A lock that doesn’t catch. A cracked floor tile you keep tripping on. A tub with nothing to hold onto. These small problems can become serious safety risks for older New Yorkers.
Met Council’s SenioRepair program helps fix problems like these for free. It’s designed for New York City residents age 60 and older who demonstrate financial need.
There’s no charge for repairs or materials through this program. Here’s what you need to know.
What Repairs Does SenioRepair Cover?
Met Council’s Senior Repair program, also known as SenioRepair, provides minor repairs that help older adults stay safe and independent in their homes.
Services may include:
- Grab bars: Installing grab bars to make bathrooms safer.
- Locks: Changing locks that are broken or need replacement.
- Flooring: Repairing broken floor tiles that could cause someone to trip.
- Doorknobs: Replacing damaged or difficult-to-use doorknobs.
- Window screens: Installing screens where they’re needed.
Over the years, the program has also helped with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, leaky faucets, drains and minor electrical repairs.
Repairs must be inside the home. SenioRepair isn’t intended for major renovations or large construction projects.
The exact services available depend on your repair needs and the program’s current capacity.
Does SenioRepair Cost Anything?
No. SenioRepair provides eligible repairs free of charge, including labor and materials.
You don’t have to pay for the repair worker or the materials used for approved work.
However, that doesn’t mean every repair request will be accepted. Met Council determines which repairs qualify and whether services are available.
You can also ask whether there are limits on the number of repair visits you may receive.
Who Qualifies for SenioRepair?
According to a 2026 announcement from the New York State Senate, SenioRepair serves older adults who meet these requirements:
- Age: You must be 60 or older.
- Location: You must live in New York City.
- Financial need: You must demonstrate financial need.
The program focuses on small repairs that help older adults remain safely in their homes.
If you rent, ask whether your landlord needs to approve the work before repairs can begin.
Met Council can explain its current eligibility requirements and whether your repair request qualifies.
How Do You Apply?
Start by contacting Met Council through its Senior Services page.
Explain that you’re interested in SenioRepair and describe the problem in your home.
For example, you might need a grab bar installed, a broken lock replaced or a loose floor tile repaired.
Ask the staff:
- Whether you qualify based on your age, residence and financial situation.
- Whether your specific repair is covered.
- Whether you need permission from your landlord.
- How to request service and whether there’s a waiting list.
You can also contact NYC311 and ask about home repair assistance for seniors.
The city’s Home Repair Assistance for Seniors page identifies Met Council and the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens as organizations that provide minor home repair services.
This is a useful alternative if you’re unsure which organization serves your neighborhood or can handle the repair you need.
What Repairs Aren’t Covered?
NYC’s senior home repair assistance programs generally focus on smaller jobs rather than major renovations.
According to NYC311, services generally do not include:
- Major remodeling or renovations
- Installing ramps
- Roof repairs
- Boiler or furnace repairs
- Fixing household appliances
- Painting entire rooms
Other work, such as installing doors, toilets, ceiling fans or air conditioners, may also be excluded under the city’s general program guidelines.
However, the services offered can differ between organizations. For example, New York Foundation for Senior Citizens lists some services that aren’t included in NYC311’s general description.
If you’re unsure whether a repair qualifies, ask the provider before assuming it isn’t covered.
Are There Other Free Home Repair Programs in NYC?
Yes. If Met Council can’t help with your repair, another organization may have options.
One important alternative is the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens (NYFSC).
Its Minor Home Repairs and Safety Audit Program serves eligible older adults across all five New York City boroughs.
The program may help with:
- Minor plumbing and carpentry repairs
- Locks, steps and handrails
- Minor electrical work
- Weatherization and other home safety improvements
NYFSC generally serves adults age 60 and older with limited incomes. Eligible homeowners may include people who own private homes, condominiums or co-ops.
Renters may also qualify if they have their landlord’s consent and have first tried to get the landlord to make the necessary repairs.
NYFSC offers free repair services, although participants may be responsible for certain materials. Ask about any potential costs before agreeing to work.
You can also ask NYC311 about other home repair resources, including programs for homeowners who need more extensive assistance.
What If Someone Has Stolen Money From You?
Met Council also operates an Elder Abuse Prevention Project, which is separate from SenioRepair.
This program helps older adults who have experienced abuse or financial exploitation.
Depending on the situation and available assistance, it may help replace money needed for rent, utilities or food. It may also provide assistance with changing locks or moving expenses when safety is a concern.
The project can also help older adults navigate services and seek protection after financial exploitation.
You can learn more through Met Council’s Senior Services page.
Relief Recap
Met Council’s SenioRepair program offers free minor home repairs, including labor and materials, to eligible New York City residents age 60 and older who demonstrate financial need.
Help may include grab bars, lock changes, broken floor tiles, doorknobs and other small repairs inside the home. Major renovations generally aren’t covered, and services depend on eligibility and availability.
If something in your home is becoming unsafe, contact Met Council to ask about SenioRepair.
If the program can’t help, NYC311 and the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens are good places to ask about other repair options.
