Weatherization Assistance Program (Rhode Island)
Last updated August 2026
Rhode Island's Weatherization Assistance Program, WAP, makes free whole-house energy-efficiency improvements that lower heating bills for good. It helps income-eligible households, and a household that qualifies for LIHEAP energy assistance also qualifies for weatherization. Applications run through your local Community Action Program agency, the same agencies that take energy assistance applications, and the RI Office of Energy Resources coordinates the program at 401-574-9117.
The work stays with the home, so the savings repeat. Services can include installing insulation, reducing drafts, and adding proper ventilation. Crews also add health and safety measures, including installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, so the home is safer as well as cheaper to heat.
Renters are included, which surprises many people. Both homeowners and renters can get weatherization, and a renter needs landlord approval. So if you rent, do not assume the program is only for owners.
Eligibility follows the energy assistance rules. Because WAP uses the same income test as LIHEAP, the current year's limits of 60 percent of state median income apply, which run from $42,252 a year for a household of one to $81,254 for a household of four. A household already getting energy assistance is generally income-eligible.
The order of steps matters. To get weatherization, apply for LIHEAP first at your local Community Action agency. The agency provides safe intake locations, can arrange for an older adult or a person with a disability to apply at an intake site, and has procedures for people who do not speak English or who have literacy needs.
Weatherization pairs well with other help. Use LIHEAP for this season's bill while the home is fixed for the long run, and dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds if a bill is due before the work is scheduled.
Phone 401-574-9117
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-eligible households; renters and homeowners both qualify
- Households already receiving energy assistance are generally income-eligible, and priority goes to older adults, people with disabilities, and families with children
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Contact your local Community Action Program agency, or call the Office of Energy Resources at 401-574-9117.
- 2
Apply for LIHEAP first, since weatherization follows the same eligibility.
- 3
Confirm your household income is within the 60 percent of state median income limit.
- 4
If you rent, get your landlord's approval before the work is scheduled.
- 5
Mention any older, disabled, or child household members so the agency can plan intake.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for weatherization in Rhode Island?
Income-eligible households. A household that qualifies for LIHEAP qualifies for weatherization, and the income limit follows LIHEAP at 60 percent of state median income.
Can renters get it?
Yes. Both homeowners and renters qualify, and a renter needs landlord approval.
What does it include?
Whole-house work such as insulation, draft reduction, and proper ventilation, plus health and safety steps like installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
How do I apply?
Apply for LIHEAP first at your local Community Action agency, since weatherization follows the same eligibility. You can also call the Office of Energy Resources at 401-574-9117.
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