FAQ

In Georgia, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) administers the HCV Program across 149 of the state's 159 counties through regional offices. The remaining 10 counties are managed by their respective local housing authorities. This structure ensures statewide accessibility, though specific policies and procedures may vary between jurisdictions. Here are the housing authorities for the specified counties in Georgia that do not fall under DCA, along with their websites: Fulton County: Housing Authority of Fulton County (HAFC) - https://hafc.org/ City of Atlanta: Atlanta Housing Authority (AHA) - https://www.atlantahousing.org/ Cobb County: Housing Authority of the City of Marietta - https://www.mariettahousingauthority.org/ DeKalb County: Housing Authority of DeKalb County (HADC) - https://www.dekalbhousing.org/ Clayton County: Housing Authority of Clayton County (HACC) - https://haccgeorgia.org/ Please note that the Housing Authority of Clayton County does not administer public housing or Section 8 housing vouchers. These services are managed by the Jonesboro Housing Authority (JHA) , which can be reached at 770.478.7282. HACC Georgia For more information on the Housing Choice Voucher Program in Georgia, you can visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website: https://dca.georgia.gov/housing-choice-voucher/housing-choice-voucher

The HCV Program, formerly known as Section 8, is a federal initiative that provides rental assistance to eligible low-income households, enabling them to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market

Participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program as a landlord/vendor offers several key benefits for property owners: Guaranteed Rental Payments: A significant portion of the rent is paid directly by the housing authority, acting as a government guarantor, ensuring consistent and reliable income for landlords. Access to a Pre-Qualified Tenant Pool: The program connects property owners with a steady stream of tenants who have been approved for rental assistance, simplifying the leasing process. Potential Tax Advantages: Depending on local regulations, participation in the program may provide certain tax benefits for property owners offering affordable housing. Support for Housing Needs: By joining the program, landlords contribute to addressing the housing needs of their community, providing safe and affordable homes to families in need. Reduced Vacancy Risks: With a large pool of eligible participants actively seeking housing, landlords often experience shorter vacancy periods between leases. These benefits make the HCV Program a rewarding experience for property owners looking to secure dependable rental income while supporting affordable housing initiatives.

Becoming a landlord in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program involves a straightforward process that connects you with a pool of pre-qualified tenants while providing guaranteed rental income. Here’s how to get started: 1. Market Your Property to Voucher Holders - Advertise your property through local housing authorities or their online platforms, such as the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) rental property listing service. - Clearly state in your marketing materials that you accept HCV participants to attract eligible renters. 2. Complete and Submit a Landlord Information Packet - Obtain the Landlord Information Packet from your local housing authority. This packet includes important forms, such as the Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA), which is completed after you identify a potential tenant. - The packet will also outline key responsibilities, the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract, and the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) your property must meet. 3. Screen and Select Tenants - You are responsible for screening potential tenants to ensure they meet your property’s criteria, as housing authorities do not perform tenant suitability checks. - Review rental history, conduct credit checks, and verify references as you would for any other tenant, keeping fair housing laws in mind. 4. Submit the RTA Form - Once you’ve selected a tenant, complete the RTA form in collaboration with the tenant and submit it to the housing authority. This form initiates the property approval process. 5. Prepare for the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection - Ensure your property is ready for inspection by addressing any potential safety or maintenance issues. The housing authority will assess whether your property meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards. A copy of the inspection checklist is available on your local PHA website. - Activate utilities and ensure the property is clean and fully functional before the inspection. 6. Sign the Lease and HAP Contract - After the property passes the inspection and the rent is deemed reasonable, you’ll sign a lease agreement with the tenant and a HAP contract with the housing authority. The HAP contract ensures that the housing authority will pay a portion of the tenant’s rent directly to you. 7. Receive Guaranteed Payments - Once the HAP contract is active, you’ll begin receiving consistent rental payments from the housing authority, along with the tenant’s portion of the rent. **Contact Me for Support** If you’re interested in participating in the HCV Program contact me at 404-692-1188 for personalized assistance. I offer consultations and can assist in marketing your property to HCV Participants/tenants, navigating the required paperwork, and listing you as a preferred vendor.

The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract is a binding agreement between the housing authority and the landlord participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. This contract outlines the terms under which the housing authority will provide rental assistance on behalf of the tenant and specifies the responsibilities of both parties to ensure compliance with program regulations. Benefits of the HAP Contract for Landlords 1. Guaranteed Payment: The housing authority acts as a reliable guarantor for a portion of the rent, significantly reducing financial risks associated with tenant non-payment. 2. Streamlined Communication: The contract provides a clear framework for interactions between landlords and the housing authority, simplifying processes like inspections, rent adjustments, and tenant transitions. 3. Compliance Support: Regular inspections and program oversight help landlords maintain property standards, ensuring compliance with state and federal housing regulations.

Landlords are responsible for screening tenants using their criteria, provided it complies with fair housing laws. The PHA does not screen tenants for suitability.

Tenants are responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear. Landlords can address such issues by enforcing the lease terms, retaining the security deposit, and requiring tenants to maintain liability renters insurance. Some Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) provide resources for landlords to recover damages through a claim submission process, though this option is not universally available. It’s essential to contact your local housing authority for specific details on available support.

Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections are designed to ensure rental properties meet federal safety, health, and quality guidelines. These inspections, conducted by the local housing authority, confirm that the property is safe, sanitary, and in good condition for tenants. For landlords, HQS inspections provide valuable oversight by identifying potential maintenance issues early, helping to preserve the property’s condition and value over time. By ensuring compliance with these standards, landlords gain confidence that their property meets regulatory requirements and attracts responsible tenants by promoting a high standard of living.

Yes, landlords participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program can request a rent increase, but it is subject to specific conditions and procedures. Rent increases are allowed only after the initial lease term has ended, and the request must comply with federal and local housing authority guidelines.

The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract ends when the tenant vacates the unit. Landlords have the option to lease the property to another Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participant or a private-market tenant.

Landlords can access resources and support from their local Public Housing Authority (PHA), the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), and HUD's landlord information center. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Housing Choice Voucher Program provides comprehensive information for landlords, including program guidelines, application procedures, and contact details. HUD's Landlord Resources offer guidance on the Housing Choice Voucher Program, including inspection standards, best practices, and policy updates.