THE GOAL AND PURPOSE OF THE
HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM

The primary purpose of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is to offer expanded rental assistance opportunities (other than those available in the public housing program) to low–income families by utilizing the existing housing stock in the community. The HCV Program offers greater mobility to its participants in that they have the opportunity to search for suitable housing throughout the area in which CHA operates.

HCV PROGAM RESPONSIBILITIES

THE LANDLORD

  • Screen families who apply for a unit in order to determine their suitability as renters
  • Comply with fair housing laws and not discriminate against the family
  • Maintain the housing unit by making necessary repairs in a timely manner and reporting their completion to CHA
  • Comply with the terms of the HAP Contract
  • Collect the rent due by the tenant and otherwise comply with and enforce the lease

The Housing Agency – (CHA)

  • Review all family applications to determine eligibility
  • Explain all the rules of the HCV Program to those participants who qualify
  • Issue a Housing Choice Voucher and assist the family in finding suitable housing
  • Approve the rental unit, the landlord, and the lease
  • Make housing assistance payments (HAP) to the landlord
  • Ensure that both the family and the unit continue to qualify
  • Ensure that landlords and families comply with the HCV rules

Please click on the following links for more information:

Partner Portal Link

 Landlord Utility Allowances

Landlord Frequently Asked Questions

Landlord Forms

HCV Contact Information

2024 Payment Standards

In conjunction with the Housing Choice Voucher Program, there are other programs within the HCV Program that are available to eligible participants. They are:

  • The Family Self Sufficiency Program (FSS)
  • The Home Ownership Program
  • The Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program (VASH)

ACRONYMS

CHAThe Housing Authority of the City of Charleston
FSSFamily Self Sufficiency
HAPHousing Assistance Payment
HQSHousing Quality Standards
HUDDepartment of Housing and Urban Development
RFTARequest for Tenancy Approval
VASHVeterans Affairs Supportive Housing