IPNTA
Newsletters
November 2005
Voucher Issues: An Update
By Vicki Green
The latest info for those of us receiving vouchers is that there is no
news as far as federal funding for vouchers being withdrawn. So at this
time, no news is good news!
Interim Rent Statements: Some of us received notices
informing us of our interim rent statements but were bewildered as to
what this means. On the face of it, this document confirms the tenant’s
compliance with regulations and, therefore, is a reassuring statement
of the tenant’s continued eligibility and receipt of rent assistance.
But tenants have also told us that they received the interim notice
and, after that, a request for more documents. What to do?
Documentation: Our advice is to give HPD (the NYC Dept
of Housing and Urban Preservation) whatever it requires—even if
you are giving them the same documents you provided months ago. HPD is
a big organization whose staff can lose things and need to see them again.
Deplorable, maybe, but our best move is to comply rather than complain.
Inspection: Next is the matter of inspections. Some
of us have been inspected, some not. It is a matter of law that we allow
access to our apartments when HPD schedules an inspection. If we deny
access, our vouchers may be withheld. It’s crazy to risk our homes
over this. And there’s a plus side to allowing access. Many apartments
fail inspections if the kitchen appliances don’t work, so if you
have a problem with non-working appliances this is your chance to speak
up. The landlord has to remedy these faults!
If you are concerned with these or any other matters regarding your
voucher, we are very glad to help you understand your rights and obligations.
Drop a note in your lobby box in an envelope addressed to Vicki or Voucher
Lady. Or e-mail us at Vicki40Harrison@aol.com.
Tell us the best way to reach you, and we will contact you.
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