Understanding LIHTC Housing: Pennsylvania Renters' Guide

Many Pennsylvania renters searching for affordable housing encounter the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. Understanding how LIHTC properties work, your eligibility, rights, and the forms you might need can help you secure stable, affordable housing—and know what to do if issues arise.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

LIHTC properties are apartments or rental homes built or rehabilitated using federal tax credits. In Pennsylvania, these properties must set aside a certain number of units for low-income renters, with rents capped at affordable levels. The program is overseen by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) and aims to help tenants with low or moderate incomes access good-quality, affordable homes.¹

How LIHTC Apartments Stay Affordable

Landlords who receive LIHTC funding agree to rent some or all of their units at reduced rates, called "restricted rents." These rents are based on a percentage of the area median income (AMI), helping to keep housing affordable for lower-income families. Rent increases are limited by law and must stay within program guidelines.

Eligibility for LIHTC Housing in Pennsylvania

To qualify for a LIHTC property:

• Your household income usually must be below 60% of the AMI for your region.
• You may need to provide proof of income and household composition.
• Some properties prioritize certain groups, such as seniors or people with disabilities.

How to Find and Apply for LIHTC Housing

Start your search on the PHFA LIHTC Property List, which updates regularly. Each property manages its own waitlist and application process, so it's best to contact buildings directly. Application forms may vary by property.

Key Renter Rights in LIHTC Properties

LIHTC renters have the same protections as other tenants in Pennsylvania, plus extra federal rights:

• Rent limits based on income and location
• Protection from discrimination under the Fair Housing Act
• Procedural safeguards against unfair eviction or rent termination ²

Renters and landlords in Pennsylvania operate under the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951. This law spells out rights and obligations for both sides, including rules around security deposits, repairs, and eviction.

Official Forms for LIHTC Renters in Pennsylvania

While there is no single "LIHTC renter application form" statewide, you may use the following official forms in common rental situations:

• PHFA Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
  Reasonable Accommodation Request Form (for tenants with disabilities seeking a change to rules or policies). Example: You require a support animal in a "no pets" building; complete and submit this form to your housing provider.
• Tenant Complaint Form (Philadelphia Only)
  Tenant Complaint Form (for Philadelphia city tenants needing to report unsafe conditions or violations to city authorities). Example: You report a persistent mold issue not addressed by your landlord.
• Notice of Lease Termination (no official statewide form—sample templates available from PHFA or local legal aid). Tenants use this if they plan to move out in accordance with lease or program requirements.

Who Handles LIHTC Complaints?

For disputes about LIHTC rights, discrimination, or eligibility, contact the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Multifamily Program or, for rental disputes, the local Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas in your county. In Philadelphia, complaints may go to the Philadelphia Municipal Court - Landlord Tenant Division.

The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 remains the main Pennsylvania rental law protecting LIHTC tenants.³

FAQ: Pennsylvania LIHTC Renters’ Questions

1. What does it mean if a property is LIHTC in Pennsylvania?
   It means the property offers affordable rental units to income-eligible tenants, with capped rents and certain federal protections.
2. Can my rent go up in a LIHTC property?
   Yes, but only within federal program limits and after proper notice. Increases must comply with income and rent rules for that property.
3. How do I apply for LIHTC housing?
   Contact the LIHTC property directly using the statewide property list and follow their application instructions.
4. Who do I contact if I have a problem with my LIHTC landlord?
   Start with building management, then escalate to PHFA or your local Court of Common Pleas if needed.
5. Are there special protections against eviction for LIHTC renters?
   Yes, LIHTC renters have federal protections and state rights. Landlords must follow procedures for any eviction.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Pennsylvania Renters

• LIHTC properties help make good-quality apartments affordable for low-income renters across Pennsylvania.
• You have rights under federal LIHTC rules and the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951.
• Always use official forms and resources; seek help if you’re unsure or if problems arise.

Understanding your rights and the application process can make navigating affordable rental housing much smoother.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• PHFA Housing Resources – Affordable housing programs and contacts statewide
• PHFA LIHTC Property List – Find and contact LIHTC properties directly
• Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas – File complaints or respond to legal disputes with landlords
• PHFA Multifamily Department – Report housing violations or concerns about eligibility/fair housing
• Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 – Full text of Pennsylvania’s main rental law

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1. Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency – Housing Resources
2. PHFA – LIHTC Compliance and Monitoring Manual
3. Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 (Pennsylvania General Assembly)

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