Section 8 Tenant Screening Question

[Tiara Jackson]

We just bought a property in Baltimore and are getting it ready to list for rent. We have our screening requirements outlined that we typically use, which include that the tenant must make 3x the rent and put down a 1-month deposit prior to move-in. This will be our first time accepting vouchers. My question is when we're reviewing an application from a Section 8 Voucher holder, would we verify that they make 3x the portion of the rent they're paying (Baltimore City pays 70%, Section 8 voucher holders pay 30%).  For example, if rent is $1500 per month they would need to make at least 1350 per month and put down a $1500 deposit since Baltimore City doesn't cover deposits? Just trying to gut-check if I'm thinking about this the right way. Also in response to this thread please share any words of wisdom or advice you have regarding accepting Section 8 vouchers. 

Thank you! 

[Erin Dreher]

For screening your tenants you should probably reach out to the local housing office and see what you can require legally. Since its a federally funded program I think there are state laws on what you can require from a tenant. 

In my experience - owners either like Section 8 or they hate Section 8. There are pro's and cons with accepting them. We do work with tenants that use the vouchers and they are not easy to get set up and going in the beginning but after you get them set up they come like clockwork. There is usually a huge lag in time from when your tenant moves in and the housing office processing the paperwork and cutting you a check (2 months). Communication with the caseworkers and housing organization is rather difficult also.