Section 8 Landlord Questions
What happens if I do not make the required repairs from an annual inspection?
If the issues are not remedied within the required 30 days, the Housing Authority will withhold future payments until the repairs have been completed. If for some reason a repair will require more than 30 days to correct, please contact the Housing Authority to discuss options.
What happens if my property fails an annual inspection?
Just like with the initial inspection, you will have thirty days to remedy any issues found during the annual inspection. Once the repairs have been completed, you must notify the Housing Authority so that a re-inspection may be scheduled.
What is an annual re-inspection?
The Housing Authority is required to perform a yearly re-inspection for every Section 8 participant. This includes gathering updated income information and paperwork from the tenant. You will receive notice whether there is a change to tenants rent payment to you or if it will remain the same. There will also be an annual HQS inspection similar to the initial inspection. You and the tenant will receive notice of the property passing the inspection or reasons why it failed to pass and what needs done to correct the issues.
Will the Housing Authority reimburse for unpaid rent or damages from a tenant?
No, the Housing Authority cannot reimburse landlords for damages or unpaid rent. You must go through the proper legal channels to recover your damages. If a tenant does owe for rent or damages after move out, please notify the Housing Authority as it is cause to potentially remove a tenant from the Section 8 program.
Can I raise the rent amount for a Section 8 property?
Yes, as long as you follow the proper guidelines. Rent amounts can only be adjusted on the anniversary date of the lease/HAP contract start date. The tenant and Housing Authority must receive 60 day written notice of a rent increase, and the landlord must provide the Housing Authority with a justification/reason for the increase in rent.
Can I have multiple properties in the Section 8 program?
Yes, the Housing Authority has several landlords with multiple properties in the program.
What happens if a Section 8 tenant moves out?
If a Section 8 tenant moves out of your property without proper notice, then you must contact the Housing Authority immediately. Section 8 participants are required to provide all landlords and the Housing Authority with a minimum of 30 days written notice of intent to vacate and in accordance with the lease agreement signed with the landlord.
Can I evict a Section 8 participant tenant?
Yes, Section 8 tenants can be evicted just like any other tenant. You must go through the eviction process according to local regulations.
Can I charge a Section 8 tenant for damages?
Yes, Section 8 tenants should be accountable for damages within the parameters of your lease agreement.
Can I charge a late fee to Section 8 tenants?
Yes, Section 8 tenants should make their payments in accordance with your standards and lease agreement and can be charged a late fee, provided it is not an extraordinary amount.
