowners facing foreclosure.

African American Alliance for Homeownership (AAAH)

AAAH provides home retention case management services to keep low-income homeowners in stable housing. Offers HUD-certified foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation counseling and hosts an annual fair that addresses the needs of both homebuyers and homeowners trying to avoid foreclosure.

Hacienda Community Development Center

Hacienda’s Default Intervention Program provides support to homeowners at risk of foreclosure. HUD-certified housing counselors work with those struggling financially to identify and explore all available options based on their specific situations. Limited-time funding available for mortgage assistance. Services available in English/Spanish.

Native American Youth & Family Center (NAYA)

NAYA offers HUD-approved foreclosure prevention counseling. They also host an annual fair that addresses the needs of both homebuyers and homeowners trying to avoid foreclosure.

Homeownership Retention Services

Portland Housing Bureau provides funding to community organizations to provide home retention case management and small financial assistance to help low-to-moderate income homeowners retain their housing. For the most up-to-date information or to apply for services, contact the organizations directly.

Latino Network

Latino Network’s Family Stability Programs help families connect to the resources and assistance they need. Bilingual/bicultural case managers provide culturally specific intensive home retention case management to help families secure stable housing. Services available in English/Spanish.

Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives, Inc.

PCRI provides home retention case management services to keep low-income homeowners in stable housing.

Multnomah County Energy Assistance Program 

Provides home energy assistance to households with low incomes. The purpose of the program is to supplement home heating and electric costs.

Oregon Energy Fund

Oregon Energy Fund is a private, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps customers struggling to pay their winter utility bills. It’s funded by donations from partnerships with PGE and other utility companies, as well as from private individuals. 

Portland General Electric

Income-Qualified Bill Discount The Income-Qualified Bill Discount program  provides ongoing, monthly help with your PGE bill.

Community-Based Programs – Home Repair Resources

Need help with home repairs? Below is a list of Portland-area community organizations that offer aid with home repairs or funding. Basic program overviews and eligibility requirements are listed here, but for the most up-to-date information or to apply for services, contact the organizations directly. 

African American Alliance for Homeownership (AAAH)

Offers home retention services, tax delinquency support, and foreclosure counseling for individuals and families struggling to sustain, maintain, or retain their home. Applicants can get up to $1,000 to use for small emergency and safety repairs. 

Serves low-income homeowners in East Portland zip codes 97216, 97220, 97230, 97233, 97236, and 97266. 

Catalyst Partnerships 

Provides critical home repairs for free. Work is organized and overseen by licensed general contractors and performed by volunteers. Serves income-qualified homeowners earning less than 80% of the median family income (MFI) all over the Portland Metro area. 

Community Energy Project

EmergencyHomeRepair&SeniorWeatherization - Safety repairs and in-home weatherization services to save energy and reduce utility bills.

Expanded Home Repair - Larger repairs to plumbing or electrical needs, roof patches, gutters, etc.

DIY Weatherization Workshops - Learn basic weatherization and insulation techniques and get free supplies to save on energy costs in your home.

Specializes in home weatherization and repair. Community Energy Project partners with the Oregon Community Solar program to give Oregonians new opportunities to go solar. Hosts DIY weatherization workshops to teach low-cost energy saving techniques for renters and homeowners. Hosts lead poisoning prevention workshops that teach practical skills to avoid exposure to lead. 

Cooling Portland 

Provides life-saving and efficient portable heat/cooling equipment to low-income residents, prioritizing those most vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat fueled by climate change.

Habitat for Humanity Home Repair 

Home repairs for income-qualified homeowners; roofs, siding, accessibility modification, etc. Serves homeowners at or below 80% AMI (area median income) living in the Portland area.

Hacienda Community Development Center 

Default Intervention Program provides support to homeowners at risk of foreclosure.

Latino Network

Offers home retention services and minor home repair services. Serves qualifying homeowners in East Portland. 

Multnomah County Weatherization Program 

Offers energy efficiency, heating, insulation, and ventilation upgrades.

Serves homeowners or renters who live on a limited income and live in Multnomah County. 

Multnomah County Wood Burning Exchange

Free or low-cost exchange of wood burning stove or fireplace with efficient electric heat pump.

Native American Youth & Family Center (NAYA)

Home Repair and Weatherization - Repair, maintenance, and in-home weatherization services to save energy and reduce utility bills. Critical Home Repair - Offers weatherization and critical home repair. Serves East Portland. income-qualified homeowners earning less than 50% MFI age 55 or older or have a disability. 

Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives, Inc. (PCRI)

Homeownership retention program helps with urgent home repairs, including plumbing, electrical, and water heater repairs. Free home assessments are available for homeowners receiving repairs. Serves income-qualified homeowners earning less than 80% MFI for home repairs and 100% MFI for retention services who are age 55 or older and live in Portland. 

HomeownershipRetention&Repair-PCRI’s program objective is to foster homeownership stability for low-to-moderate income homeowners, aged 55 and older, living within the City of Portland.

REACH Community Development

CommunityBuildersProgram-REACH's Community Builders Program provides small-scale home repairs for low-income senior or disabled homeowners throughout Portland. Offers plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and other critical repairs. Serves low-income homeowners who are at least 55 years old or who have a disability. 

Rebuilding Together Safe&HealthyRepairProgram

Rebuilding Together volunteers provide extensive home repairs for low-income homeowners throughout Portland. Provides carpentry, electrical repairs, painting, plumbing, flooring, home safety modifications (like grab bars, handrails, wheelchair ramps, and more), debris removal, and yard clean-up. 

ReFIT 

Modifies homes to make them accessible, installing ADA-compliant toilets, wheelchair ramps, shower grab bars, and inserts. Serves low-income homeowners who have limited mobility or functional limitations. 

Renovate PDX

Rebuild & Renew program offers discounted design, code, permitting, and management services for qualified owners.

Taking Ownership PDX

A community collective offering home repair and renovation services for Black-owned homes. Aims to deter gentrification by supporting Black homeowners to age in place. 

Unlimited Choices

Adapt-A-Home.Accessibility adaptations for people of all ages with physical disabilities. Modifications may include handrails, wheel-in showers, ramps, and more.

Mend-A-Home.Home repairs for safety and structural stability needs, including mobile homes.

Verde Builds 

Cooling Portland and Ductless Heat Pump programs provides free or low-cost cooling units and ductless heat pumps.

Program for income-qualified homeowners that installs naturescapes and rain gardens for free.

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fixitfair@portlandoregon.gov

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Topics

Community education and outreach
Rent or own property
Water, stormwater, and sewer

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