October 2026 Section 8 Newsletter
Housing Authority of Darlington
324 Bacote Street, Darlington, SC 29532
About the Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, is a federal program that helps very low-income families, older adults, and people with disabilities afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Because assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants may choose their own eligible housing, including single-family homes, town homes, or apartments. Vouchers administered by Darlington Housing must be used within Darlington County.
Life Changes - Changes in Income or Household Size
If your income changes or household members move in or out of your home, you must notify your housing agency. For changes due to birth, adoption, or court-awarded custody, simply inform the Public Housing Agency (PHA). To add any other household member, you must receive PHA approval first.
The PHA will review your information to determine whether your rent or unit size should change. All voucher participants must also complete an annual reexamination to confirm continued eligibility. Respond promptly to requests from your housing agency so you remain in good standing. If you have questions about your voucher status, contact your housing agency or HUD field office for assistance.
How to Resolve Issues with Your Rental Unit
If you have concerns about the safety or condition of your home, report the issue right away. Depending on the concern, a special inspection may be needed. Do not wait until the problem becomes serious. Contact your owner or property manager, keep a note of the date you made the request, and follow up if the issue is not addressed. If the problem remains unresolved, contact your Housing Specialist, Mrs. Melissa Walker.
Unit Information
Understanding the details of your tenancy can help you maintain a comfortable living environment and a positive relationship with both your landlord and the housing agency.
Pets
As a Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) tenant, review the following information before keeping a pet in your rental unit.
Check Pet Policies
Review the landlord's pet policy. Before moving in, confirm whether pets are allowed. Some landlords allow pets, while others have strict no-pet policies.
Ask about fees and deposits. If pets are allowed, the landlord may require a pet deposit, monthly pet rent, or both. Clarify these costs before signing the lease. Review the pet agreement. If pets are permitted, make sure the lease includes a pet agreement that explains all rules, fees, and responsibilities.
Landlords - A Very Special Thank You to Our Landlords
Thank you for accepting Section 8 housing vouchers and approving eligible applicants. Your participation helps families secure safe, clean, and stable housing, which makes a meaningful difference in their lives.
We Appreciate Your Partnership
We understand that participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program requires extra paperwork, coordination, and communication with our office. We truly appreciate your time, patience, and willingness to work with us throughout the process.
Rent Increase
After the tenant has lived in the unit for one (1) year, the rent may increase. The landlord must give the tenant a letter sixty (60) days before the effective date. The same letter that goes to the tenant must be given to the Housing Authority simultaneously. We will compare the increase to other units in the area. If reasonable, please keep in mind, any repairs that the unit requires must be completed before the increase is processed.
Our Commitment
As your point of contact, we remain committed to an open-door policy and are available to discuss questions or concerns as they arise. We look forward to supporting a positive relationship between you and your tenant.
Mrs. Jaime Steen, Executive Director, 843-393-0436 extension 2000
Ms. Melissa Walker, Housing Specialist, 843-393-0436 extension 2005
Mrs. Karen Beedy, Inspector, 843-496-8519 (office cell)
