Additional Information for Landlords

Why should I participate in the Energy Secure Homes Pilot Program?

There are a number of benefits to implementation of energy efficiency and clean energy measures in your unit. Right now, through existing MassSave, you can receive up to tens of thousands of dollars worth  of energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades at no cost. This year, Mass Save is further expanding its no-cost support to landlords who rent to low- and moderate-income tenants. There's never been a better time to participate and take advantage of the programs funded by your utility bills.
If you pay the heating bills for your unit, the Mass Save energy efficiency retrofits can help reduce your operating costs. Mass Save may pay for replacing old inefficient appliances, replacing single-pane windows with new windows, addressing lingering health and safety issues like knob-and-tube wiring and vermiculite insulation, and electrical wiring upgrades. Mass Save is a great way to both improve the efficiency of your building and modernize it at the same time! The Mass Save-funded energy efficiency measures could reduce energy costs to you and/or your tenants by as much as 20%

Who is eligible to participate in the Pilot Program?

Landlords who:

• Already participate in the Section 8 HCV Program; and 

• Own a 1-4 unit building in which at least half of the units are rented out to Section 8 HCV tenants or other low-income residents below 60% of state median income 

Priority will be given to landlords and tenants with buildings in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan and that use oil and electric resistance heating. 

What energy upgrades might be included?

No-cost upgrades will be identified after MassSave conducts an assessment of your building. These upgrades may include: 

• Insulation 

• Air sealing 

• New energy efficient windows 

• Electric stove or induction stove* 

• Heat pumps 

• Heat pump water heaters 

• Pre-weatherization or electrification barrier remediation (e.g. knob and tube wiring, vermiculite insulation, electrical upgrades) 

• Inefficient appliance replacement 

*Electric stoves may not be fully covered through the MassSave Income Eligible program. 

How can I participate in the program?

If you’re interested in participating, please complete this interest form. A BHA pilot program administrator will then reach out to you to conduct a brief phone screen to confirm eligibility. If you have questions about participation or eligibility, please email energysecurehomes@bostonhousing.org

Where can I learn more?

An info session for interested landlords is scheduled for April 17th at 11:00 AM via Zoom. Register here to attend. 
A second info session for interested tenants will be scheduled for mid-April/May. More details to come.