Guide to Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Properties in North Dakota

Finding safe, affordable housing is a priority for many renters in North Dakota, especially those facing financial constraints or rent increases. One of the primary resources for affordable rentals is the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. If you are looking for information on LIHTC properties, eligibility, and how to secure your rights as a renter in North Dakota, this guide is designed for you.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

LIHTC properties are apartments or rental homes that have been built or renovated under the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. In North Dakota, these affordable units are managed in partnership with the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) and are designed to offer below-market rent to income-eligible individuals and families.

• Residences are reserved for households earning at or below certain income limits.
• Rent is restricted and set based on federally established guidelines.
• Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and often apply directly to the property manager.

Who Is Eligible for LIHTC Housing?

Eligibility for LIHTC units is based mainly on your household income:

• Your income must be below a certain percentage of the area median income (AMI) as defined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
• Some LIHTC properties have additional requirements, like senior or special needs status.
• You may be rejected if you have negative rental history or fail other screening criteria.

Property managers can provide the current income limits for a specific building or city.

How to Find and Apply for LIHTC Properties in North Dakota

To locate LIHTC properties, start with the NDHFA's Affordable Housing Directory. Each listing provides contact information and eligibility details. The application process typically involves:

• Contacting the property manager to request an application.
• Providing documentation such as income proof, identification, and rental history.
• Filling out property-specific forms upon request.
• Waiting for screening and, if necessary, placement on a waiting list.

If your application is denied and you believe it’s unfair or you experience discrimination, you have the right to seek help from the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights or file a fair housing complaint.

Key Form: North Dakota Housing Application

The primary form you may encounter is the North Dakota Uniform Rental Application, used by many affordable housing properties statewide. While there is no single state-mandated form, most LIHTC managers have a standardized application based on NDHFA recommendations. Always request the official application directly from the property manager or download from the official NDHFA directory listing if available.

• When and how used: Use this application when applying for any LIHTC or subsidized property in North Dakota. You’ll typically submit it, along with copies of your photo ID and verification of income (like pay stubs or benefit statements), directly to the property’s managing office.
• Official NDHFA Rental Application Information

How North Dakota Law Protects LIHTC Renters

Renters in LIHTC properties have the same rights and responsibilities as tenants elsewhere, with additional protections under federal law. In North Dakota, tenants’ rights and responsibilities are set out in the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 - Landlord and Tenant.¹

• Landlords must provide a habitable living space and make necessary repairs.
• Evictions must follow proper notice and legal process.
• Rent increases are limited by the terms of your lease and LIHTC program guidelines.

If you need to resolve a legal dispute or respond to an eviction, these cases are typically handled by the North Dakota Court System, which oversees landlord-tenant matters.

FAQ: LIHTC Properties and Renter Rights in North Dakota

1. How do I apply for a LIHTC property in North Dakota?
   You can search for available properties on the NDHFA Affordable Housing Directory and submit your application directly to the property manager, typically along with income and identity verification.
2. Can my rent increase in a LIHTC property?
   Yes, but only within the restrictions set by the LIHTC program and your lease. Rent cannot be increased above federal maximums for LIHTC units and any increase must follow North Dakota notice rules.
3. Who helps resolve disputes between renters and LIHTC landlords?
   The North Dakota Court System handles landlord-tenant disputes. For discrimination or fair housing concerns, you can also contact the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights.
4. Are there priority groups for LIHTC housing?
   Priority is sometimes given to seniors, people with disabilities, or by other property-specific criteria, but most eligibility is based on income.
5. What official documents do I need to apply?
   Typically, a completed rental application, photo identification, and proof of income (such as pay stubs or benefit letters) are required.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• LIHTC properties offer important affordable housing options for income-qualified renters.
• You must meet income limits and apply directly through property managers using official forms or applications.
• Your rights as a LIHTC tenant in North Dakota are protected under state and federal law, including the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16.

If you have questions or run into issues with your housing, local resources and state agencies are available to help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Housing Finance Agency – Renter Information: LIHTC property listings and guidance
• ND Department of Labor and Human Rights: Fair housing complaints and tenant advocacy
• Legal Services of North Dakota: Free or low-cost legal assistance for renters
• North Dakota Court System – Find Your Local Court: Small claims, eviction, and landlord-tenant dispute resolution
• North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant Law

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant

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