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.

Join the Public Housing Wait List

FAQs

House Rules

Maintenance and Emergency Repairs

portrait-of-a-happy-family-playing-together-with-w-2025-04-06-03-35-22-utc.png

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Housing Choice Vouchers?

Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) help very low-income families afford safe, decent, and affordable homes. Families with a voucher can choose to rent privately-owned houses, apartments, or townhomes that meet program rules.
Who Can Apply for Housing Choice Vouchers?

Very low-income families—those earning less than 50% of the area's median income—can apply. In some cases, families earning up to 80% of the median income may also qualify. This includes families already getting housing help or those displaced by public housing changes. HUD updates income limits each year based on where you live.
How Does AMHA Decide if a Family Qualifies by Income?

AMHA looks at the family’s total yearly income (before taxes) and compares it to the income limits set by HUD for the area. These limits change based on how many people are in the family. To qualify, the family’s income must be at or below the limit.
How Do Families Get a Housing Choice Voucher?

Families must apply through a Public Housing Agency (PHA) like AMHA. When a family reaches the top of the waiting list and is found eligible, AMHA will give them a Housing Choice Voucher.
I Got a Letter Saying I Was Selected—When Will I Get My Voucher?

It may take six months to two years for AMHA to process all the families on the waiting list. Be sure to keep your address up to date. If you move, contact the Intake Department and fill out a Waiting List Update Form so you don’t miss important updates.
Do You Offer Emergency Housing Help?

No, AMHA does not provide emergency housing through its Public Housing or Housing Choice Voucher programs. The HCVP waiting list is usually closed. When it opens, we announce it in local newspapers, on this website, our Facebook page, and in other community locations. To see if the Public Housing waiting list for your bedroom size is open, click Apply Now on our website. You can also call our office, and the receptionist will let you know which lists are currently accepting applications.
My Voucher Expired—Can I Get an Extension?

Vouchers are good for 60 days. You can ask for more time, especially if you need it as a reasonable accommodation. However, requests made after your voucher expires are usually not approved. Extensions are not guaranteed and are decided by the Section 8 Manager. For help, contact your Intake Specialist or Occupancy Specialist for more information about your options.
How Do I Get a Signed Contract?

To get a signed contract, the landlord and family must sign a lease that matches the HCV contract in both start/end dates and monthly rent. The unit must also pass inspection, and the landlord must agree to the rent amount approved by HCV.
Can I Rent from a Family Member?

In most cases, you cannot rent from your parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, or spouse. However, if a family member has a disability, AMHA may allow it as a reasonable accommodation. If approved, AMHA will send written notice to both the family and the landlord.
Does AMHA Pay the Security Deposit?

No. Tenants are responsible for paying or securing the security deposit on their own. AMHA does not cover this cost.
When Should I Pay a Security Deposit?

Talk to the landlord to find out when and if you need to pay a security deposit. Always get the return policy in writing—especially if you don’t end up signing the lease. Most deposits are equal to one month’s rent.
Who Pays the Utilities?

The landlord and tenant decide who pays each utility. These details must be clearly listed in the lease and the housing assistance payments contract.
How Much Will HCV Pay for My Home?

The landlord sets the rent based on what they would charge a tenant without assistance. HCV will then compare that rent to similar homes in the area. The final amount of assistance depends on that comparison, the results of the inspection, and program payment standards.
How Does a Family Find a Home After Getting a Voucher?

Once a family gets a voucher, it’s their job to find a home that meets their needs. The home must pass an inspection, have reasonable rent, and meet all program rules. If approved, AMHA signs a contract with the landlord to begin paying rent on the family’s behalf. If the family later moves out, the contract ends. They can take their assistance with them and use a new voucher to find a different home. Families can search in many ways, but we recommend checking www.affordablehousing.com, where landlords can list available rentals.
How Much Rent Does a Voucher Cover?

AMHA pays the difference between 30% of the family’s adjusted income and either the payment standard set by AMHA or the unit’s total rent (including utilities)—whichever is less. When first moving in, the family’s share of rent and utilities cannot be more than 40% of their income. After the first lease ends, their portion may be higher depending on rent changes.
Why Do I Have to Pay Rent If I Have HCV?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) helps with rent, but it doesn’t cover the full amount. You still pay part of the rent based on your income, family size, deductions, and the cost of the unit. HCV is rental assistance—not free rent.
When Can I Move In?

You can move in after the landlord agrees to the rent amount and AMHA sets an approved move-in date. AMHA will not pay for any days before the unit passes the initial inspection.
Do Families Have to Lease a Unit in the Same Area Where They Got the Voucher?

If the family already lives in the PHA’s area, they can use their voucher anywhere in the U.S. where they qualify. But if they applied from outside the area, they must use the voucher within the PHA’s jurisdiction for the first year.
Can I Use My Voucher in the AMHA Area If It Was Issued Somewhere Else?

Yes, you can transfer (or "port") your voucher to the AMHA coverage area. AMHA may either bill your current housing authority or choose to absorb your voucher. To get started, let your current PHA know that you want to port to AMHA.
I Missed My Inspection—What Should I Do?

If you weren’t home, the inspector will do an exterior-only inspection. It’s your responsibility—or your landlord’s—to call AMHA and reschedule. The deadline to pass the inspection stays the same, so don’t wait. If you miss two inspections, AMHA may start the process to end your housing assistance. Call as soon as possible to reschedule.