ON THE FLIP SIDE

Move-In Red Flags

Move-in day isn’t just the beginning of a lease—it’s a high-stakes moment for setting the tone, building trust, and avoiding future disputes. In this week’s On the Flip Side, we explore the most common move-in red flags for property managers—and how to handle them with clarity, compassion, and compliance.

Paired with our Knowing More video for residents, this episode rounds out both sides of the conversation. Residents learn what to check. Managers learn what not to miss.

Move-in Red Flags for Property Managers

Unreported Damage

Even small scratches, stains, or dings can come back to haunt you at move-out if they were never documented.

Best practice: Always walk the unit yourself before move-in and take photos of any visible damage. Upload them to the resident file—even if they seem minor. These visuals can protect both parties and prevent future disputes over who is responsible for what.

“If it wasn’t noted, it didn’t happen. Document everything.”

Inactive Smoke Detectors

Never assume a blinking light means the smoke detector is functional. Batteries could be dead. Detectors might be expired. And in a real emergency, a non-working unit could put lives at risk.

Best practice: Test the smoke detector before the resident arrives. If it fails, replace the battery—or the device—on the spot. Make this part of your pre-move-in routine.

Want to help residents do their part, too? Share our Knowing More video: New Place? Here’s What to Check on Day One.

Vague or Skipped House Rules

When rules aren’t clearly communicated up front, you leave space for misunderstandings. Common flashpoints include:

• Guest policies
• Pest control expectations
• Maintenance request timelines
• Noise and common area use

Best practice: Don’t just hand them the lease. Walk through the most important rules verbally. This builds accountability and encourages questions before there’s a problem.

“Let’s walk through this together so we’re both protected and on the same page.”

That single sentence can defuse tension and create alignment from the very beginning.

Documentation Isn’t Just Paperwork—It’s Protection

Move-in isn’t just a logistical handoff. It’s a compliance moment, a relationship checkpoint, and an opportunity to get ahead of costly mistakes. When property managers take the time to slow down, explain the basics, and document key details, everyone benefits. Property managers can avoid those move-in red flags.

Pair this episode with our Knowing More resident guide and consider sharing both videos during orientation or in your welcome packets.

Want More Training Like This?

Stay up to date on HUD compliance, property management best practices, and more with our series:

• On the Flip Side for site managers
• Knowing More for residents

Follow Navigate Affordable Housing Partners as we work to build safer, stronger communities—together.

The post Move-In Red Flags for Property Managers to Catch Before It’s Too Late appeared first on Navigate Housing.

#TuesdayTip

HUD Guidelines for Apartment Inspections

Apartment inspections are a cornerstone in multifamily housing. This Tuesday Tip explores the best practices for inspections and more.

Following HUD guidelines and understanding your responsibilities under state law can help ensure housing quality, protect tenant rights, and reduce risk for property owners.

Inspection Guidelines: Best Practices

1. Inspections Protect Housing Quality

Regular inspections are essential to maintaining livable, code-compliant housing. Move-in and move-out inspections help managers assess unit condition, identify maintenance needs, and uphold property standards. In addition to transition-related checks, annual inspections are highly recommended for ongoing upkeep.

2. Documentation Is Your Best Defense

Thorough documentation ensures that both tenants and management have a clear, objective record of the unit’s condition. Every inspection should include a fully completed checklist covering all rooms, appliances, and structural features.

While HUD guidelines do not mandate a specific inspection form, managers must ensure their documentation process meets HUD expectations and local legal requirements.

3. Timing Matters

Conducting inspections at key points—specifically move-in and move-out—helps prevent future disputes. Timely inspections allow for early identification of issues and reduce delays in re-occupying units.

4. Use Photos to Support Findings

Supplement written inspection forms with photo documentation. Images provide additional clarity, especially in cases of property damage or needed repairs, and can be used to support decisions on security deposits or compliance concerns.

