SHILA is an independent, nonprofit, community-based lending organization focused on financing home renovations that promote energy efficiency, clean energy alternatives, storm protection, water conservation, and disability products. SHILA provides homeowners with building science expertise, project management, and access to low-cost capital to help identify and finance sustainable home improvement projects.

No. SHILA does not charge any application or annual fees to become an Approved Contractor.

No. SHILA does not charge contractors any fees for using SHILA financing.

SHILA is an alternative financing source for clients who may not qualify for a traditional loan at a bank or through financing programs established through the contractor’s company.

SHILA gives opportunities to clients who may not qualify for the financing offered by the contractor or traditional banks. As an alternative financing source, more clients may be approved rather than denied. This will increase sales.

Clients can apply by visiting our online application or by contacting us.

Complete the contractor application or contact us.

Once a loan is approved and closed, the contractor receives an email with an Notice to Proceed (NTP), and the work can then commence. Once the installation is complete and inspected (if applicable), the contractor submits the final paperwork to SHILA and the payment process begins. Payments are processed on Wednesdays. Refer to the payment schedule provided by the Residential for more information. Contractors may receive a check in the mail or, in order to receive payments quicker, submit a Direct Deposit Authorization form to SHILA.

Yes, but an application for the Contractor Advance Financing has to be completed, submitted, and approved by SHILA management. Specific terms apply. Contact the SHILA office for more details.

SHILA is certified to lend in Arizona.

No. Anyone can apply for financing as long as they own the home, have provable income, are current on property taxes, and have disposable income to pay back the loan.

SHILA finances over two dozen types of improvements promoting energy efficiency, clean energy alternatives, storm protection, water conservation, and disability products. Some of the top financed products include, but are not limited to: air conditioners, insulation, roofs, doors, windows, solar water heaters, solar PV, weatherization, and much more.

Interest Rates range from 5% – 9.5%. *Interest rates depend on available funding and the terms set by SHILA’s funders.

The process to become approved can take 24hrs to a week. It all depends on the client's response, requested and/or required document submission, and information provided.

Qualifications to apply:

1. Must be the, or one of the homeowner(s)
2. Must be current on property taxes
3. Must have provable income. (wages, retirement, disability, etc.)
4. Must be able to have the disposable income to pay back a loan

SHILA accepts all applications regardless of credit. A co-signer may be required based on credit history or the type of product being financed. A full evaluation is conducted by the underwriting team, and a final decision is made based on a combination of factors.

1. No, not from SHILA.
2. SHILA does, however, have a Referral Agreement Program that SHILA Approved Contractors can become a part of. This is a service that SHILA provides.
3. If you’d like more detailed information, please contact the SHILA office.