Protect residents’ rights and benefits
The transition from public housing to Section 8 Project Based Assistance vouchers will ensure that resident homes remain permanently affordable. The goal of PHA’s Opening Doors Initiative is to preserve all existing resident rights, including the right to organize.
Here are some frequently asked questions and more information on transitioning from public housing to Section 8 through the federal government’s Rental Assistance Demonstration Program (RAD).
Q. Will residents have to move during the construction process?
A. In some instances, relocation will be required to complete repairs or proceed with redevelopment. In all relocation cases, PHA will pay for relocation related expenses and work closely with individual resident families to implement a plan that minimizes disruptions and meets family members’ specific needs. Trained PHA counselors will work with each family to identify temporary or permanent relocation housing, plan for the move and help make sure families receive all the relocation benefits they are entitled to.
Q. What are some of the improvements being planned for existing buildings?
A. PHA is conducting physical needs assessments to determine the level of rehab needed for each building. Residents in scattered sites and rehab buildings could see upgrades to flooring, new light fixtures and outlets, and fresh paint. Redevelopment sites could see entirely new buildings that are healthier, safer, and more energy efficient.
Q. Will rents change after construction completion and conversion to Section 8?
A. Most residents will not see any change to their current rent after the conversion. Some rents – primarily residents who pay ceiling rent – will not exceed 30% of household income. However, no resident will pay more than 30% of their household income for rent. For ceiling renters who experience a significant rent increase, PHA will phase in the increase over a three-year period to ease family hardship.
Q. How will the conversion to Section 8 change resident rights to organize and have input?
A. PHA will continue to value the input of residents. After conversion from public housing to Section 8, residents will still have the right to organize and be involved in PHA policy development and implementation efforts. Resident organizations will continue to receive funding comparable to what was provided in the public housing program.
Q. Are there other benefits in moving from public housing to Section 8
A. key benefit for public housing residents who transition to Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is that they will have the opportunity to eventually receive a mobile voucher, subject to availability. This means the household could expand their housing options even more and have the flexibility to take the voucher and use it anywhere in Philadelphia.
Q. Where can I get more information about resident rights and transitioning to Section 8?
A. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has developed several resources that thoroughly explain the process of transitioning to Section 8 through the RAD Program. Here’s more information:
