Moving Process FAQs

What is the purpose of the Movers Session?
Movers Sessions provide up-to-date information about HCVP policies and procedures.  It is also where the new voucher and moving papers, known as the RFTA Packet, are distributed.  Participants and household members ages 18 and over are required to sign a criminal background release form at the session. 

Is the criminal background check done immediately?
Criminal background checks are completed within a week of the participant attending the Movers Session.  If a member of the household fails the criminal background check the household will be proposed for termination from the program.  Any paperwork that has been submitted will be placed on hold. 

When can I begin looking for a new unit?
As soon as you receive your voucher.

How long do I have to find a unit?
There is a time limit of 120 days to go under contract in a new unit.  Special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis if more time is needed.

When can I move into my unit?
Participants can move after the unit passes the HQS inspection, the landlord accepts the proposed contract rent, and a move-in-date is approved by the HCVP.  No HAP will be paid by the HCVP for rental of the unit prior to the approved move-in-date.  Participants should move into their new unit no more than 5 days after the move-in-date approved by the HCVP. 

How long does it take for units to be approved?
Once the RFTA is submitted, the approval process generally takes 30-45 days to complete.  This process includes checking for foreclosure action, inspecting the unit, and performing the rent determination. 

What happens if either the owner or participant no longer wants to rent the unit?
If a move-in-date has not been approved by the HCVP, the participant or owner may cancel the RFTA at any time and the participant will be given new moving papers.  If either party wishes to cancel after the move-in-date has been approved, the HCVP must be notified in writing within 14 days.

If the participant does not obtain the keys to the new unit within 5 days of the effective date of the HAP contract, the HCVP may terminate the contract.  Failure to notify the HCVP may cause the participant to be proposed for termination from the voucher program.

When does the participant have to be out of their former unit?

Participants must ensure that all personal belongings are moved out of their former housing unit as soon as possible.  Participants will be responsible for the total contract rent of their previous unit if all belongings are not moved out by the end of the month in which the move-in-date for the new housing unit is scheduled.