5. Comply with State Laws and Secure Signatures

Each state may have unique requirements regarding the timing, notice, and format of apartment inspections. Always consult your state’s housing regulations in addition to HUD guidelines.

Importantly, inspection forms should be signed by both management and tenants to validate agreement on the unit’s condition.

Owners and agents don’t forget Inspections are more than a checkbox; they’re a critical tool in upholding HUD standards and building trust with residents. By following HUD guidelines, documenting thoroughly, and engaging tenants in the process, property managers can ensure fair, high-quality housing for all.

Click Here for more resources to align your inspection practices with HUD expectations including a downloadable inspection form..

The post Navigating HUD Guidelines for Apartment Inspections appeared first on Navigate Housing.

On the Flip Side

The 3 Most Common Myths

And How You Can Handle Them

Clear communication is critical in property management—but resident responsibilities misunderstandings are more common than you’d think.

This week on Knowing More, we explored what HUD Model Leases expect from residents—like keeping the unit clean and reporting problems early.

In this companion guide for managers, we take a closer look at the top 3 resident responsibilities misunderstandings and how to address them effectively.

Resident Responsibilities Misunderstanding #1: Pest Control

A common misconception? That all pest problems are the landlord’s job. The truth is, property managers handle scheduled extermination, but residents share responsibility for prevention, such as removing trash and avoiding grease buildup.

Try saying: “We provide scheduled treatment, but prevention depends on both of us.”

Watch the Knowing More video on resident responsibilities

Resident Responsibilities Misunderstanding #2: Work Order Expectations

Residents often expect instant repairs, even for non-urgent issues. This can lead to frustration on both sides.

You can set expectations early by explaining your triage system. Use clear phrasing like: “Emergency repairs come first. Your request is in line and important.”

Consider adding response timelines to your House Rules or maintenance FAQs.

Resident Responsibilities Misunderstanding #3: Wear and Tear vs. Damage

What you see as damage, a resident may see as “normal.” For example, snapped blinds or crayon marks on the wall are not normal wear and tear.

Prevent conflict by discussing normal wear and tear at move-in, using visuals and a checklist. HUD defines damage as anything caused by negligence or misuse, not time.

Tip: Document everything with a signed Unit Inspection Report at move-in and move-out.

Building Better Conversations

Resident responsibilities misunderstandings are inevitable—but how you respond makes all the difference.

• Use clear language
• Maintain a respectful tone
• Keep good documentation

These small shifts can protect compliance and preserve relationships.

Want to go deeper? Add this topic to your next staff training or property meeting agenda.

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Every Tuesday, we share actionable content through our “Tuesday Tips” video series. In 2025, we expanded our training library with “On the Flip Side. (OFTS),”
a companion series to “Knowing More” that explores the property manager’s perspective. Follow us to stay informed, sharpen your skills, and support stronger resident relationships.

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The post Resident Responsibilities Misunderstandings: What Property Managers Need to Know appeared first on Navigate Housing.

The Office of Multifamily Housing Programs (MFH) has taken a significant step to enhance transparency and stakeholder engagement around the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act of 2016 (HOTMA). On July 9, 2024, MFH published updated HOTMA forms to the HUD Drafting Table. These forms now reflect revisions made after the 60-day public comment period required by the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA).

This move allows stakeholders—especially owners and agents (O/As) in multifamily housing—to review, analyze, and prepare feedback before the upcoming 30-day Federal Register notice period begins.

What Are the Updated HOTMA Forms?

Multifamily Housing has updated forms tied to tenant eligibility certifications and rent calculation procedures. These revisions align with HOTMA’s legislative changes and modernize compliance expectations for HUD-assisted housing.

