Landlord Resources

Partner with Dakota County CDA to provide quality affordable housing through the Housing Choice Voucher program.

Property owner showing rental unit to prospective tenant

Benefits of Partnering with Us

Guaranteed Payments

Receive reliable monthly rent payments directly from the CDA.

Qualified Tenants

Access a pool of screened, voucher-holding tenants.

Free Inspections

Property inspections at no cost to ensure quality standards.

Reduced Vacancy

Steady demand helps maintain high occupancy rates.

How the Housing Choice Voucher Program Works

The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program helps low-income families afford housing in the private market. Here's how it works for landlords:

1
Tenant Finds Your Unit

A voucher holder contacts you about renting your property.

2
Submit Tenancy Request

Complete the Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) form with proposed rent.

3
Rent Reasonableness Review

We verify the rent is reasonable compared to similar units in the area.

4
Property Inspection

We inspect the unit to ensure it meets Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

5
Contract Execution

Sign the HAP contract and lease. Tenant moves in!

6
Receive Monthly Payments

CDA sends Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) directly to you each month.

Property Requirements

Your property must meet HUD's Housing Quality Standards (HQS). Key requirements include:

  • Sanitary facilities
  • Food preparation area
  • Adequate space & security
  • Thermal environment
  • Illumination & electricity
  • Structure & materials
  • Interior air quality
  • Lead-based paint compliance
Inspection Timeline:

Initial inspections are scheduled within 15 business days of receiving the RFTA. Annual inspections occur on the anniversary of the HAP contract.

Payment Information

Housing Assistance Payments (HAP)

The CDA pays the HAP portion of rent directly to you each month. The tenant pays the remaining portion.

Example: Total Rent $1,200/month
CDA: $840 (70%)
Tenant: $360 (30%)

Payment Schedule

  • Payments are issued on or before the 1st of each month
  • Direct deposit available for faster payment
  • Payment statements available online

Landlord Responsibilities

  • Maintain HQS compliance - Keep the property in good condition
  • Collect tenant rent portion - The tenant's share is your responsibility to collect
  • Notify CDA of changes - Report rent changes, lease renewals, or terminations
  • Allow inspections - Provide access for annual and special inspections
  • Follow fair housing laws - No discrimination based on protected classes