Landlord Library - Big Bend Continuum of Care

Welcome to our Homelessness Landlord Resource page! We are dedicated to providing resources and support for landlords who want to help end homelessness in our community.

As a landlord, you have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and families experiencing homelessness. By providing safe and affordable housing options, you can help break the cycle of homelessness and provide stability and security for those in need.

Our goal is to be a resource for landlords who are interested in becoming part of the solution to homelessness. On this page and throughout our website, you will find information about:

The benefits of working with homeless individuals and families
How to navigate the rental process with homeless individuals and families
Resources for financial assistance and supportive services
Legal considerations for renting to homeless individuals and families
Success stories from landlords who have worked with homeless tenants

We also offer personalized support and guidance for landlords who want to get involved in ending homelessness. Whether you have questions about tenant screening, rent payment assistance, or other aspects of the rental process, we are here to help.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in our community. Thank you for considering becoming a part of our Homelessness Landlord Liaison program.

WHY SHOULD LANDLORDS WORK WITH HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES?

There are several reasons why landlords and property owners should consider working with homeless individuals and families:

Social Responsibility: As members of a community, landlords and property owners have a social responsibility to help those in need. By providing housing to homeless individuals and families, they are helping to address a pressing social issue.
Financial Incentives: There are financial incentives available to landlords and property owners who work with homeless individuals and families. For example, some cities offer tax credits or other incentives to landlords who provide affordable housing to low-income individuals or families.
Tenant Stability: Homeless individuals and families who are given a stable place to live are more likely to become good tenants, pay their rent on time, and take care of the property. This can help to reduce turnover and vacancy rates, which can ultimately benefit landlords and property owners.
Positive Public Relations: Landlords and property owners who work with homeless individuals and families can generate positive publicity for their business. By demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility, they can attract new tenants and investors who value community involvement.
Access to Resources: Landlords and property owners who work with homeless individuals and families can often access a range of resources, such as case management services, counseling, and other support services. These resources can help tenants to overcome barriers to housing stability and increase their chances of long-term success.

HOW TO NAVIGATE THE RENTAL PROCESS WITH HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

Landlords and property owners can play an important role in helping homeless individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing. Here are some tips on how they can navigate the rental process with this population:

Partner with organizations: Consider partnering with local organizations that provide services to homeless individuals and families, such as shelters, outreach programs, and social service agencies. These organizations can help connect you with potential tenants and provide support during the rental process.
Offer flexible lease terms: Homeless individuals and families may have difficulty meeting traditional rental requirements, such as a steady income or good credit history. Consider offering flexible lease terms, such as shorter lease agreements or lower security deposits, to make it easier for them to secure housing.
Consider rental subsidies: Many homeless individuals and families struggle to pay for housing due to limited income or financial instability. Consider accepting rental subsidies, such as Section 8 vouchers or other government programs, to make housing more affordable for this population.
Provide support services: Consider offering support services to help homeless tenants maintain their housing. This could include providing information on local social services, connecting them with job training programs or employment opportunities, or offering financial counseling.
Foster a welcoming environment: Creating a welcoming environment can help homeless individuals and families feel more comfortable and secure in their new homes. Consider offering move-in incentives, such as free rent for the first month or a welcome basket, to help make their transition to housing easier.

By partnering with local organizations, offering flexible lease terms, accepting rental subsidies, providing support services, and creating a welcoming environment, landlords and property owners can help homeless individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.

LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR RENTING TO HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

There are several legal considerations for renting to homeless individuals and families, including:

Fair Housing Act: Landlords cannot discriminate against tenants on the basis of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability status. This means that landlords cannot refuse to rent to homeless individuals or families simply because they are homeless.
Landlord-Tenant Laws: Landlords must comply with the landlord-tenant laws in their state, which may include requirements for security deposits, eviction procedures, and rent increases. Landlords must also provide habitable living conditions, including working utilities and basic amenities.
Rental Agreements: Landlords should have a written rental agreement that outlines the terms of the tenancy, including the rent amount, payment due dates, and any rules or regulations for the property.
Background Checks: Landlords may conduct background checks on prospective tenants, but they must do so in compliance with fair housing and tenant screening laws. This means that landlords cannot use criminal history or other screening criteria that disproportionately affect homeless individuals or families.
Supportive Housing Programs: Landlords may participate in supportive housing programs, which provide rental subsidies and supportive services to homeless individuals and families. These programs may have specific eligibility requirements and program guidelines that landlords must follow.

Overall, landlords must balance their legal obligations with their desire to help homeless individuals and families. It is important for landlords to understand their legal responsibilities and seek guidance from legal professionals as needed.

LANDLORD RESOURCE LIBRARY

Fair Housing Law

Important Fact Sheets for Apartment Living

Landlord Resources

Pet Deposits & Pet Laws

Miscellaneous Resources