What to know about eviction and contacting the IHA for Section 8 renters
Dear neighbors,
In a recent investigation by Mirror Indy into the public housing authority, information on how the Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) manages its Section 8 voucher program was revealed. While many questions for Section 8 renters remain unanswered, here are some things to know:
Contacting IHA:
Contact listed IHA email address and phone numbers here.
Meet with your case manager during “Walk-in Wednesdays” that are held 1-3 p.m. every other Wednesday at IHA headquarters (1935 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46202). A schedule for 2025 has not been posted, however, visit www.indyhousing.org/news-events/ to view recent news/events from the IHA.
Speak during the public comment portions of the agency’s board meetings, which are typically held at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at 546 E. 17th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.
What to do if IHA isn’t paying your landlord:
If you discover the IHA failed to pay its portion of tenants’ rent, continue to pay your portion of the rent and keep ALL receipts of your payments. Landlords are not permitted to evict a Section 8 tenant because of IHA’s failure to pay its portion. A contract that landlords have with IHA dictates the agency’s failure to pay its portion is “not a violation of the lease” and cannot be used to evict a renter.
What to do if your landlord files an eviction:
First and foremost, attend your court date.
There are two parts of the eviction process - the hearing for possession, when the judge decides if you are to be evicted and/or when you have to move out. Then at a later date, a hearing for damages when the judge determines if either party owes for rent and/or damages.
Inform the judge and attorney you work with that you have a Section 8 voucher.
Get access to a free attorney through the Office of Public Health and Safety’s Tenant Advocacy Project. Reach the Tenant Information Hotline at 317-327-2228.
Keep a record of communication with your landlord including any documentation from IHA that proves you have a voucher. A “Tenant Lease Addendum,” is often attached to your leased that provides this information.
For documentation, make three copies of everything - one copy for you, one for the court, and one for your landlord. If you do not have access to a printer, you can print documents at your local library branch for a fraction of a dollar.
Finding your court location:
Most cases are filed in the township court where you live, but check for your case at the Marion Superior Court at the Community Justice Campus.
You can access information on your case at mycase.in.gov.
Thank you to Mirror Indy for their coverage on this crucial issue that is affecting our most vulnerable communities. To reference their article on this issue, click here.
As always, please reach out to my office at h98@iga.in.gov if you have any questions or concerns.