Opportunity Home board Approves Changes to Public Housing Lease to Reduce Fees for Tenants
February 7, 2020
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In an effort to continue assisting low-income residents already experiencing hardship, the Opportunity Home San Antonio (Opportunity Home) Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the reduction of fees charged to public housing tenants for late payment of rent, unauthorized pets, unauthorized parking and other related charges.
The new lease fee changes will be effective on March 1, 2020.
The most impact change is the reduction of rent late payments. Rent is due and payable on the first day of each month and is considered delinquent after the fifth business day of the month. Tenants are charged a $30 initial late fee. A second $20 late was charged after the 15th of the month if the balance was not paid in full.
Through the new lease agreement, fee will be lowered from $30 to 10% of a tenant’s rent, resulting in a minimum fee of $1 and the maximum fee of $30. The second late fee was removed.
Other reductions in fees include:
Reducing Unauthorized Pet Fees
- Registering pets will be easier and residents can avoid costly fees.
- A 24-hour written notice will be given to residents before charges are made
- The total amount caps at $200 total per household ($10/day)
- Fee charges may be applied to the deposit made if pet registration is approved
Capping Maintenance Charges
Fees related to unauthorized parking, pet waste remove, and trash pick-up fees will be capped at
a maximum of $50 per month.
Previously, no such cap existed.