What is a "HAP contract" in the HCV program?

A "HAP contract," or Housing Assistance Payment contract, is a legal agreement established between the Public Housing Authority (PHA) and the landlord to facilitate rental assistance for a specific family participating in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. This contract ensures that the PHA agrees to make housing assistance payments to the landlord on behalf of the tenant who qualifies for the program.

The HAP contract outlines the responsibilities of both the PHA and the landlord, including the amount of the rental assistance payment, the duration of the contract, and compliance with program regulations. This ensures that the tenant is provided with affordable housing, while also giving the landlord assurance that they will receive consistent rental payments.

Other options do not reflect the true nature of a HAP contract. For example, a verbal agreement between a tenant and landlord would not be an enforceable contract and lacks the formal structure required in rental assistance programs. A contract for home repair services would relate to property maintenance but has no relation to housing assistance payments. Finally, an agreement to manage building inspections does not pertain to the funding structure or responsibilities laid out in a HAP contract, which focuses specifically on rental assistance.