Information for Landlords
The Area Housing Authority is a federally funded, non-profit, public agency serving the cities of Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Thousand Oaks, and Simi Valley and the unincorporated areas of the County. We administer a rental subsidy program called the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Program participants must find their own place to rent from a landlord or property management company and use the Voucher to pay for part of the rent. Without the participation of caring landlords, families can experience difficulty finding a decent place to live.
The Housing Authority team understands that a cooperative partnership with local landlords is critical to the success of our goal to provide decent, safe and affordable housing to low and moderate income families. The Housing Authority continually seeks out new owners and property management companies to participate in the Voucher Program.
What is the Housing Choice Voucher program?
The Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8, is a rent-assistance program subsidized by the federal government. The Area Housing Authority administers this program for properties located in the cities of Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and unincorporated areas of the county.
How does the program work?
The program allows low-income tenants to rent market-rate apartments, houses, or other multi-family units from private landlords. Tenants pay between 30 and 40 percent of their household’s income towards rent and utilities; The Area Housing Authority pays the difference directly to the landlord. Because tenants always pay a percentage of their income, instead of a fixed amount, their home remains affordable to them even if their income decreases.
Please refer to the Six Easy Steps to Leasing to Section 8 Tenants for more insight and information.
What is the role of the Area Housing Authority?
The Area Housing Authority pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord and ensures the unit meets Housing Quality Standards. AHA is also responsible for making sure tenants follow the program rules and remain eligible for the program. Landlords are responsible for enforcing the lease just as they would with any other tenant. Both landlords and tenants have the rights and responsibilities set out under The Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. 3601.
How do I join the Section 8 Program as a landlord?
Landlords do not need to sign up to participate; they become participants just by agreeing to rent to a Voucher-holder. The best way to get started is to list your vacant unit or units on the Section 8 Rental Listing form. Once a Voucher-holder wants to rent your unit, you will receive all the necessary information and forms you need to get started.