Code of Massachusetts Regulations
760 CMR - HOUSING AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF
Title 760 CMR 53.00 - Alternative Housing Voucher Program
Section 53.07 - Leasing and Contracting - Timetable
Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024
(1) After an applicant is determined eligible and qualified by an LHA, the LHA shall immediately issue a Voucher, if a Voucher is available, to that applicant who then shall become a Voucher Holder. The Voucher shall be valid for a period of 120 days from the date of issuance. The 120 day time period may be suspended for one time period of 30 days or less if the Voucher Holder, for reasons of hardship, is unable to search for suitable housing. Evidence of hardship must be submitted to the LHA in order for consideration of the suspension of time.
(2) Within 120 days of issuance/reissuance of a Voucher, a Voucher Holder shall submit a Request for Program Payment for a proposed Contract Unit to the administrating LHA. The Voucher Holder or the Owner or Owner's Agent must also supply the LHA with a certification from the Local Board of Health or other local code enforcement entity that the unit is in compliance with Article II of the State Sanitary Code and (if applicable) a certification from a Certified Lead Inspector that the contract unit is in compliance with applicable lead paint law. Any cost(s) incurred as a result of this requirement shall be borne by the Owner or Owner's Agent.
(3) Upon receipt of the necessary documentation, the LHA shall enter into a Voucher Payment Contract with the Owner of the Contract Unit, or the Owner's Agent, on behalf of the Voucher Holder (later referred to as the Participant).
(4) While a Voucher Payment Contract is in effect, the terms and conditions of the Participant's Voucher shall remain in effect for the period of time that the Participant occupies the Contract Unit or until otherwise terminated. When a Participant chooses or is required to move, the Participant shall give a calendar months written notice to the LHA and to the Owner or Owner's Agent. If a Participant moves and remains eligible, the LHA shall issue a new Voucher, and the Participant shall have 120 days to locate a Suitable Unit.
(5) If the Participant does not locate a Suitable Unit, within 120 days, the Voucher will expire, and the Participant shall not be entitled to further benefits.
