Relocation Plan
MHC has updated its relocation planning resources and guidance materials. These materials are designed to assist applicants in preparing comprehensive relocation plans that address construction phasing, resident communication, relocation assistance, and documentation requirements.
Resident Protection Requirements for LIHTC Developments
Residents living in developments participating in federally assisted housing programs are afforded certain protections during construction and rehabilitation. Owners and developers must ensure the following protections are maintained.
Right to Fair Treatment
Residents must be treated fairly and consistently during relocation activities. No resident should be displaced or relocated without appropriate notice and relocation assistance.
Right to Relocation Assistance
Eligible residents must receive relocation assistance, including:
- Moving expense reimbursement
- Advisory services
- Assistance in locating replacement housing
- Temporary housing arrangements if required
Right to Decent, Safe, and Sanitary Housing
Replacement housing must meet minimum standards for:
- safety
- sanitation
- habitability
Housing must also be affordable to the household.
Right to Return (Temporary Relocation)
If relocation is temporary, residents must be allowed to return to their unit or a comparable unit once rehabilitation is completed.
Good Cause Evictions Only
Residents may not be evicted solely because of the rehabilitation project.
Evictions must comply with:
- Lease terms
- Mississippi landlord-tenant law
- Program requirements
Special Population Protections
Additional assistance should be considered for residents with special needs, including:
- elderly households
- disabled residents
- large families
- residents requiring accessibility accommodations
Recordkeeping & Compliance Monitoring
Owners must maintain documentation including:
- relocation notices
- relocation payments
- tenant communications
- relocation tracking
These records must be available to Mississippi Home Corporation upon request.
Failure to Comply
Failure to comply with relocation requirements may result in:
- delays in project approval
- corrective action requirements
- funding consequences