Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Updates
In some cities a landlord may not deny someone housing just because they have a voucher. In these cities, our listings show the Have a Voucher? icon.
A landlord may still use their resident selection criteria process and can deny someone based on their written criminal, credit, rental history, and other screening criteria.
How to Approach the Housing Search
First, make sure the rent is within the payment standard of the housing authority where you got your voucher. If it is, call the landlord to set up a tour. There is no need to share that you have a voucher over the phone or in an email before the tour. Wait until you see the home in person. Once you visit the unit, if you want to live there and meet the screening criteria, let the landlord know that you have a voucher and are ready to apply.
What if Landlord is Confused about the New Rules?
Just in case, print off this page and bring it with you when you meet the landlord. It explains the new ordinance and how the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program works.
What if a Landlord Says, "We don't accept vouchers or subsidies or Section 8?"
This is against the law. Contact the Civil Rights Department at 612-673-3012.
Good luck on your housing search!
A landlord may still use their resident selection criteria process and can deny someone based on their written criminal, credit, rental history, and other screening criteria.
How to Approach the Housing Search
First, make sure the rent is within the payment standard of the housing authority where you got your voucher. If it is, call the landlord to set up a tour. There is no need to share that you have a voucher over the phone or in an email before the tour. Wait until you see the home in person. Once you visit the unit, if you want to live there and meet the screening criteria, let the landlord know that you have a voucher and are ready to apply.
What if Landlord is Confused about the New Rules?
Just in case, print off this page and bring it with you when you meet the landlord. It explains the new ordinance and how the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program works.
What if a Landlord Says, "We don't accept vouchers or subsidies or Section 8?"
This is against the law. Contact the Civil Rights Department at 612-673-3012.
Good luck on your housing search!