The forms now available include:

• Form HUD-9887 & 9887A: Applicant’s/Tenant’s Consent to Release Information
• Form HUD-50059 & 50059A: Owner’s Certification of Compliance with Tenant Eligibility and Rent Procedures
• TRACS 203A Instructions for both 50059 and 50059A
• Model Leases:
  • 90105a – Subsidized Programs
  • 90105b – Section 202/8 and 202/162 Projects
  • 90105c – Section 202 PRAC
  • 90105d – Section 811 PRAC
  • 92236 – Section 811 PRA

Other revised documents include:

• EIV and You Brochure
• HUD Form 27061-H – Race and Ethnic Data Reporting
• EIV Access Forms (HUD-90011 and 90012)
• HUD-90100 – Recertification Notice
• Disability Verification Forms (HUD-90102 & 90103)
• HUD-90104 – Exception to Admissions Limitations
• HUD-90106 – Move-In/Move-Out Inspection
• RRR Brochure – Resident Rights & Responsibilities
• Fact Sheets – Section 8, Section 202/811, and Section 236

See the full list and access the forms on HUD’s HOTMA Drafting Table page.

Why This Matters

The updated HOTMA forms are a significant milestone in MFH’s effort to implement HOTMA changes across multifamily housing programs fully. These forms directly impact how O/As determine eligibility, calculate rent, and notify residents.

By publishing them ahead of the 30-day notice period, HUD ensures transparency and enables the industry to:

• Prepare for full compliance
• Offer actionable feedback before final adoption
• Avoid disruption during implementation

Given the complexity of HOTMA, these changes reflect HUD’s commitment to thoughtful and informed rulemaking.

What’s Next?

MFH has alerted its federal partners that these forms are ready for the next step: a 30-day public comment period via an official Federal Register Notice.

Once that notice is published, stakeholders will receive:

• A comment deadline
• Instructions on how to submit feedback

Stay updated by subscribing to HUD’s multifamily housing updates or regularly checking the Drafting Table page.

Have Questions?

HUD welcomes your questions about the HOTMA-related forms. Email the MFH team directly at: MFH_HOTMA@hud.gov

Helpful Resources

• Drafting Table – HOTMA Forms Overview
• Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) Main Page
• Federal Register Notices

HUD Is Listening

This early release of the updated HOTMA forms signals HUD’s proactive approach to regulatory transparency and community engagement. Navigate encourages all multifamily housing stakeholders to review these forms now and be prepared to offer insight once the 30-day comment window opens.

Timely participation ensures that your voice helps shape the compliance tools and tenant engagement materials for the future.

The post Updated HOTMA Forms Posted for Public Review on HUD’s Drafting Table appeared first on Navigate Housing.

#TuesdayTip

Address Communication Challenges

Addressing communication challenges is part of the job, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This Tuesday Tip offers guidance and helpful suggestions for property managers and agents.

In affordable and subsidized housing, communication builds trust and supports safe, inclusive communities. Property managers must address communication challenges—like language barriers, disabilities, and past trauma with empathy and professionalism.

Why Communication Challenges Happen

Communication breakdowns are common and not always intentional. They often stem from:

• Cultural differences or language gaps
• Disabilities affecting speech, comprehension, or behavior
• Past trauma or distrust of authority figures
• Implicit personal biases from either party

Understanding that every resident comes with a unique background is the first step toward meaningful engagement.

Active Listening is Essential

One of the most powerful tools to address communication challenges is active listening. This means:

• Listen without interrupting
• Repeat or paraphrase to confirm understanding
• Acknowledge the resident’s emotions—even when a solution isn’t clear

Active listening creates space for honest dialogue and builds rapport.

Offer Options Instead of Refusal

A simple “no” can end a conversation abruptly and create defensiveness. Instead:

• Offer alternatives when rules prevent an immediate “yes”
• Involve the resident in problem-solving to foster collaboration
• Provide choices to restore a sense of control

This approach encourages cooperation, not conflict.

