WORCETER – The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) ended its practice of requiring new tenants to provide the last month of rent and a security deposit before moving in. The change, which went into effect on Aug. 17, requires new tenants to provide only rent for the first month to take occupancy.
WHA CEO Alex Corrales made the reccomendation for the policy change to the board, which voted to approve the policy.
“We are well aware of the financial challenges facing so many people, with inflation increasing the cost of food, gas, and other necessities.” said Board Chair Joseph Carlson. With all that, we feel the policy as currently constituted served to place an undue burden on prospective tenants, and actually discouraged or prevented them from accepting a unit.”
Corrales also noted the admnistrative costs and challenges of processing and managing accounts for each security and last month’s rent deposit. He said the policy had a negative impact on rent collection and vacancy turnaround.
According to Corrales, tenants find it difficult to pay triple the rent before moving in. While there are public assistance programs that can cover the expense, the application process can delay tenants moving in.
“The policy has created additional stress and burdens for tenants, and has strained our resources as well,” Corrales said. This will help us lease up available units more quickly, and that is particularly important at a time when so many people need a place to live.”
Image Courtesy of Worcester Housing Authority
