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Nov. 4, 2016
Department of Commerce launches “Landlord
Mitigation” program, offering up to $5,000 for landlords serving tenants who use HUD housing vouchers
OLYMPIA, WA –
The Department of Commerce today announced a new program designed to provide relief to landlords whose
property has been damaged by a tenant who used a federal Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) housing choice voucher, also known as a “Section
8” voucher, or a Veterans Affairs supportive housing voucher, also known as
a VASH
vouchers.
The housing choice voucher program
is the federal government's major program for assisting very low-income
families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary
housing in the private market.
“Strengthening communities is our
agency’s core purpose. Providing tools to ensure that everyone is housed is an
important element of vibrant communities that support successful businesses and
self-sufficient people,” said Corina Grigoras, Commerce managing director for
housing finance programs.
The Washington State Legislature this year provided Commerce
with funds and authority to reimburse eligible landlords from $500 to $5,000 to
cover damages found to have been caused by Section 8 or VASH tenants. To
qualify, landlords must have a court judgment against the tenant, and the
damaged property must be in a jurisdiction that prohibits denial of tenancy
based on source of income. Other restrictions apply.
Full details of the new landlord
mitigation program and an application
form are available on the Department of Commerce website.
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About Commerce
Commerce
is the lead state agency charged with enhancing and promoting sustainable
community and economic vitality in Washington. For more information, visit www.commerce.wa.gov. For information
on locating or expanding a business in Washington, visit www.choosewashington.com.
Contacts:
Penny Thomas, Commerce Media Relations, 206-256-6106
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