From Tiara Pitts, Esq. SCR Director of Fair Housing Policy:

What is a section 8 voucher?

In South Carolina, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federal program that assists low-income families, the elderly, and disabled individuals by providing rental assistance. This voucher covers a portion of the rent, which is paid directly to the landlord, while the tenant is responsible for the remainder. The program aims to make housing affordable for qualifying tenants while ensuring landlords receive fair compensation.

Do’s

  1. Familiarize yourself with Fair Housing Laws.

    1. Contact SCR Legal Hotline with any fair housing related questions or to set up fair housing training for your brokerage.

  2. Treat All Applicants Equally:

    1. Whether a prospective tenant is paying with traditional income or through a housing voucher, they must receive the same professional service and consideration.

  3. Understand Program Requirements:

    1. Know how housing vouchers, like Section 8, work, and ensure that you explain the process clearly to both landlords and tenants.

    2. Housing Choice Vouchers Fact Sheet

Don’ts

  1. Avoid Assumptions:

    1. Do not assume that working with housing vouchers is more "hassle" or complicated. Blanket rejections or reluctance to work with voucher holders can be viewed as discriminatory and lead to legal repercussions.

  2. Discriminate Against Voucher Holders:

    1. Just as you would not discriminate based on race, gender, or disability, rejecting an applicant solely because they use a voucher as part of their income could increase the risk of a fair housing violation or legal repercussions.

This information is only accurate as of 10/16/24. You must contact SCR for updates and changes to this information after 10/16/24 as laws and regulations may change over time. SCR 803-772-5206 or email info at screaltors.org or email byron at screaltors.org)

This information is not legal advice. This information is intended only to provide general information and may not be relied upon as specific legal guidance. Legal counsel should always be consulted before acting in reliance on this information.