Question:
“Can I pay my lot rent using Section 8 vouchers? Will the park owner accept them?”
– Marlon H, 32, Los Angeles, CA
Answer:
Yes. A park owner must accept Section 8 rent vouchers as a valid means of payment.
The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits the owner of any housing accommodation from discriminating on the basis of source of income. (Gov. Code Sec. 12955.)
Senate Bill 329 states that: “a source of income means lawful, verifiable income paid directly to a tenant, or to a representative of a tenant, or paid to a housing owner or landlord on behalf of a tenant, including federal, state, or local public assistance, and federal, state, or local housing subsidies, including, but not limited to, federal housing assistance vouchers issued under Section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937.” (Gov. Code Sec. 12955(p).)
In addition, FEHA applies to mobile homes. FEHA defines a housing accommodation as “any building, structure, or portion thereof that is occupied as, or intended for occupancy as, a residence by one or more families and any vacant land that is offered for sale or lease for the construction thereon of any building, structure, or portion thereof intended to be so occupied.”
So, in conclusion, mobile homes qualify for Section 8 rent vouchers under the Fair Employment and Housing Act.
Overview:
● The park owner cannot discriminate against the source of income including Section 8 rent vouchers.
Luke, this is a great article. As a city commission candidate, this is exactly the information that I was looking for to add to my affordable housing platform. Thank you.
Glad to be of help!
I was just turned down trying to rent a mobile home at a mhp because I was told that they don’t except Section 8 vouchers and from what I understand under the fair housing act they can’t do that has anyone ever had this happen to them and where can I go or who can I speak to about this issue. thank you
Hello Elisha,
Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention.
If you believe you have experienced discrimination in housing based on your Section 8 voucher status, you have options for recourse. You can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or your state or local fair housing agency. These agencies can investigate your complaint and take appropriate action to address any violations of fair housing laws. Additionally, you may want to consider seeking assistance from a local fair housing organization or legal aid service. They can provide you with guidance on your rights under the Fair Housing Act and help you navigate the process of filing a complaint.
We encourage you to take action to address this issue and ensure that your rights are protected under fair housing laws. Discrimination in housing is illegal and unacceptable, and it is important to hold housing providers accountable for their actions.