Section 8 Rent Increases
Self Help Kit

Due to changes in HUD's "Fair Market Rents" this year, most Section 8 voucher holders have received rent increases. Below are some articles that explain why this happened and what tenants and advocates can do to address an unaffordable rent increase.

(Off-site URLs and on-site "images" as in sample letters will open in a new window)

Section 8 Rent Brochure
Fact Sheet on Rent Increases: Why did they Happen and the Impact in SF
FAQ for Tenants

One of the most useful first steps in attempting to roll back a rent increase is simply to contact your landlord. Below is a sample letter you can send. We also suggest you include the letter that the Mayor wrote urging Section 8 Landlords to consider lowering rents.

Sample letter to landlord

It also helps if you include information about "comparable rents." If you show your landlord that the rent for your unit is above other market rents in your neighborhood, he/she may be more inclined to lower it. Go to "Craigslist" or "MetroRent" or the "SFGate"classified ads and search for same size units in your neighborhood to include in your letter.

If You Have a Disability:

You may apply to the Housing Authority to request a waiver from HUD for a "reasonable accommodation" related to your rent increase. If HUD approves your request, you could be given more assistance towards your rent. Click Here to find out more.