Home Maintenance Support Program
At The Advisory and Resource Center of Omaha, we believe that housing stability begins with safe, livable homes. Our Home Maintenance Support Program is designed to help preserve that stability for homeowners, housing assistance recipients, and small-scale landlords committed to maintaining quality housing.
Whether it’s managing basic repairs, addressing safety or code concerns, or learning key upkeep skills, our services provide hands-on support, referrals, and guidance to keep homes safe and functional. We help individuals and families stay housed and avoid setbacks that can threaten their long-term progress.
By supporting home maintenance, we also help strengthen neighborhoods, prevent displacement, and protect one of the most vital tools for self-sufficiency: a secure place to call home.
Who This Program Serves
Our ideal clients include:
- First-time homebuyers in homeownership programs working toward long-term stability
- Elder homeowners who may be physically or financially unable to complete basic maintenance
- Small landlords committed to keeping units safe, affordable, and in good condition
- Low- to moderate-income homeowners managing properties on limited budgets
- Working housing assistance recipients who need help meeting inspection or program compliance
In many of these situations, staying housed depends on the ability to perform or coordinate basic upkeep — sometimes required for participation in housing support programs or to prevent code violations.
Program Services
1. Maintenance Coordination & Light Repairs
We assist with essential but small repair tasks that can grow into bigger problems if left unaddressed. This includes coordinating help for things like fixing leaky faucets, replacing broken locks, patching drywall, securing handrails, or installing weather stripping.
Supports: Elder homeowners, low- to moderate-income homeowners, small-scale landlords
2. Safety & Code Readiness
We help identify and address safety concerns or minor code violations that could jeopardize housing. Services may include trip hazard removal, smoke detector checks, plumbing fixes, or making sure the home meets basic city or program standards.
Supports: Homeownership program participants, housing assistance recipients, elder homeowners
3. Inspection Preparation & Compliance
We assist clients in preparing for housing inspections, subsidy recertifications, or program compliance. Services include pre-inspection walkthroughs, punch list development, and help completing small fixes before inspection day.
Supports: Housing assistance recipients, homeownership participants, small-scale landlords
4. Referrals for Skilled Trades
For larger or more complex issues, we connect clients with licensed professionals (e.g., electricians, roofers, plumbers) who are reputable and—when possible—affordable or open to flexible payment options.
Supports: Elder homeowners, low- to moderate-income homeowners, small-scale landlords
5. Maintenance Education & DIY Support
We empower residents through education. This may include one-on-one coaching, group workshops, or printed how-to guides. Topics may cover seasonal tasks, safe water/gas shut-off, appliance care, or minor painting and patching.
Supports: First-time buyers, low- to moderate-income homeowners, small-scale landlords
6. Property Maintenance Planning
We help clients develop realistic maintenance strategies, including annual calendars, repair budgeting, prioritizing needs, and preparing for major projects like HVAC or roofing.
Supports: Elder homeowners, low- to moderate-income homeowners, homeownership participants
7. Neighborhood Strengthening Projects
We organize and support community-wide efforts like yard cleanups, painting projects, tool-sharing, or bulk trash disposal days. These promote neighborhood pride, safety, and resilience.
Supports: All client groups, especially neighborhoods vulnerable to disinvestment
8. Lawn Care & Snow Removal
We provide seasonal yard support, including lawn mowing, leaf raking, weed control, snow shoveling, and ice prevention—especially for those at risk of code citations or safety concerns.
Supports: Elder homeowners, housing assistance recipients, low- to moderate-income homeowners
How Services Are Delivered
Services are provided through a variety of channels, including:
- Internal Case management referrals
- Community workdays and volunteer mobilization
- Self-referral by eligible clients
Our role is to act as a bridge—meeting immediate needs while helping clients stay on track with housing goals and long-term self-sufficiency.
