The Section 8 Program is always seeking additional qualified landlord participants. Tenant screening and selection are up to the landlord. Landlords should use the same selection process they use to select market rate tenants. Section 8 participants must comply with the terms of the lease, including prompt payment of rent and proper care of the unit. The landlord may choose not to renew the lease at the end of the initial one-year term or any term thereafter.

Section 8 Program Benefits to Landlords

• Guaranteed monthly rent payments
• Direct deposit from FSHA
• Low vacancy rates
• Good residents – it’s your choice
• Annual inspections by FSHA at no cost to you to ensure maximum property upkeep
• Collection of security deposit
• Use your own rental lease
• Free weekly unit listings
• Criminal background checks on tenant referrals
• Annual Landlord Meetings

Landlord Responsibilities

1. Screen all applicants - Landlords should screen prospective Housing Choice Voucher Program tenants just as they would unassisted tenants. FSHA can provide the name, address, and telephone number of the last landlord to rent to the tenant.
2. Allow FSHA to inspect the unit - Landlords must allow FSHA to inspect the unit to ensure that it complies with HUD's Housing Quality Standards. They must also allow FSHA to inspect the unit at its request, or the tenant’s request.
3. Make timely repairs and keep the property in good condition - Landlords are required to keep the unit in good condition and ensure that it complies with HUD’s Housing Quality Standards. They must make all necessary repairs in a reasonable time period, or, if damaged by the tenant, notify the tenant that it is his or her responsibility to pay for or repair the damage.
4. Collect the tenant's portion of the rent - FSHA will not collect rent from Housing Choice Voucher Program tenants.
5. Abide by the lease (with the tenant) and the HAP Contract (with FSHA) - Owners must comply with the terms of the lease signed with the tenant and the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract signed with FSHA.
6. Comply with federal fair housing laws - For questions about the requirements of federal fair housing laws, contact the Housing Choice Voucher Program at 479-782-4991.
7. Abide by the obligations of Arkansas State Landlord–Tenant law - Under state law, landlords have the same responsibilities to voucher-assisted tenants as they do to unassisted tenants.

How to Apply

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a landlord with Section 8, the Landlord Packet is available in the following manners:

1. The fastest way to obtain the Landlord Packet is to download it from this website here. (Landlord Packet)
2. Request a Landlord Packet via e-mail at info@fortsmithhousing.org. When e-mailing, please indicate your return e-mail address and that you are requesting the Landlord Packet.
3. You may also stop by or call the FSHA office at 479-782-4991 ext. 110 to obtain a packet during the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday.

Submitting the Application

You may submit your landlord application by mail, fax or scan and email it to the address below.

Fort Smith Housing Authority

Section 8 Manager
2100 North 31st Street
Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904
Fax: (479) 709-9381

E-mail: info@fortsmithhousing.org