Planning Department
Weatherization Program

Robert Templeton, Energy Programs Supervisor
email

(585) 243-7560

Funded by the State of New York, Division of Housing and Community Renewal, Energy Services Bureau, through a grant received from the U. S. Department of Energy, pursuant to the National Energy Conservation Policy Act.

What is Weatherization?

Weatherization is a means by which air can be prevented from entering and heat can be prevented from leaving a dwelling unit, thus increasing heating efficiency and savings.

Four basic steps of weatherization:
  1. An application to the local agency in Geneseo to determine the income eligibility of the dwelling occupants.
  2. A pre-weatherization inspection of the dwelling unit to determine its specific needs. (Energy audit.)
  3. The weatherization of the unit.
  4. A post-program inspection of the unit to review the work quality and effectiveness.
In addition, many units will be spotted for pre and post weatherization energy audits. These audits will determine the consumption rates of energy before and after the weatherization work on the unit thus determining the effectiveness.

What service is included?

Services include but are not limited to the following:
This program is required to give its crew training by skilled personnel. Usually, crew supervisors have had years of experience in the building trade. In addition, the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal, Energy Services Bureau provides on-site monitoring and training of the work crews.

We are required to use and purchase only materials which meet Federal Standards. These are all purchased from reputable dealers.

To what extent will repairs be made?

Since the purpose of the program is weatherization, only minor repairs which are directly related to the weatherization process can be made, such as broken or rotted sills and jambs, external doors, etc. More extensive repairs and costs must be financed through other sources.

How is a dwelling unit defined?

A dwelling unit includes houses, stationary mobile homes, apartments, or any structure in which a family or individual is conducting a living situation year-round.

Are renters eligible?

Yes, providing they meet the income guideline. However, a landlord’s written agreement must be obtained and an owner investment may be required.

Is there a waiting list?

Yes. The waiting list may be as short as eight months or as long as two years. Sometimes, an application may need to be treated as a priority. The priority system is posted in our office.

What is a priority?

If your heating costs are extremely high and you receive public assistance and/or HEAP benefits, your application could become a priority. You would need to contact your caseworker at Social Services (243-7300) or, if you are over the age of 60, the Office for the Aging (243-7520.)

Please note: There are a limited number of priorities allowed per agency. Each agency decides who becomes a priority.

Is there a charge?

No. All services of the program are without obligation to the unit occupant. There is no charge to the occupant, and no liens nor mortgages are taken on the property because of the work done.

For some rental units, an investment may be required from the landlord. This will not be known until after an energy audit is completed.

What is the eligibility criteria and do I apply?

We provide services to individuals and/or families whose total gross income for the entire 12 months prior to their application was at or below the Office of Management and Budget Guidelines.

Income

Income refers to the total cash receipts before taxes from all sources for an entire month (x 12) preceding the time of application. These include cash wages and salaries.

Farm and businesses are net receipts after the deduction of allowable expense.

Other income may be: Social Security, Retirement, Compensation, Unemployment, Alimony, Interest, Trusts, Child Support, Dividends, Military Allotment, Food Stamps, Regular Room, Board or Rent payments, etc. for the last twelve months.

It does not include capital gains, withdrawal from banks, food or rent in lieu of money, tax refunds, gifts, lump-sum disbursements and the sale of property, house or car, etc.

Guidelines

Families or individuals in a house, apartment or mobile home in Livingston County, and whose income falls at or below the following guidelines, quoted by the New York State Department of Social Services, will be eligible for assistance by the Livingston County Weatherization Program.


Family Size
Monthly Income
Annual Income
1
2129
25548
2
2784
33408
3
3439
41268
4
4094
49128
5
4749
56988
6
5404
64848
7
5527
66324
8
5650
67800
9
5773
69296
10
5896
70752

For each extra person add: $5,616 yearly

The above guidelines are updated periodically.