What Else to Consider When Addressing Communication Challenges

Even in difficult conversations, empathy can be your strongest ally. A well-placed apology or validating statement like “I can see how this is upsetting” helps de-escalate tension and humanize the interaction. Owners, managers, and agents should also consider communication disabilities. Not every challenge is behavioral—some stem from cognitive, sensory, or mental health conditions. Property managers should:

• Avoid assumptions about behavior
• Use accessible language and visual cues where possible
• Allow time and space for different communication needs

This ensures compliance with fair housing laws and builds a culture of inclusion. Finally, Boundaries and Safety Matter! Empathy does not mean tolerating disrespect. Property Managers should set clear, reasonable boundaries during conversations. Stay calm and professional, even when challenged. Priories Safety for themselves and others in escalated situations. Respect works both ways, and professionalism is key to resolution.

Ultimately, the goal in any interaction is to ensure that all parties feel heard, valued, and treated with dignity. That doesn’t mean every issue gets solved instantly—but how a conversation is handled often matters more than the outcome.To effectively address communication challenges in housing, property managers must balance empathy with clarity, and compassion with consistency. By embracing active listening, offering solutions, and respecting the diverse needs of residents, we can build safer, stronger communities—one conversation at a time.

Want more guidance on multifamily housing? Click here to subscribe to Navigate’s weekly Tuesday Tip.

The post How to Address Communication Challenges in Housing appeared first on Navigate Housing.

ON THE FLIP SIDE

When a Guest Becomes More Than a Guest

What Property Managers Can Do

In Section 8 housing, guest visits are expected, but prolonged stays can cross the line. When that happens, you may be dealing with an unauthorized occupant, which puts subsidy compliance and lease enforcement at risk.

This post is the ‘On the Flip Side’ response to our recent ‘Knowing More’ video for residents. While that video focused on what residents need to know about guest limits, today we’re shifting perspective.

Let’s talk about how property managers can—and should—respond when a guest becomes an unauthorized occupant in PBRA housing.

Know What the Lease and HUD Say

Most leases outline guest limits clearly. While the specifics can vary, HUD’s guidance suggests 14 consecutive days or 30 total days in a calendar year as a baseline.

If a guest exceeds that limit, the next step isn’t eviction—it’s documentation, communication, and a structured response.

Signs of an Unauthorized Occupant

A person may be considered more than a guest if they:

• Stay overnight regularly
• Move personal belongings into the unit
• Receive mail at the address
• Begin appearing to live in the unit full-time

If you consistently see these signs, it’s time to take action.

How to Respond Professionally

Property managers have several tools to address the issue:

• Request written documentation from the resident
• Issue a lease reminder outlining guest stay limitations
• Require the guest to apply for approval, if appropriate
• Begin lease enforcement procedures if the resident is uncooperative

Always refer back to both the lease and HUD Handbook 4350.3 for proper process.

Pro Tip: Consistent documentation is key. Note each conversation, notice, and observed behavior to protect yourself and ensure compliance.

Enforce, But Don’t Escalate Too Quickly

It’s essential to recognize that some residents allow guests to stay longer for legitimate reasons—childcare, recovery, and emergencies. Approach the situation with professionalism and clarity, not assumptions.

Remind residents: you’re not trying to penalize them. You’re working to protect their assistance and the integrity of the program.

From Education to Enforcement

If you’ve already shared our Knowing More video on guest limits with your residents, consider this blog and video the follow-up tool for your staff.

Use On the Flip Side: When a Guest Stays Too Long to:

• Train new managers on how to identify unauthorized occupants
• Refresh your enforcement policy
• Share during staff meetings or compliance audits

You can watch the full video here up top.

Protect Your Property and Your Program

Guests staying too long may seem harmless at first, but they can quickly compromise compliance.

By recognizing the signs, responding within HUD guidelines, and documenting everything, you can handle these situations with confidence.

Knowing more isn’t just for residents. It’s how you stay in control.

The post Guest Becomes Unauthorized Occupant? What Property Managers Should Do appeared first on Navigate Housing.

