Who is the HAP contract made between?

The Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract is a critical document in the Housing Choice Voucher program. It is a legally binding agreement made between the owner (or landlord) and the Public Housing Authority (PHA). This contract outlines the terms under which the PHA will provide rental assistance on behalf of the tenant, allowing them to occupy the rental unit.

The HAP contract specifies the amount of assistance the PHA will provide, the duration of the assistance, and various obligations of both parties, ensuring that both the owner and the PHA are clear about their responsibilities. This agreement is essential in maintaining the integrity of the program, as it provides a framework for how rental payments will be handled and ensures that the property meets certain standards.

The other choices involve relationships that do not align with the formal structure of the HAP contract. While the tenant and landlord have their own relationship and responsibilities, and the tenant may engage with a participating agency, the formal contract itself is strictly between the owner and the PHA.