PUBLIC HOUSING
Public Housing in Lima, Ohio is run by AMHA and helps under resourced families, seniors, and people with disabilities find safe and affordable places to live. The program is funded by the federal government and includes properties owned and managed by AMHA.
​
To apply, fill out an application to join the waiting list. When your name reaches the top, AMHA’s Intake Department will contact you for a screening. You must pass the screening to be approved.
​
To check your application status, call the Intake Department at 419-228-6065.
Understanding the Public Housing Program:
HOUSE RULES
I. RESPONSIBILITIES
AMHA Responsibilities:
AMHA will apply housing standards fairly and equally to all residents. Each unit will be inspected once a year to make sure it meets these standards.
If the first inspection shows problems, AMHA will tell you what needs to be fixed and may offer training to help you understand how to meet the requirements. A second inspection will be scheduled within a reasonable time.
Resident Responsibilities:
Tenants must follow the House Rules and maintain their unit according to the standards.
Failing to follow these rules—especially if it creates a health or safety risk—violates the lease and may lead to eviction.
II. OCCUPANTS
Only the people listed on your lease are allowed to live in your unit permanently.
If you want to add someone—like a live-in aide or foster child—you must get written approval from AMHA before they move in. This rule does not apply to natural births or legal adoptions.
III. RENTAL PAYMENTS
-
Rent is due on or before the 1st of each month.
-
​If rent is paid after the 5th, a late fee will be charged.
-
Partial payments are not accepted.
-
​Repeated late payments may lead to termination of your lease.
Where to Pay:
Rent should be paid at 600 S. Main St. or another location if directed by AMHA. Checks or money orders are preferred.
Returned Checks:
If your check is returned for any reason, it will count as late rent and a service charge will be added, no matter when it was submitted.
Security Deposits:
Your security deposit will be either one month’s rent or $200, whichever is greater. This deposit protects the unit against damage beyond normal wear and tear.
After you move out and return your keys, AMHA will inspect your unit. You’ll receive a final bill showing any charges for damages.
-
If there are no charges, you’ll get a full refund.
-
If there are charges, the remaining balance will be mailed to your last known address within 30 days of move-out.
IV. CLEANING STANDARDS
To help keep AMHA properties safe, clean, and comfortable for all residents, the following cleaning standards must be followed. If you need help meeting these standards, training may be available—just ask!
​
INSIDE THE UNIT - Keep Your Home Clean and Safe
-
Clean walls regularly—no dirt, grease, holes, or cobwebs.
-
Floors should be clear, dry, and hazard-free.
-
Dust woodwork and keep it free from scratches.
-
Ceilings and corners should be clean and free of cobwebs.
-
Clean windows and blinds; do not nail windows shut.
-
Keep doors clean, with working locks and proper doorstops.
-
Heating units should be dusted and easily accessible.
-
Do not leave trash inside your unit.
-
Keep the unit free of bugs and rodents.
-
Avoid damage beyond normal wear and tear.
-
Do not cover windows with non-traditional items like sheets, foil, or paper bags.
​
KITCHEN - Maintain Food Safety and Cleanliness
-
Keep the stove clean—no food or grease buildup.
-
Keep the fridge clean and the freezer door working properly.
-
Wipe up spills on counters and inside cabinets.
-
Avoid overloading cabinets; store only small, light items under the sink.
-
Keep the exhaust fan clean.
-
Clean the sink and wash dishes promptly.
-
Store trash in covered containers until it’s removed.
​
BATHROOM - Clean and Odor-Free
-
Clean the toilet, sink, and tank—keep them odor-free.
-
Bathtub and shower must be clean, with mildew under control.
-
Use a proper shower curtain.
-
Clean the exhaust fan and floors.
​
STORAGE AREAS - Stay Neat and Safe
-
Keep closets neat; don’t store flammable items inside your unit.
-
Storage areas must be clean and free of hazards.
​
OUTSIDE THE APARTMENT (FOR FAMILY AND SCATTER SITE UNITS)
-
Yard must be free of trash and abandoned vehicles.
-
No graffiti or grease on walls.
-
Don’t damage landscaping. If you’re responsible for yard care, grass must be between 3" and 5" tall.
-
Keep porches, steps, and sidewalks clear and clean.
-
Storm doors must be clean and in good shape.
-
No car repairs or unregistered cars on the property.
-
Keep stairwells and laundry areas clean; remove lint after use.
-
Utility rooms must be free of clutter and flammable items.
