CLEAR-WIN

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Free Window Replacement

The CLEAR-WIN program is a State of Illinois-funded window replacement program to remove a major source of lead dust from the home for eligible Englewood and West Englewood residents.

Remove a Major Source of Lead Dust From Your Home

Older houses and apartments built before 1978 may have paint that contains high levels of lead. Lead from paint chips and dust can pose serious health hazards, especially for children.

Windows and window frames in homes can be a major source of lead hazards for children. Opening a window that has worn paint on and around the window frame can create dust that is not safe when consumed or inhaled.

Energy Efficient Windows
The CLEAR-WIN program uses energy efficient windows manufactured in Illinois. The windows feature the latest technology in energy efficiency. New windows may also lower your energy bills by reducing the amount of heated or cooled air that escapes from your home.

Improve Year-Round Comfort
New windows that are tightly sealed into frames will prevent drafts that can lead to an uncomfortable home. This will help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Beautify Your Home or Building
New windows will improve the look of your home or building as well as increase its value. The CLEAR-WIN program is an opportunity to invest in your property at no cost.

Who is Eligible for the CLEAR-WIN Program

Both homeowners and landlords of single-family homes or buildings of up to 6 units located in Englewood and West Englewood are eligible for the CLEAR-WIN Program.

For single-family homeowners and owner-occupied units, the owner’s annual household income must meet the following household income requirements:

Household Income Limit by Family Size*

1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people
$26,200 $29,950 $33,700 $37,400 $40,400 $43,400 $46,400 $49,400

*Household income limits are based on 50% of the 2010 – 2011 Area Median Income for Chicago.

For rental units, the rents must meet the following maximum rent requirements:

Maximum Eligibility Rents+ (per month)

1 person 2 people 3 people 4 people 5 people 6 people 7 people 8 people
$658 $751 $845 $939 $1,015 $1,090 $1,165 $1,240

+ Maximum eligible rents are calculated based on 30% of the household income limit listed above and divided over 12 months.

Preference is given to owners that meet the following additional criteria:

  • Households occupying the units have children age 6 or under present in the home.
  • Single-family home has 2 or more bedrooms, or building units have 2 or more bedrooms.
  • Property does not have an existing mitigation order with the City of Chicago.
  • Property was built prior to 1960, with higher preference for buildings built before 1940.
  • Owner’s income or tenant rents are within the limits listed below.

How the CLEAR-WIN Program Works

1. Fill out a CLEAR-WIN application form and return it to CNT Energy, the CLEAR-WIN program administrator in Chicago.

2. CNT Energy staff will contact you to schedule a home visit to verify the building and unit size(s) and number of windows eligible for replacement.

3. Following the home visit, your application will be scored and prioritized by the above criteria.

4. CNT Energy will work with accepted applicants to schedule a window installation contractor to come to your home and measure all windows eligible for replacement. This ensures
the accuracy of the window measurements and installations.

5. The same contractor will perform window installations and additional minor repairs that promote lead-based paint control.

6. Following installation, a clearance test is performed to ensure no lead hazards were created by the window installations and minor repairs.

7. Installations should be completed within 6 weeks of program acceptance.

Restrictions
The property owner must agree to continue to rent to the same tenant or other low-income tenant for a period of not less than 5 years following completion of the work. Failure to comply with the grant conditions may result in repayment of grant funds. Additional restrictions apply. See program application for details.

For more information:
Contact us at (773) 269-4037 or info@cntenergy.org.

Information on the importance of lead safety and lead paint removal provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.