The need for safe, affordable subsidized housing is at an all-time high, making it a focus for communities nationwide. Yet, our ideas about what constitutes a safe, decent place to live have changed. Modern subsidized housing is more than a roof over your head that meets the bare minimum standards. These days, low-cost housing now affords the dignity of well-designed homes with eco-conscious amenities. Let’s walk through some of the ways landlords are updating properties to offer families more.
Importance of Section 8 Quality Standards
The goal of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, also known as Section 8, is to provide “decent, safe, and sanitary” housing at an affordable cost to low-income families. Housing Quality Standards help HUD and local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) accomplish that goal by establishing the minimum quality standard to ensure the health and safety of participants. That’s why all housing units must meet these quality standards to participate in the HCV program.
Modern Housing Project Ideas
When you think about what makes a home modern, it’s more than the latest decor, materials, and color schemes. It’s also about including amenities that make the home safer and more efficient. More and more modern subsidized housing incorporates eco-conscious elements because energy usage is a priority for everyone. Plus, energy and utility costs can add significantly to monthly budgets. But, with a few modern amenities, those costs can be contained.
Certainly, more major renovations can be made to update insulation, roofing, and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption. But, there are also lower-cost upgrades that can have a big impact on efficiency, safety, and overall comfort. Here are a few ways landlords are renovating properties to be more modern and efficient.
Water Heaters
According to the Department of Energy, heating water is the second-largest expense in our homes, accounting for 20% of household energy use. That’s why picking the right water heater is an important decision. It not only serves the comfort needs of those living in the home but also helps determine how much of a monthly budget is spent on energy.
Lighting
Energy-efficient lighting has come a long way in recent years with options that can last as long as you may live in a home. Today’s options offer great light quality while reducing energy consumption in nearly every fixture. Plus, energy-efficient lighting has become less costly in recent years, making it attainable to change bulbs throughout a home without breaking the bank.
Windows
Replacing old windows is another top renovation when it comes to reducing energy use. Not only is energy wasted when warm or cooled air leaks out of old, inefficient windows, but also every time someone decides to alter the thermostat when they’re too hot or cold. Modern, ENERGY STAR-rated windows can have a big impact on overall energy usage.
Appliances
Upgrading old appliances is another smart way to modernize public housing. According to Consumer Reports, appliances represent the third-largest energy spend, at 9% of your energy bill. Having an energy-efficient refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher can give residents the required amenities while cutting energy bills substantially throughout the year.
Achieving Modern Affordable Housing with PMHA
Reach out to learn more about PMHA’s programs or contact us if you have questions, comments, or requests.