In order to protect and preserve the integrity of the genome, eukaryotic cells have developed accurate DNA repair pathways involving a coordinated network of DNA repair and epigenetic factors. The DNA damage response has to proceed in the context of chromatin, a packaged and compact structure that is flexible enough to regulate the accession of the DNA repair machinery to DNA-damaged sites. Chromatin modifications and ATP-remodeling activities are both necessary to ensure efficient DNA repair. Here we review the current progress of research into the importance of chromatin modifications and the ATP-remodeling complex to the DNA damage response, with respect to the sensing and signaling of DNA lesions, DNA repair and the processes that restore chromatin structure.