TDAP/Renters Program Frequently Asked Questions - NYC Housing Recovery

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Warranty

Acquisition

Elevation Certificate

Flood Insurance

Tenant Resources

Temporary Housing Services

Counseling

Forms

Info Sheets

FAQs

NYC Build It Back Online Portal


TDAP / Renters Program FAQ

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What is the Temporary Disaster Assistance Program?

The Temporary Disaster Assistance Program (TDAP) offers temporary rental subsidies and housing referral assistance to New York City's low-income renters who remain displaced from their homes as a result of Hurricane Sandy. The type of assistance offered depends on household income. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is administering TDAP.

Who is eligible for TDAP?

Initial income eligibility is determined through the central Build It Back 311 intake process. Income and other eligibility factors are further reviewed and confirmed by the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

How do I find out if I am eligible for TDAP?

The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) will determine whether you are eligible for the TDAP rental subsidy program, housing referral services, or neither. TDAP representatives have called every registrant, using the contact information provided at registration.

If your contact information has changed and you have not notified the Program, please call 212-615-8329.

TDAP applicants will be scheduled for an application workshop and further instructions will be provided. Housing referral registrants will be called for an interview with a housing placement coordinator.

Once an applicant is eligible for TDAP, what happens?

The eligible applicants attend a TDAP Briefing at the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) where they receive a TDAP coupon and Landlord Package, which they will use to search for an apartment. Applicants have 120 days in which to complete their search and return a completed Landlord Package.

Next, HPD inspects the proposed apartment to assess its safety and reviews the proposed rent to ensure that it does not exceed rents for comparable units. HPD then executes a Rental Assistance Contract with the landlord. The landlord executes a lease with the tenant, and the tenant moves into the subsidized unit.

How much subsidy does TDAP provide?

The TDAP subsidy is paid directly to the landlord and covers the difference between 30% of the renter's monthly household income and the approved contract rent, up to 110% of the Fair Market Rent (FMR). The exact subsidy is determined at the time of admission into TDAP, after household income has been documented and contract rent has been approved. If household income changes during the subsidy period, the household may request an interim income recertification, and the subsidy will be adjusted accordingly. Subsidy is provided for a maximum of two (2) years unless there is a duplication of benefits at which point the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) will review.

How many households does TDAP expect to serve?

The number of households served will depend on the total cost of the subsidies provided to families, which vary according to rent levels and household incomes, and the overall TDAP budget. Our initial estimates, based on average subsidy amounts in similar programs, predict that we can reach up to 600 families; however, this is subject to change.

What services are available through the housing referral program?

The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is using its network of housing developers to identify vacancies in affordable apartments that Sandy victims may qualify for. An HPD housing placement coordinator will provide the registrant with apartment listings and contact information for apartment owners and managing agents. HPD does not get involved in the interview or application process, and cannot provide help with fees, deposits, or moving expenses. The majority of units in our network are in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan.

I am renter displaced from my Sandy-destroyed/damaged rental property. I have housing now and hold a lease, will I still be eligible for any rental assistance through the Build It Back program?

If you currently hold a lease, you will not be eligible for any rental assistance through the Build It Back Program at this time. Build It Back has requested federal approve to expand eligibility to registrants who meet this criteria and once approved, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) will reach out to you directly to determine eligibility.