The DCHA voucher playbook.
How the system actually works, written for owners who don't want to read HUD Handbook 7420.10G.
Landlord questions, answered.
How does the HAP payment actually flow?
HAP = Housing Assistance Payment. DCHA pays its portion of the rent directly to you via ACH or check, monthly. The tenant pays their portion directly to you separately. Your lease is with the tenant; your HAP contract is with DCHA.
What if the tenant doesn't pay their portion?
The tenant's portion is their responsibility — same as any renter. You retain standard eviction remedies. DCHA's HAP payment isn't affected by tenant non-payment.
What does an HQS inspection look for, and how do I prep?
Working smoke and CO detectors, functioning outlets, no peeling paint (especially if children under 6 will live there), operable windows, functional plumbing and heat, no rodent or infestation evidence. We send you a pre-inspection checklist on first placement.
How is rent reasonableness set?
DCHA compares the proposed rent against other units in the submarket of similar size, condition, and amenity. For most Ward 7 & 8 large-unit properties, DCHA-accepted rents are at or above neighborhood market rates.
What's the payment standard for a 5-bedroom in DC?
DCHA publishes annual payment standards by bedroom size and submarket. 2026 standards for larger-bedroom units in Wards 7 & 8 are competitive with market-rate operations. We'll send the current figures with any vacancy we work on.
Can I refuse a voucher tenant?
No. DC law (and federal law, for most purposes) prohibits source-of-income discrimination. You cannot refuse to rent to a tenant because they hold a voucher.
Downloads.
HQS Pre-Inspection Checklist
What DCHA looks for. How to pass on the first inspection.
Request PDF →Landlord Placement FAQ
The full list of landlord questions we get, with current answers.
Request PDF →