Boost Your Home’s Efficiency with the Merriam Grant Program
Are you a Merriam, Kansas, resident looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency? The Merriam Grant Program offers a fantastic opportunity to enhance your property’s sustainability and reduce energy costs. One of the best ways to utilize this grant is by investing in spray foam insulation, which complies with the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Applications for this grant will be accepted starting January 2, 2024.
Understanding the Merriam Grant Program
The Residential Sustainability Grant is designed to help Merriam residents and property owners install energy-saving systems. These include energy-efficient windows and doors, insulation, solar and wind power, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and geothermal heating and cooling. Merriam is committed to promoting sustainable living and supporting homeowners in making eco-friendly upgrades.
Why Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a top choice for homeowners seeking to maximize energy efficiency. It offers superior thermal resistance, reducing energy consumption and enhancing home comfort. When insulating your home, it’s essential to meet the 2018 IECC standards to ensure the highest levels of efficiency.
Grant Details and Benefits
The Merriam Grant Program provides a 30 percent reimbursement for energy-saving improvements upon completion, with a minimum investment of $2,000 by the property owner. The reimbursement ranges from a minimum of $600 to a maximum of $3,000. All Merriam residents who do not live in an apartment are eligible to apply.
Eligible improvements include:
- Home Energy Audit (blower door audit) by a certified auditor
- Solar power
- Wind power
- Energy-efficient HVAC and/or water heater
- Energy-efficient windows and/or doors
- Insulation
- Geothermal heating and cooling
- Duct sealing
Energy-saving improvements must meet the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Specifications for these improvements are provided on a separate sheet.
Grant Process for Spray Foam Insulation
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
- The program provides a 30 percent reimbursement for energy-saving improvements.
- Property owners must invest a minimum of $2,000.
- Reimbursement amounts range from $600 to $3,000.
- Eligible improvements must meet the 2018 IECC specifications.
- Contractors must have a Merriam Occupational license and, if applicable, a Johnson County Contractors License.
- Submit work bids and project specification sheets before application approval.
- Approved projects must begin within 120 days.
- Grant funds will be allocated until the $65,000 limit is reached, after which a waiting list will be created.
You can find a full list of requirements by clicking here.
Step 2: Gather Your Information
- Ensure you are current on all property taxes.
- Provide proof of property insurance.
- Obtain contractor bids or estimates.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Submit bids before application approval. Work must not start until the application is approved.
- Complete the work by September 16.
- City staff will perform a post-project inspection to verify work completion and code compliance.
Apply online here. If you’d like to apply in person, download the application and bring all documents to the Planning window inside Merriam City Hall.
Step 4: City Contact
City staff will contact the applicant to discuss the project, take photos, and inform if permits are required.
Step 5: Reimbursement
- The City will reimburse applicants after receiving at least $2,000 in receipts.
- A post-project inspection will be performed to verify project completion.
- No exterior code violations should be present.
- Recipients must complete a W-9 Form.
The City can modify or eliminate this program without prior notice. State and local grants are typically taxable for federal income purposes. The City will report the grant to the IRS and send you a Federal IRS Form 1099 if awarded. Consult a tax professional for any questions about possible tax liability.
You can contact the Merriam Neighborhood Services Manager, David Easley, at:
Phone: 913-322-5526
Send an Email
Merriam City Hall:
Community Development
9001 W. 62nd St.
Merriam, KS 66202
Enhancing your home with spray foam insulation through the Merriam Grant Program is a smart investment in your property’s energy efficiency and sustainability. Apply today to take advantage of this valuable opportunity!
