FAQs
01-28-25: Update on OMB Pause of Federal Financial Assistance
We are aware of the recent announcement regarding the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) pause of Federal financial assistance. At this time, we want to assure you that this development does not currently impact Section 8 participants or property owners.
Berkeley Housing Authority is closely monitoring the situation and remains in communication with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). We will provide an update as soon as we receive further guidance or directives from HUD.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
04-23-25: Frequently Asked Questions Section 8
I. General Questions
Where are you located and what are your office hours?
How can I reach someone at the Housing Authority (phone, fax, email) Staff Directory
How do I go about sharing information about my experience with the Housing Authority?
Customer Service Feedback form
II. Applying for Housing Assistance
How do I apply for "emergency" housing?
What Section 8 programs does the Housing Authority offer?
How can I submit an application for Section 8?
How do I find my position on the waitlist?
Why is it important to report changes in my address?
How do I report changes to my application?
Will the Housing Authority deny my application if I have a criminal history?
III. Reasonable Accommodation
I don't speak or understand English very well; can I get translation assistance?
IV. Portability
Is Berkeley accepting portability?
Berkeley Housing Authority Administrative Plan
What do I need to do to move out of Berkeley with my voucher?
Are there specific times when you process clients porting to Berkeley?
Must my current Housing Authority mail my packet?
V. Leasing (Renting) a Unit with Section 8 Assistance
Brochures of the Section 8 Program
How do I go about including my rental unit on the listing?
What step must be completed before an owner can get paid by the Berkeley Housing Authority?
How long does it take to get an inspection of the unit to be rented with Section 8 assistance?
What is the difference between the Fair Market Rents and Payment Standards?
How much does Berkeley pay for rent?
Payment Standards, Income Limits and Utility Allowance
Can I pay extra to get a nicer unit?
Can I get help with the Security Deposit?
Do I have to use the Housing Authority lease?
When can I move into the new unit?
When will the landlord receive the first rent check from the Housing Authority?
IV. Rent Information
Does the Housing Authority allow for increases in contract rent?
When is a change in the contract rent effective?
My utility allowance is not high enough to cover my PG&E bill.
PGE Care Program Application here
Weatherization Assistance Program (ca.gov).
How are utilities handled if the property has a single meter for has, electric or water service?
VII. Family Rent
Why is it important to report changes in my income?
What can I do if the housing authority didn't calculate my rent correctly?
My tenant is consistently late paying rent. What can I do?
I had an increase in my income, will the Housing Authority raise my rent?
VIII. Inspections/Housing Quality Standards
What can I do to increase the chances of my unit passing the inspection standards?
Who do I call to reschedule my unit inspection?
I don't agree with the items the inspector marked as "fail" items. How do I appeal the decision?
What can I do if the tenant won't allow me inside the unit to make repairs?
I need more time to complete repairs; can I get an extension?
Click her for link to Extension request form.
What happens if the owner refuses to make repairs required by the Housing Authority?
X. Managing Your Section 8 Assistance
I received a letter from the Housing Authority and I misplaced it. I am not sure what I need to do?
Can I let a family member or friend move in with me?
Can my landlord deny my request to add someone to my lease?
Can I pay the owner additional money for additional services?
XI. Termination
How do I report criminal activity and/or fraud to the Housing Authority?
Confidential Report of Suspected Fraud/Program Abuse Form
Does the Housing Authority ever terminate or evict tenants with Section 8 Vouchers for bad behavior?
Can a landlord evict a Section 8 tenant?
Once in, must an owner stay an active participant in the Section 8 Program?
XII. Affordable Housing
Where can I find affordable Housing?
Click here for the City of Berkeley's web page on Affordable Housing Resources
