How the rent is set on a Section 8 unit.
Two checks shape the rent on a voucher unit: the payment standard and the rent reasonableness review.
What is the payment standard?
The housing authority sets a payment standard for each bedroom size. HUD defines it as the maximum monthly assistance payment for a family, before the tenant’s share is deducted. See our payment standards page.
What is rent reasonableness?
HUD requires the housing authority to make sure the rent for a voucher unit is reasonable. The authority compares it with rents for similar unassisted units in the area.
What does this mean before I list?
- Price the unit close to the market.
- Know the voucher bedroom size your tenant holds.
- Ask us before you set the rent. Text (862) 330-6122.
Landlord questions, answered.
Can I ask more than the payment standard?
The authority’s payment is based on the standard for the voucher size. Talk to us before you list.
What does the authority compare my rent to?
Similar unassisted units in the area, under HUD rent reasonableness rules.
Got a vacancy? Send it over.
Send the address. SubCity Group markets the unit, screens applicants to your criteria, and handles the housing authority paperwork for voucher tenants. Leasing and placement only.
Go to the source.
- HUD, HCV landlord resources - federal program rules for owners
- NJ DCA, Housing Choice Voucher program - the state voucher program
- Newark Housing Authority - the Newark authority
- NJ Attorney General, source of lawful income - what New Jersey law says about vouchers
- HUD guidebook: Rent Reasonableness (PDF) - how authorities check the rent