HUD is offering foreclosure relief after the Texas floods.

Since July 2, 2025, torrential storms, straight-line winds, and relentless flooding have battered Kerr County, Texas. More than 100 lives have been lost. Families have been displaced. Entire communities have been changed forever.

In the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has stepped in to offer critical support to homeowners trying to hold on to the only stability they have left — their homes.

Immediate Relief for FHA Homeowners

In response to the President’s major disaster declaration, HUD Secretary Scott Turner has announced a 90-day foreclosure moratorium for FHA-insured single-family homes in Kerr County.

“Our hearts break as we witness the catastrophe unfolding in Texas,” said Secretary Turner. “The flash floods have claimed the lives of more than 100 Americans and displaced countless others. It is an unfathomable tragedy, and HUD will continue to provide resources and support as we pray for the Texas Hill Country community.”

This moratorium prohibits mortgage servicers from initiating or completing foreclosure actions in the impacted area. It applies to FHA-insured single-family forward mortgages and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs).

This means more than 900 families in Kerr County now have a window of time to begin recovering without the immediate threat of foreclosure.

How Homeowners Can Access Help Now

If you’re a homeowner affected by these floods, here’s what you need to know and do:

1. Contact Your Mortgage Servicer

If your home is located in the Presidentially Declared Major Disaster Area (PDMDA) and you are struggling to make mortgage payments:

• Reach out to your mortgage servicer immediately.
• Inform them of your situation and ask about your disaster-related options under the moratorium.

2. Call the FHA Resource Center

Homeowners can also contact the FHA Resource Center for more information at: 1-800-CALL-FHA (1-800-225-5342)

This line supports individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have communication disabilities. Accessible call guidance is available here: Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

Support for Homeowners and Renters Beyond Foreclosure Relief

HUD’s commitment goes beyond a temporary pause in foreclosure. Affected individuals — homeowners and renters — can find immediate and long-term assistance through the following:

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors

If you’re unsure where to begin or need housing advice, certified housing counselors can guide you through your options:

• Use HUD’s Online Housing Counselor Search Tool
• Or call 1-800-569-4287 to connect with someone who can help

These services are free and tailored to your specific needs, including help with rental assistance, foreclosure avoidance, and disaster recovery.

Section 203(h) – Rebuild or Replace Your Home

If your home was destroyed or severely damaged:

• Ask an FHA-approved lender about FHA’s 203(h) program.
• This program allows 100% financing for eligible borrowers to rebuild or purchase a replacement home.

You can find an FHA-approved lender here: HUD Lender Search

Section 203(k) – Repair and Renovate

For those whose homes are damaged but not destroyed:

• The Section 203(k) program enables you to purchase and repair or refinance and renovate a home with one mortgage.
• This streamlined process helps you make your home livable again — fast.

Hope Amid Heartbreak: HUD’s Commitment to Long-Term Recovery

The grief in Kerr County is real. So are the fears about the future. However, federal aid — such as this action from HUD — offers a lifeline.

The 90-day moratorium provides critical breathing room. But it’s just the beginning of a longer recovery. HUD, in partnership with state and local agencies, is working to assess ongoing damage, direct resources where needed most, and ensure that no family slips through the cracks.

To stay informed on HUD’s disaster recovery support, visit the HUD Disaster Resources page: HUD Disaster Relief and Recovery

The post HUD Responds to Devastating Kerr County Flooding appeared first on Navigate Housing.

#TuesdayTip

Pets on Property

Pet rules can be confusing. This Tuesday Tip covers the basics of HUD-regulated pet policies across different types of housing.

Understanding Pets and Pet Policies in HUD-Assisted Housing

Pets bring joy, companionship, and comfort. However, managing pets in multifamily housing can get complicated. In this Tuesday Tip, we break down the essentials of pets and pet policies with a special focus on HUD regulations, fair housing laws, and the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords.

