DISCLAIMER:

The information provided in this document is not to be interpreted as providing legal advice, but is intended to provide guidance for frequently asked questions. The landlord is strongly encouraged to seek advice from an attorney who is experienced in landlord/tenant matters.

 

HCVP Landlord Incentive FAQ

Do I have to rent a unit to an HABC HCV program participant to qualify for the incentive?

Yes, in order to qualify for a leasing incentive, the unit must be leased to an HABC HCV program participant who has a valid Housing Choice Voucher.

How do I request an incentive payment?

HABC will automatically apply any incentive for which all criteria have been met.

When will I receive my incentive payment?

Except where noted, incentives are paid after execution of a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract between the owner and HABC. Incentives will be received by owners within 30 days after the first HAP is paid.

How will HABC notify me on the outcome of my incentive payment?

Within 30 days after the first HAP is paid, you will receive your incentive payment.

Can I can qualify for multiple incentives on the same unit?

Yes. However, the maximum incentive payment for any given unit or owner is $1,500.

What is an Opportunity Neighborhood and how do I know if my unit is in an Opportunity Neighborhood?

An Opportunity Neighborhood is a submarket which has been identified as having strong or sound opportunity based on an HABC commissioned study reflecting key indicators of opportunity including, poverty rate, school quality index, crime, diversity, transportation access and labor market conditions. HABC has posted a map on its website which identifies Opportunity Neighborhoods.

What is the qualification for a new unit to the HCV program?

A new unit refers to a unit which has never been leased under HABC’s HCV program or was last leased under HABC’s HCV program five or more years ago.

Who verifies that the unit is a new unit to the HCV program?

HABC will review its leasing records to determine if the unit qualifies as a new unit to the HCV program.

What is the qualification for a new owner?

A new owner is an owner who has never leased a unit under HABC’s HCV program or who had last leased a unit under HABC’s HCV program five or more years ago.

Who verifies that the owner is in fact a new owner to the HCV program?

HABC will review its owner records to determine if the owner qualifies as a new owner to the HCV program.

How does HABC define a new accessible unit?

A new accessible dwelling unit is defined as a new unit that is located on an accessible route and can be approached, entered, and used by individuals with physical disabilities and is otherwise in compliance with Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS).

Who verifies that the unit is a new accessible unit?

HABC will require a UFAS certification by a reputable architectural and/or engineering company to verify the unit meets accessibility standards.

How do you define a newly constructed unit?

A Newly constructed unit is defined as a unit in which construction was completed in the past 24 months.

Who verifies that the unit is a newly constructed unit?

HABC will use the State Department of Assessments & Taxation (SDAT) to confirm the build date of the unit. If unavailable, HABC may require alternate documentation from a State, Local Agency, or owner to verify the build date such as a Certificate of Substantial Completion.