-
No swimming pools, ponds, or trampolines are allowed on AMHA property.
​​
Following these standards helps everyone enjoy clean, safe, and respectful living conditions.
V. REDECORATION
Tenants are not allowed to redecorate their unit without written permission from AMHA. This includes:
​
-
Painting
-
Adding wallpaper
-
Installing carpet
​​
Always get approval first before making any changes to your unit.
VI. NOISE AND CONSIDERATION FOR OTHERS
Residents and their guests must use good judgment and be respectful of others when:
​
-
Playing musical instruments
-
Using stereos, radios, or TVs
-
Entering or leaving the unit, especially late at night or early in the morning
Always be mindful of your neighbors and keep noise levels down to maintain a peaceful living environment.
VII. PEST CONTROL
AMHA provides regular pest control services in multi-family buildings. If you notice pests, contact the Maintenance Department to request service. When treatment is scheduled, you’ll need to prepare your unit as instructed—such as clearing out cabinets.
​
Residents in single-family units will be billed for pest control services if treatment is needed.
VIII. CRIMINAL ACTIVITY
Tenants are responsible for any illegal drug use or criminal activity committed by any household member or guest, whether it happens on or off AMHA property.
Violations may result in lease termination and eviction.
IX. REFUSE AND TRASH
All garbage, trash, and food waste must be placed in AMHA-provided containers or dumpsters and kept in a clean and safe way.
​
Do not leave trash outside in non-designated areas or containers at any time.
X. MISCELLANEOUS RULES & POLICIES
Here are important rules every tenant must follow to maintain a safe, respectful, and well-kept community:
​
UTILITIES AND PROPERTY USE
-
Don’t waste water, electricity, or heat if AMHA pays for these services.
-
No alterations or repairs (like painting or installing appliances) without AMHA’s written permission.
-
You are responsible for damage or overflow (like water from tubs or sinks) that affects your unit or others.
-
Report any accidents, leaks, or damage to AMHA immediately.
-
Don’t store or use flammable materials, and don’t use other heating or cooling systems beyond what AMHA provides.
​
GENERAL APARTMENT & BUILDING RULES
-
No wires or antennas may be hung from windows or buildings.
-
AMHA staff have the right to enter your apartment during reasonable hours for inspections or repairs.
-
AMHA can restrict people from the property if there is a valid reason.
-
You are responsible for your personal property. Renters’ insurance is recommended.
-
Legal notices may be delivered in person or by mail. If you're visually impaired, notices must be accessible.
PARKING RULES
-
No unregistered or broken-down vehicles. They may be towed after 24 hours.
-
All vehicles must be registered and show an AMHA parking permit.
-
No parking on lawns, and use only designated parking spots.
-
Handicapped spots are for vehicles with proper tags.
-
No car washing or repairs are allowed on the property.
PETS
-
See the AMHA Pet Policy for details.
​
RESIDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Children must be supervised at all times.
-
Laundry rooms are for residents only. No children allowed. Do not leave laundry unattended.
-
You’re responsible for your guests’ behavior. Furl Williams residents must register guests (except medical/government staff).
-
Report guests staying longer than 3 days in writing to AMHA.
-
No dishwashers, freezers, or large appliances without written approval. No washers/dryers allowed at Furl Williams. Extra charges may apply for unauthorized appliances.
-
Report all needed repairs to AMHA immediately.
-
You may be charged for damage that’s not normal wear and tear.
-
AMHA may enter your unit for repairs during working hours with permission.
-
Preventative maintenance will be scheduled with 24-hour notice.
-
It’s best if you're home during repairs.
​
LOCKS, PAINTING, AND ALTERATIONS
-
No extra locks or changing keys without written approval.
-
Only AMHA may paint or change paint colors, unless you have written consent.
-
No changes or alterations to the unit without permission.
-
Don’t shake rugs or mops out windows or on balconies.
-
No drying clothes on balconies.
-
Don’t drive nails or screws into walls or woodwork without permission.
​
SHARED AREAS
-
No loitering, lounging, or sitting on steps, stairways, landings, or hallways in multi-unit buildings.
LOCKOUTS
-
If you are locked out, AMHA will charge a service fee.
-
During work hours: current maintenance wage
-
After hours: overtime wage
-
Only people listed on the lease can be let in unless you give written approval.
​
AMHA RIGHTS
-
AMHA may update or change these rules to ensure safety, cleanliness, and comfort for all residents.