One of Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority’s (PMHA) goals is to give Section 8 participants access to the housing they need to overcome obstacles. Achieving that objective means working hard to support Section 8 landlords, so we can work productively together and achieve our respective goals.
Before we detail ways PMHA supports Section 8 landlords, let’s review the benefits of participating in the program.
Why Be a Section 8 Landlord?
The Section 8 voucher program helps low-income families access safe, affordable housing. From that standpoint, Section 8 landlords provide an essential community service. Above and beyond generating income, their rental properties help families achieve a measure of security to achieve their goals. With a participant’s prosperity also comes enhanced community stability.
How PMHA Incentivizes Landlords
Over 600 private property owners and management agents currently work with PMHA’s Section 8 department to provide privately owned and operated housing to over 1,800 low-income households throughout Portage County. What we’re working toward at PMHA is a way for all citizens in our community to thrive. And that’s why we strive to support Section 8 landlords whenever opportunity allows.
Landlords receive consistent and timely payments each month via direct deposits. PMHA also helps Section 8 landlords by educating participants about available properties. Plus, there are free listing resources available. If you have a property that you believe would benefit from participating in the program, here are some other benefits to consider:
New & Existing Landlord Incentives
PMHA offers a one-time incentive payment of $1,000.00 to new landlords, upon the execution of a new Section 8 contract for a Moving to Work (MTW) Section 8 participant. A “new landlord” would be defined as a landlord who has not rented to a voucher participant within the past 12 months.
We also have a one-time $500.00 incentive payment to existing landlords who execute a new Section 8 contract for an MTW Section 8 participant. An “existing landlord” would be defined as a landlord who has rented to a tenant-based voucher participant at any time within the past 12 months.
Limited Damage Claims
PMHA offers a limited damage claim (not to exceed one month’s contract rent) in cases where a Section 8 tenant causes damage to the unit that exceeds the security deposit. The damage claim is verified by a special inspection conducted by a PMHA within 30 calendar days of the participant’s move-out date.
Rent Affordability Incentive
PMHA provides a one-time rent affordability payment when rent must be reduced to be affordable for the Section 8 participant. “Affordable” would be defined as an initial rent burden of no more than 50% of the household’s monthly income.
Hold Tenants Accountable
PMHA spends a great deal of time educating participants on what is expected of them as tenants. We also ensure tenants hold up their end of the contract and do what is required—pay rent on time, keep the property clean and safe, communicate any issues the landlord needs to be aware of, etc. Anyone who doesn’t live up to their end of the bargain risks termination from the program.
Become A Section 8 Landlord With PMHA
If you want to become a Section 8 landlord, it’s critical to start by understanding the legal requirements of landlord/tenant relationships in Ohio. In addition, review PMHA’s information packet for landlords, which provides details on how the program works for Portage County participants.
PMHA also has quarterly landlord orientation sessions, where you can get educated on various topics such as inspections, regulations, and payment information. If you have any questions, please contact our office. To stay informed about landlord events and other PMHA information, please follow us on our social media platforms.