Pet Rules Vary by Housing Type

One key takeaway: not all housing is subject to the same pet policies. HUD-assisted housing for the elderly or disabled must allow common household pets, such as cats, dogs, birds, or small rodents. However, landlords can still establish reasonable restrictions related to pet size, type, and number.

What Qualifies as a “Common Household Pet”?

According to HUD, common household pets exclude exotic animals like snakes or large reptiles. Landlords may set breed or size limits—but they must tread carefully. Broad bans, especially those targeting specific breeds, can raise legal concerns and potentially violate fair housing rules.

Service Animals Are Not Pets

A critical distinction: service animals and emotional support animals are not considered pets under the law. That means pet-related rules, fees, or restrictions do not apply to them. These animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act and may not be excluded based on breed or size.

Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

Clear pet policies also help ensure safety and harmony in shared housing spaces. Landlords should:

• Require pets to be properly contained and cared for
• Address rule violations in accordance with the lease
• Stay compliant with local and federal laws

Tenants, in turn, must understand and honor the terms of their lease including pet-related clauses.

Where to Find HUD Pet Policy Guidelines

HUD also provides resources and guidance on establishing and enforcing pet policies. These can be found through HUD’s official site and in handbooks specific to housing type.

Whether you’re a landlord or a resident, understanding pets and pet policies is essential for maintaining a safe and welcoming housing environment. Clarity, compliance, and communication are key.

The post Pets and Pet Policies on Property appeared first on Navigate Housing.

Seniors in subsidized housing are facing new challenges. Federal policy shifts—including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—may not directly change rent formulas, but they’re quietly impacting the support systems that older Americans rely on to stay stable, healthy, and fed.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what senior residents should know:

Rent May Remain Stable, But Other Costs Could Rise

• Section 8 protections still apply. Your rent is generally based on 30% of your adjusted income, and that formula hasn’t changed.
• However, out-of-pocket costs for healthcare, food, and utilities may increase, which can strain fixed incomes.
• Utility allowances may not keep pace with rising energy costs, especially in aging buildings.

Ask your property manager or service coordinator about updates to utility allowances or medical expense deductions.

Be Mindful of Changes to Medical Deductions

• HUD allows seniors to deduct certain unreimbursed medical expenses to lower their adjusted income (and therefore their rent).
• If you are now paying more out of pocket due to Medicaid cuts or new co-pays, you may be eligible to claim a larger deduction.

Keep receipts and records of all your medical expenses. Talk to your property’s recertification staff or caseworker during your annual income review.

Effects on Medicaid and Medicare

• Medicaid work requirements introduced by OBBBA likely won’t apply to seniors, but funding cuts may reduce service availability, like home health care or transportation.
• Under the new law, Medicare coverage remains untouched for now, but reductions in related state services could still affect access.

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to review your benefits and see what’s changing in your state.

Nutrition Assistance Could Shrink

• The SNAP (food stamps) program has tighter work rules now, but these generally don’t apply to seniors.
• Still, overall funding cuts may mean delays, reduced amounts, or stricter eligibility checks.

If you notice reduced SNAP benefits, re-certify your SNAP benefits on time, and explore local food banks or senior meal programs.

Tenant-Based Voucher Portability Still Exists, But May Be Harder

• If you live in a HUD-subsidized unit using a Housing Choice Voucher, you still have the right to move to another unit or area, but voucher availability is shrinking due to federal cuts.
• Waitlists may get longer, and landlords may become more selective due to rising rents and fewer incentives.

If you’re thinking of relocating, contact your local Public Housing Authority early to understand your options.

Stay Aware of Tenant Rights and Recertification Rules

• Report any changes in your income, expenses, or household composition promptly to keep your subsidy.
• If your SNAP benefits decrease, your rent might actually increase, since we do not count SNAP benefits as income. However, reduced expenses may change your adjusted rent.

