Section 8 as a Landlord in CT

[Anne Cullen]

Hi everyone,

I bought a duplex last year in the hartford area with the intention of living in it for one year while fixing it up and then moving out and renting.  We've reached the renting part.

There's a number of qualified tenants, but some that have better credit/references would like to use section 8 vouchers, which inherently I have no problem with.  Does anyone have any experience as a landlord with section 8 in Connecticut?

Specifically how intense are the annual inspections? And are tenants able to make up a difference between the CT "fair market rent" and the true market average?  The CT voucher program says that the applications are closed but I imagine that is for the tenants?  Additionally, how long does it take to get approved as a landlord?

I.e. we have a 3 bedroom 1 bath on either side of the duplex.  FY 2022 Fair market Hud rate is $1610; Most comparable properties are currently renting for $1800.  Would the tenant be able to make that difference or is it that the cap for what you can get for rent?

Any insight would be appreciated! 

thanks!