How the Asheville Housing Authority Works and What It Administers

What the Asheville Housing Authority does

The Asheville Housing Authority (AHA) is a local government agency that runs public housing and rental voucher programs in Buncombe County, North Carolina. It does not provide emergency information or one-time grants. Instead, it manages long-term housing for low-income residents through two main programs: public housing units that AHA owns directly, and Section 8 vouchers that let you rent from a private landlord while AHA pays part of your rent.

AHA is separate from the city of Asheville government, though it operates under state law and receives federal funding. If you are looking for emergency rent help, utility information, or rapid rehousing after homelessness, you will need to contact Buncombe County Department of Health and Human Services or a local nonprofit like Community Action Asheville instead.

Key Takeaways

AHA runs public housing apartments and Section 8 rental vouchers, both for people with low incomes; it does not provide emergency cash or one-time payments.
Public housing is owned by AHA; Section 8 lets you choose a private rental unit as long as the landlord agrees and the unit passes inspection.
Both programs require you to report your income and household composition annually, and your rent contribution is based on what you earn.
AHA maintains a waiting list for both programs; the wait time varies and depends on how many units become available and how many people are ahead of you.
You can contact AHA directly at their office in Asheville to ask about current wait times and what documents you will need to bring.

Public housing versus Section 8 vouchers

AHA owns and manages public housing apartments throughout Buncombe County. When you live in public housing, AHA is your landlord. You pay rent based on your income (usually 30 percent of your gross monthly income), and AHA covers the rest of the operating costs. The units are inspected regularly, and maintenance is handled by AHA staff.

Section 8 vouchers work differently. AHA gives you a voucher that covers a portion of rent at a private apartment or house you find yourself. You choose the unit, negotiate with the landlord, and AHA pays the landlord directly each month. You pay the difference between the voucher amount and the actual rent. The landlord must agree to accept the voucher, and the unit must pass an AHA inspection before you can move in.

Public housing has a shorter waiting period in most cases, but the number and location of available units is limited. Section 8 gives you more choice in where you live, but landlords are not required to accept vouchers, and the waiting list is often longer. Both programs require annual recertification of your income and household size.

Income limits and rent calculations

AHA serves households with incomes at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) for Buncombe County. The exact income limit depends on your household size. For example, the limit for a single person is lower than the limit for a family of four. These limits change each year based on HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) calculations.

Your rent in either program is calculated as 30 percent of your gross monthly income, or the minimum rent set by AHA, whichever is higher. If your income changes during the year, you can report it, and your rent will be adjusted at your next annual recertification. If you receive a one-time payment (such as a tax refund or inheritance), it may count as income depending on when you receive it and AHA's policies.

You will need to provide recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer to verify your income. If you are unemployed, self-employed, or receiving benefits, bring documentation of those income sources as well.

How to contact AHA and what to bring

The Asheville Housing Authority office is located in Asheville. You can visit in person, call, or check their website for current hours and phone numbers. When you first contact them, ask about the current wait time for both public housing and Section 8, since these change as units become available.

To start the process, bring a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), and proof of residency in Buncombe County (a utility bill or lease). If you have a disability or are over 62, mention this when you contact AHA, as some programs have shorter wait times or reserved units for these groups. Bring documentation of your disability or age if you have it.

AHA staff can tell you whether you meet the income limit and explain the waiting list process. They will also describe what happens after you are approved: how long it typically takes to be called for a unit, what inspections look like, and what your responsibilities are as a tenant.

Waiting lists and how long they take

Both public housing and Section 8 have waiting lists. The length of the wait depends on how many people are on the list and how many units become available. In some cases, the public housing wait may be shorter than Section 8, but this varies. AHA can tell you the current wait time when you call or visit.

While you are on the waiting list, your name stays active as long as you respond to AHA's requests for updated information (usually once a year). If you move or your phone number changes, notify AHA when ready so they can reach you when a unit or voucher becomes available.

Some people are prioritized on the waiting list. Homeless individuals, people fleeing domestic violence, and those with disabilities may move up the list depending on AHA's policies. Ask AHA staff whether any of these categories explore to you.

Annual recertification and ongoing requirements

Once you are in public housing or have a Section 8 voucher, you must recertify your income and household composition every year. This means providing updated pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit letters to show your current income. You will also confirm who lives in your household and report any changes (births, deaths, people moving in or out).

If you fail to recertify on time, AHA can terminate your lease or voucher. Mark the recertification date on your calendar and respond promptly when AHA sends you a notice. If your circumstances change during the year (job loss, new job, household member leaves), report it to AHA so your rent can be adjusted.

You are also required to maintain the unit in good condition and follow the lease terms. For Section 8, your landlord must also maintain the unit to AHA standards, and AHA conducts inspections periodically to make sure the property is safe and meets housing codes.

What to do if you are denied or removed from the program

If AHA denies your request to join the program or terminates your lease or voucher, you have the right to request a hearing. AHA must provide written notice of the reason for the denial or termination. The notice will explain how to request a hearing and the important date to do so (usually 10 days).

At a hearing, you can present your side of the story and bring documents or witnesses to support your case. A hearing officer who is not involved in the original decision will listen to both sides and make a ruling. If you disagree with the hearing decision, you may have the right to appeal further, though this depends on the reason for the denial or termination.

If you are struggling to meet program requirements or have questions about a notice you received, contact AHA before the important date. Staff can sometimes clarify misunderstandings or work with you to resolve issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the waiting list right now?

Wait times change as units become available and new people join the list. Call AHA directly or visit their office to ask about the current wait for public housing and Section 8 separately. They can also tell you whether you would be prioritized based on your circumstances.

Can I be on both the public housing and Section 8 waiting lists at the same time?

Yes. You can request to be on both lists. If a unit or voucher becomes available, AHA will contact you. You can accept one and ask to stay on the other list, or decline and remain on both. Clarify this with AHA when you explore so there is no confusion later.

What if I own a car or have savings — does that disqualify me?

AHA looks primarily at your income, not your assets. Owning a car or having savings in the bank typically does not disqualify you. However, if you have very high income or assets, you may exceed the income limit. Ask AHA staff about your specific situation.

Can my landlord refuse my Section 8 voucher?

Yes. Landlords are not required to accept Section 8 vouchers. However, in some states and cities, discrimination based on source of income is illegal. North Carolina does not have a statewide source-of-income protection law, but some local jurisdictions may. Ask AHA whether your area has this protection, and report any refusals to them.

What happens if I get a job and my income goes above the limit?

If your income rises above the limit, you may be required to leave the program. However, some programs have a "rent reasonableness" period where you can stay for a limited time while your rent increases. Report income changes to AHA right away so you understand your options and timeline.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.