How the Baltimore Public Housing Authority Works and What It Manages

What the Baltimore Public Housing Authority does

The Baltimore Public Housing Authority (BPHA) owns and operates public housing in Baltimore City. It is a separate agency from the city government, though it receives federal funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). BPHA manages roughly 10,000 public housing units across the city, plus administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, which helps tenants rent from private landlords.

BPHA is not the same as the city's housing department or the mayor's office. It has its own board, its own staff, and its own rules. If you live in a BPHA building or hold a BPHA voucher, BPHA is the landlord or the voucher administrator you deal with directly.

Key Takeaways

BPHA manages public housing buildings and the Section 8 voucher program separately, and the rules and wait lists for each are different.
BPHA's main office is at 417 East Fayette Street in downtown Baltimore, and you can reach the general line at 410-396-5500.
If you live in a BPHA building, maintenance requests and rent disputes go to BPHA, not to the city.
Section 8 voucher holders rent from private landlords, and BPHA pays part of the rent directly to the landlord each month.
Both public housing and Section 8 have long wait lists; BPHA does not currently accept new applications for either program.

BPHA's public housing buildings and how they work

BPHA owns and operates apartment buildings throughout Baltimore. These are the buildings where BPHA is the landlord. If you live in one, you pay rent to BPHA, and BPHA is responsible for maintenance, repairs, and enforcing the lease.

Rent in BPHA public housing is based on your household income. BPHA calculates your rent as 30 percent of your adjusted gross income, or a minimum rent set by BPHA policy, whichever is higher. The minimum rent varies but is typically between $50 and $100 per month. You pay the same rent whether you live in a newer building or an older one.

If you need a maintenance repair in a BPHA building, you contact BPHA's maintenance department. You can call 410-396-5500 and ask to report a repair request, or you can visit the main office in person. BPHA has a timeline for emergency repairs (like no heat or water) versus routine repairs (like a broken cabinet). Emergency repairs should be addressed within 24 hours; routine repairs typically take longer.

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program

BPHA also administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. This is different from public housing. With a Section 8 voucher, you find your own apartment in the private rental market, and BPHA pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord. You pay the difference out of your own pocket.

The amount BPHA pays is based on the "fair market rent" for your area and bedroom size, set by HUD each year. You are responsible for finding a landlord willing to accept Section 8, and the landlord must agree to rent to you. BPHA does not find the apartment for you.

If you have a Section 8 voucher and need help, you contact BPHA's Section 8 program office. They handle lease approvals, rent calculations, and payment to landlords. If there is a dispute with your landlord, BPHA can sometimes mediate, but the landlord is not a BPHA employee — they are a private property owner.

How to contact BPHA and what services are available

BPHA's main office is located at 417 East Fayette Street, Baltimore, MD 21202. The general phone number is 410-396-5500. You can also visit in person during business hours to speak with staff about public housing, Section 8, or maintenance issues.

BPHA has separate departments for different services. If you call the main line, you will be directed to the right department based on your question. For example, if you need to report a maintenance issue, you will be transferred to maintenance. If you have a Section 8 question, you will be transferred to the Section 8 office.

BPHA also has a website where you can find information about programs, policies, and how to reach specific departments. The website address is available through a web search for "Baltimore Public Housing Authority."

Wait lists and how to get on them

Both BPHA public housing and Section 8 vouchers have wait lists. The wait lists are long — in some cases, years long. As of the most recent public information, BPHA is not currently accepting new applications for either public housing or Section 8 vouchers. This means the wait lists are closed.

When BPHA reopens the wait lists, they announce it publicly. You can check the BPHA website or call 410-396-5500 to ask whether applications are being taken. If the lists reopen, you will need to submit an process in person or by mail, along with proof of income, identification, and other documents BPHA requires.

If you are currently on a BPHA wait list from a previous process, you do not need to reapply. BPHA keeps your name on file. However, you should contact BPHA periodically to confirm your information is current and that you are still interested in housing.

Tenant rights and lease rules in BPHA housing

If you live in a BPHA building, you have a lease with BPHA. The lease spells out your rights and responsibilities. BPHA must follow Maryland's landlord-tenant law, which means BPHA cannot evict you without cause and must give you proper notice.

Common reasons for eviction in BPHA housing include non-payment of rent, lease violations (such as unauthorized occupants or criminal activity), or damage to the unit beyond normal wear and tear. BPHA must file an eviction case in District Court, and you have the right to appear and defend yourself.

If BPHA fails to make repairs, you have the right to request repairs in writing and, in some cases, to withhold rent or break the lease if the repairs are not made within a reasonable time. Maryland law requires landlords to maintain habitable conditions. If you believe BPHA is not maintaining your unit, you can contact a legal aid organization or the Baltimore Housing Authority's tenant advocate office for guidance.

What to do if you have a problem with BPHA

If you have a complaint about BPHA — whether it is about maintenance, rent calculation, a lease dispute, or treatment by staff — you can file a complaint with BPHA directly. Ask to speak with a supervisor or the complaint department when you call 410-396-5500.

You can also file a complaint with HUD, which oversees BPHA. HUD has a complaint process for public housing residents and Section 8 voucher holders. You can reach HUD's Baltimore office or file a complaint online through HUD's website.

If you believe you are being discriminated against based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status, you can file a fair housing complaint with HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. This is separate from a general complaint and has its own timeline and process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BPHA the same as the city housing department?

No. BPHA is an independent agency that receives federal funding from HUD. The city has its own housing department that handles different programs and services. If you have a question about a city housing program, contact the city; if it is about BPHA housing or Section 8, contact BPHA directly.

How long does it usually take to get public housing or a Section 8 voucher?

Wait times vary and depend on when the lists reopen and how many units become available. In the past, wait times have ranged from several months to several years. Currently, BPHA is not accepting new applications, so you cannot join the wait list at this time.

Can I break my BPHA lease if I move out of state?

You must follow the terms of your lease. If you want to break the lease early, you may owe penalties or back rent. Contact BPHA to discuss your situation and ask about early lease termination options. Some circumstances, like a job transfer, may be considered, but BPHA does not have to release you from the lease.

What happens if I do not pay my BPHA rent?

BPHA can file an eviction case against you in District Court. You will receive a notice to quit, typically giving you a few days to pay or move. If you do not pay or move, BPHA will file in court. You have the right to appear and explain your situation. If you are having trouble paying, contact BPHA when ready to discuss options.

Can I use my Section 8 voucher anywhere in Baltimore?

You can use your Section 8 voucher to rent from any private landlord in Baltimore City who is willing to accept Section 8 and whose rent is at or below the fair market rent limit set by HUD. You cannot use it in buildings that BPHA owns, and you cannot use it outside Baltimore City unless you have permission from BPHA to move.

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.