When does the HAP contract typically begin?

The Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract typically begins on the first day of the lease. This timing is significant because the HAP contract formalizes the agreement between the Public Housing Authority (PHA) and the landlord regarding the housing assistance payments to be made for the tenant. The commencement of the HAP contract ties directly to the lease start date, as it ensures that the housing benefits are aligned with the period that the tenant is officially occupying the rental unit.

Option A is generally incorrect since the HAP contract is not established at the signing of the lease, but rather when the lease officially starts. Option C, which mentions inspections, is also not the correct trigger for the HAP contract's commencement. While inspections are a critical step in ensuring the unit meets program standards, they do not directly determine when the HAP contract becomes effective. Option D refers to PHA approval, which is vital in the process but does not align with when payments begin; the HAP contract starts on the actual lease date, ensuring that assistance aligns with the rental period.