Request a meeting with your recertification officer or resident services coordinator to fully understand your entitlements under the new rules.

You’re Not Alone—Get Help from Housing Advocates

Many national and local organizations offer support to help seniors understand and fight for their housing rights:

• National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) (https://nlihc.org/)
• Justice in Aging (https://justiceinaging.org/)
• AARP’s Housing Advocacy (https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/housing/)

These groups are tracking changes like the OBBBA and offering legal resources and action alerts for seniors.

The post What Seniors in Subsidized Housing Need to Know Now appeared first on Navigate Housing.

HUD Secretary Scott Turner announced the aid alongside a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for the state of Mississippi.

“HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses after severe storms.”

Mississippi HUD Disaster Aid Begins with Foreclosure Protection

Immediately following the declaration, HUD issued a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for:

• FHA-insured mortgages
• Mortgages under HUD’s Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program
• Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs)

These actions provide critical breathing room for families facing housing insecurity in disaster-affected areas. HUD’s Office of Native American Programs has also reminded lenders and servicers of these protections.

For details, contact the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320 or visit the FHA Disaster Relief site.

HUD Mortgage and Repair Loans for Storm Recovery

To support long-term recovery, HUD is activating two key loan programs for Mississippi storm disaster housing aid:

• Section 203(h): Offers 100% FHA-insured financing for homeowners needing to rebuild or replace destroyed properties—including closing costs.
• Section 203(k): Allows residents to purchase or refinance and repair a home through one mortgage. This supports both buyers and existing homeowners.

These tools help residents quickly begin the work of rebuilding without the burden of multiple loan products.

Learn more on HUD’s Disaster Resources page.

Connecting Residents to Emergency Housing and Support

HUD is also working closely with FEMA and state agencies to match residents with available housing options. This includes:

• Vacancy updates from Public Housing Agencies (PHAs)
• Outreach to multifamily housing providers
• Access to subject matter experts for navigating HUD programs

This collaboration ensures that emergency housing is distributed equitably and efficiently to those in greatest need.

Administrative Flexibility for Local Recovery Programs

Grantees of federal housing and development programs in Mississippi can now request waivers to redirect funds toward disaster response. These include:

• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
• HOME Investment Partnerships
• Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
• Housing Trust Fund (HTF)
• Continuum of Care (CoC)
• Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA)

To apply for these waivers, contact your local CPD Field Office.

Additionally, Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in affected areas have the option to request waivers through HUD’s Disaster Relief Notice process. These must be submitted within four months of the disaster declaration. See waiver details in the Federal Register.

Free Housing Counseling and Discrimination Protection

Free Help from HUD-Approved Housing Counselors

Counselors are available to:

• Help homeowners explore mortgage relief
• Assist with housing transitions
• Explain federal recovery programs

Call 1-800-569-4287 or find an agency here. Services are always free and offered in more than 200 languages.

Reporting Housing Discrimination

Disasters can worsen housing discrimination, particularly for vulnerable groups. If you believe your rights have been violated:

• File a complaint at HUD Fair Housing
• Call HUD at 1-800-669-9777
• Deaf/hard of hearing? Use the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339

File within one year of the incident to ensure protection under the law.

Rebuilding Mississippi with Flexibility and Urgency

Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, Chair of the Senate Transportation-HUD Appropriations Subcommittee, emphasized the importance of this assistance:

“I appreciate HUD for making resources available… I hope areas covered by the disaster declaration can make good use of these tools.”

The Mississippi storm disaster housing aid package from HUD ensures affected communities have real, flexible tools to start again. Whether through mortgage relief, home rehabilitation loans, or emergency shelter coordination, HUD is actively helping residents rebuild stronger and safer.

Need immediate help?

Visit hud.gov/disasterresources. Or call the FHA Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320

The post Mississippi Storm Disaster Housing Aid: HUD Offers Urgent Relief for Residents appeared first on Navigate Housing.