How do I become a landlord?

In order to become a landlord there are a few simple steps that must be followed in order to have a unit approved and a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) made in a timely manner. The PHA makes rental subsidy payments by manual checks or direct deposit. Inspections will only be completed after Step 2 of the process outlined below.

Step 1: Listing an available unit

If a landlord wants to post a property with the PHA, they must complete the information required on www.AffordableHousing.com. Listing a unit does not constitute a contract and does not legally bind the landlord into renting a unit to a Housing Choice participant. It simply states that the landlord is aware of the program, and if contacted by the right participant, a lease agreement could be arranged. Landlords may also wish to place an advertisement in the local newspaper with the phrase “Section 8 welcome.” Please be advised that PHA staff will not steer participants to any particular landlord or unit.

Step 2: Owner screening for residents

After contacted by a program participant, the landlord should immediately start their own screening process, including background checks. The PHA only determines if a family is eligible to receive the subsidy, it is up to the landlord to determine if the family will be the right person for the unit. If an individual approaches and claims to be a recipient of the program, they should have a copy of a “VOUCHER” (English) and (Spanish).

Once, a “Request for Tenancy Approval” is submitted the PHA will provide to the prospective owner, the potential tenant’s current and prior address. If known, the PHA will also provide current and prior landlord information. When a family wants to lease a dwelling unit and at the REQUEST of the owner we will provide other information in our possession, about the family, including information about the tenancy history of family members, or about drug-trafficking by family members.

Step 3: Owner and resident complete RFTA

After a tenant is selected, they will have a form called a “REQUEST FOR TENANCY APPROVAL (English) (Spanish)” (RFTA). The RFTA is not a contract; it simply states that after a thorough landlord screening, the landlord is interested in renting to the program participant. This form must be completely and correctly filled out by the landlord and the tenant to avoid a delay in the unit being inspected. Common mistakes include not listing what type of unit needs to be inspected (i.e. house, duplex, etc, or using an incorrect zip code on the unit to be inspected.) In addition, the Tenancy Addendum (English) (Spanish), and an unexecuted lease must be submitted. After the forms are received by the PHA, an inspection is scheduled within 15 days of approval. All utilities must be on for the inspection. The unit should be “move-in” ready.

Step 4: Unit inspection and tenant move-in

If the unit is not inspected within 15 days, it will be denied and the landlord will be notified in writing. If the unit is inspected and Housing Quality Standards deficiencies are found, they must be corrected within 30 days or the request for tenancy will be denied.

If the unit passes inspection between the 16th and the 1st of the month the lease and Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract will begin on the 1st of the month.

If the unit passes inspection between the 2nd and the 15th of the month the lease and Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract will begin on the 15th of the month. If the lease begins on the 15th of the month the first month’s rent will be prorated as rent is always due on the 1st.

If a family moves into the unit before it passes the inspection, then the family is responsible for the full portion of the rent.

Step 5: Submit a copy of EXECUTED LEASE to the PHA

The PHA will process the information within three (3) to five (5) business days. Once, the portion of rent to be paid by the PHA and the tenant is calculated, the PHA will mail HAP Contracts, Landlord Certification, request a copy of proof of ownership or a property management agreement, W9, and electronic fund transfer (for direct deposit only). The initial housing assistance payment will be delay, if this information is not returned in a timely manner.