SMHA's Section 8 Program is generally open to all rental housing owners/managers in the Stark County area. The only stipulation is that the units meet the Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

Step 1
Notify SMHA that you have an available unit and would like to participate in the program. We will put you on our list of units available which is given to voucher holders who are out looking for housing. You may also place an ad in the local paper stating you accept Section 8 assisted renters.

Step 2
When a Section 8 participant is selected by you as a lessee, take a few minutes to fill out the Request for Tenancy Approval form, which requires answering typical questions such as type of building structure; utility arrangements (owner or tenant paid), appliances available (i.e. range, refrigerator); trash collection; and amount of rent charged. This form must be returned by the prospective tenant so that SMHA can approve your unit for Section 8 subsidy.

Step 3
The unit then is scheduled for an inspection.

Step 4
The inspector contacts the landlord/apartment manager to set up a Housing Quality Inspection.

Step 5
When the unit inspection passes, the Section 8 Housing Inspector determines the appropriate rent and establishes the move-in date. The lease between the landlord and tenant must then be submitted to SMHA so that the Housing Assistance Payment Contract may be executed and rental assistance can begin.

Step 6
The process can be completed in as little as a week if your unit passes inspection.

We strongly urge that you thoroughly screen applicants as permitted by law, as you would the typical market housing applicant. For example, this may include a reasonable application fee, reference checks, credit check, eviction check, and a home visit. We suggest that you collect an amount equal to one month's contract rent as a security deposit. You must follow Ohio Landlord/Tenant law for the collection and return of Security Deposits.