Amidst the ever-changing property rates in the country, finding affordable housing can require considerable time and effort. Fortunately, there is hope for low-income families in the form of government programs that can reduce housing costs. One such option is the Section 8 program, which is overseen by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Knowing a few details regarding the Section 8 vouchers can help those applying for the program make an informed decision.
Functions of the HUD Section 8 program
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, which is also called the Section 8 program, is a rent assistance initiative curated by the government. Through this program, the government aims to provide financial aid to low-income families, disabled individuals, and seniors, enabling them to access safe and decent housing. This program provides assistance in the form of vouchers, which essentially subsidize rent. Basically, a family that has qualified for this program does not have to pay complete rent for their housing. They are required to contribute only 30% to 40% of their income towards rent, with the remaining amount covered by the government and paid directly to the landlord. Oversight and funding for the Section 8 program are provided by the HUD, while the vouchers are issued by local public housing agencies or PHAs.
Housing quality requirements for HUD Section 8
The Section 8 program offers individuals the flexibility to select the rental property that best suits their requirements, whether it’s a single-family home, a townhouse, or an apartment. That said, it is important to note that the chosen property must meet specific criteria known as Housing Quality Standards (HQS), which cover aspects of its safety, cleanliness, and convenience. These standards are set by the HUD to ensure that the properties meet certain quality requirements before individuals apply for a Section 8 voucher.
A functional kitchen
One of the requirements for HUD Section 8 homes is that the property must have a functional kitchen. This means that the kitchen should be fully equipped with working equipment such as a refrigerator, an oven, and a kitchen sink. Basically, it should have all the items required to prepare food. Additionally, the kitchen must have a proper waste disposal system.
Adequate space
In order to qualify for Section 8 vouchers, the rental house must have enough space to accommodate a whole family. It should have at least one kitchen, a living room, and a bathroom, as well as enough bedrooms to house all the family members.
Sanitary bathrooms
The residence must also include a bathroom that meets specific sanitation standards. This means the bathroom must be a separate room with fully functioning toilet facilities and a fully operational shower or bathtub.
Safety
According to HQS, the house should feature doors and windows that can be properly locked and a designated fire exit. Additionally, the house should be devoid of hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, sewer gas, fuel gas, dust, and other potentially harmful pollutants.
Temperature
The house should have a proper thermal system that can provide adequate insulation as per requirements.
Utilities
To be eligible for Section 8 vouchers, the house must be equipped with functional lights and sufficient electrical sources for occupants to use essential appliances. Besides that, it should have a proper water supply that is free from any form of contaminants.
Structural integrity
The house must be free of any structural defects, i.e., the ceiling, walls, and floor should be in good condition.
Eligibility criteria for HUD Section 8
To be eligible for a Section 8 voucher, one would have to meet certain requirements.
Income
A family’s income must be below 50% of the average income in their region. It is important to note that 75% of Section 8 vouchers are reserved for families who have incomes lower than 30% of the average income of their area.
Citizenship status
Individuals need to be official citizens of the country or have an eligible immigration status to qualify for Section 8 vouchers.
Background check
Applicants are also required to undergo a background check. In this process, authorities will examine whether the individual has any prior criminal conviction or history of being evicted from rental properties. If there’s been such an eviction from public housing, one would not qualify for this voucher.
Apart from these factors, one’s family size can also impact their eligibility for a Section 8 voucher.
Application process
After meeting all the eligibility criteria for the program, one can proceed to apply for a Section 8 voucher.
Approach the local public housing agency
One can simply visit their local public housing agency or contact their local HUD office to get some help with the application process.
Get on the waitlist
After one informs the local PHA about their interest in the voucher, one will be added to the waiting list. Approval may take several weeks or months. During this time, one must regularly check their mail and answer phone calls to avoid missing any communication from the agency.
Complete paperwork
Once the application is approved for the housing voucher, one must carefully review all the paperwork and ensure that it is completed accurately and submitted before the deadline. Once the process is done, one can begin looking for a suitable housing unit that complies with the HQS outlined in the program guidelines.