Grants to Replace Cast Iron Pipes in Texas (2026)
Can't afford $8,000-$25,000 for pipe replacement? You may qualify for grants, low-interest loans, or financial assistance programs that cover up to 100% of the cost. Here's everything Texas homeowners need to know.
✓ Last updated: February 11, 2026 | Program funding verified with state and local agencies
Quick Summary: Your Options
Federal Programs
FHA 203(k), HUD CDBG, USDA Rural Development
Up to $35,000
Texas State Programs
Bootstrap Loan, TDHCA, Housing Trust Fund
Up to $45,000
City/Local Programs
Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio specific
Up to $30,000
Federal Grants & Loans for Cast Iron Pipe Replacement
FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan
Most PopularRoll your cast iron pipe replacement cost into your mortgage. Perfect for homebuyers purchasing older homes or current homeowners refinancing.
Limited 203(k)
- • Repairs up to $35,000
- • Simpler application process
- • No minimum repair amount
- • Perfect for pipe replacement
Standard 203(k)
- • Repairs over $35,000
- • Major structural work
- • Requires HUD consultant
- • Full home renovation
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ Primary residence (owner-occupied)
- ✓ Credit score 580+ (lower with higher down payment)
- ✓ Debt-to-income ratio under 43%
- ✓ Home must meet HUD minimum standards after repair
HUD Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Federal funds distributed to cities and counties for community improvements, including home repair programs. These are often true grants that don't need repayment.
Texas CDBG Funding (2026)
- • Austin: $5.2 million allocated for housing rehabilitation
- • Houston: $8.7 million for home repair programs
- • Dallas: $4.8 million for community development
- • San Antonio: $4.1 million for housing assistance
Income Limits (2026)
Most programs require income below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI):
- • Austin: $72,000/year (family of 4)
- • Houston: $67,900/year (family of 4)
- • Dallas: $71,000/year (family of 4)
- • San Antonio: $61,300/year (family of 4)
USDA Rural Development Programs
If you live in a rural area or small town (under 35,000 population), you may qualify for these programs. Many Texas cities have qualifying rural areas nearby.
Section 504 Home Repair
- • Loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest
- • Grants up to $10,000 (62+ years old)
- • 20-year repayment term
- • Must be very low income (<50% AMI)
Section 502 Direct Loan
- • Purchase or rehab home
- • Below-market interest rates
- • No down payment required
- • Can include repair costs
Texas State Financial Assistance Programs
Texas Bootstrap Loan Program
Self-help housing program for very low-income families. While primarily for new construction, rehabilitation loans are available for existing homes needing major repairs like plumbing replacement.
- ✓ Loans up to $45,000 for rehabilitation
- ✓ 0% interest rate
- ✓ No monthly payments (repaid when you sell or refinance)
- ✓ Must contribute sweat equity (65 hours minimum)
Income Limit: Household income must be at or below 60% of Area Median Income. Contact TDHCA for current limits.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)
TDHCA administers several programs that can help with cast iron pipe replacement:
HOME Program
Federal funds administered by the state for owner-occupied housing rehabilitation. Grants up to $30,000 for major repairs.
Housing Trust Fund
State-funded program for extremely low-income households. Can cover plumbing repairs as part of housing rehabilitation.
Amy Young Barrier Removal Program
For homeowners with disabilities. Can include plumbing modifications if related to accessibility needs.
City-Specific Programs in Texas
Many Texas cities offer their own home repair assistance programs
Austin
Travis County
Housing Repair Coalition
Grants up to $30,000 for major repairs
Minor Home Repair Program
Up to $5,000 for smaller repairs
Austin Energy Rebates
Rebates for water-efficient upgrades
Houston
Harris County
Homeowner Assistance Program
Up to $35,000 for major repairs
Hurricane Harvey Recovery
Extended funding for storm damage repairs
Harris County CDBG Program
County-wide home repair grants
Dallas
Dallas County
Dallas Homebuyer Assistance
Up to $50,000 for purchase/rehab combined
Home Repair Program
Deferred loans up to $25,000
Senior Home Repair
For homeowners 62+ years old
San Antonio
Bexar County
Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation
Up to $35,000 for major repairs
Minor Home Repair Program
Up to $7,500 for smaller repairs
SAWS Conservation
Water utility rebates and assistance
Other Ways to Finance Cast Iron Pipe Replacement
Don't qualify for grants? Here are other financing options to make pipe replacement affordable:
Home Equity Loan / HELOC
Borrow against your home's equity at relatively low interest rates. Interest may be tax-deductible.
Personal Loan
No collateral required. Quick approval (often same-day). Fixed monthly payments.
Plumber Financing
Popular ChoiceMany cast iron pipe specialists offer financing through partners like GreenSky, Synchrony, or Service Finance. Often promotional 0% APR for 12-24 months.
Pro Tip: Ask about "same as cash" financing when getting quotes. Pay off within the promotional period to avoid deferred interest.
0% APR Credit Card
Open a new card with 0% intro APR (typically 15-21 months). Good for smaller jobs you can pay off quickly.
Warning: APR jumps to 20-29% after intro period. Only use if you're confident you can pay it off in time.
How to Apply for Cast Iron Pipe Grants
Check Your Eligibility
Most programs have income limits (typically 50-80% of Area Median Income), require owner-occupancy, and may have age or disability requirements. Call your city's housing department to confirm eligibility before applying.
Gather Documentation
You'll typically need:
- ✓ Proof of home ownership (deed)
- ✓ Income verification (tax returns, pay stubs)
- ✓ ID and Social Security numbers
- ✓ Utility bills (to prove residency)
- ✓ Plumber estimates (2-3 quotes)
Submit Application
Apply through your city's housing department or the program administrator. Many programs have waitlists, so apply early. Processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Get Inspection & Approval
A housing inspector will visit to confirm the repair need and scope. Once approved, you'll select a contractor (some programs have approved contractor lists).
Complete the Repair
Payment goes directly to the contractor upon completion and final inspection. You'll sign off that the work was completed satisfactorily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grants are available to replace cast iron pipes in Texas?
Can I get a grant to replace cast iron pipes if I have low income?
Does FHA 203(k) cover cast iron pipe replacement?
What is the income limit for plumbing assistance programs?
How do I apply for cast iron pipe replacement grants?
Are there grants for cast iron pipe replacement in Austin?
Not Sure If You Qualify? Get Expert Help
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