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Chester Housing Authority

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Public Housing

The Application Process

The CHA occasionally opens its waiting list for specific intervals of time to receive program applications. The CHA will provide information regarding the application process for the public housing waiting list on this website, in the Delaware County Times, Chester Spirit, at administrative offices and at public housing sites.

While on the waiting list, applicants must notify the CHA of changes in household and contact information.

Eligibility

Initial eligibility is determined by household income, household size and citizenship or legal immigrant status, and admission preferences. Other tenant selection criteria include renter history and personal reference checks, home interviews, and a housekeeping evaluation.

Applicants must also pass screening for violent or drug-related criminal activity.

Debts owed to the Chester Housing Authority or any other Housing Authority must be satisfied prior to admission.

Rent

Tenants have the option of selecting Income Based Rent, which is based on 30% of the adjusted income with applicable allowances and deductions included, or the Flat Rent. Residents pay their own utilities at Chatham Estates. Conversion to tenant-paid utilities for the William Penn and Ruth Bennett Homes is coming soon.

Rent is due on the first day of the month. Residents have until the 5th day of the month to pay. Unpaid rent after the 5th day of the month is subject to a $1 a day late fee, or a fee up to $30 a month.

Changes in Household Income

Residents are responsible for notifying the CHA of any changes in income that may affect their share of the rent.

Changes in Family Size

Changes in the number of household members due to birth, death, or other occurrence should be reported as soon as possible. In some cases, a change in family size will require a move to a larger or smaller unit.

Security Deposit

The Security Deposit is equal to one month’s rent. The security deposit covers the potential cost of damage caused by you, your family or guests and will be returned in full if you have complied with the terms of the lease. Costs to clean and repair the unit (beyond normal wear and tear) will be withheld from the security deposit. Units will be inspected prior to the return of the security deposit.

Moving

If you decide to move out, you must give at least 30 days notice to your property manager—in writing. If the move-out notice is turned in after the 5th, you will have to pay another month's rent.

One Strike Policy

The CHA has a priority to eradicate violence and drugs around its communities. The CHA adopted a One Strike and You’re Out Policy and expects all residents to participate in anti-drug/anti-crime efforts.

Lease Enforcement

Serious or repeated violations of the lease agreement will result in eviction. Serious violations include but are not limited to:

  • Violating the One Strike and You're Out Policy
  • Non-payment of rent
  • Four (4) late rent payments in a one year period
  • Fires caused by tenant neglect