What the Fall River Housing Authority does

The Fall River Housing Authority (FRHA) is a public agency that owns and manages rental housing for low-income residents in Fall River, Massachusetts. It administers public housing units, Section 8 vouchers, and other affordable housing programs in the city. If you live in one of their properties or hold one of their vouchers, the FRHA is your landlord or the agency that subsidizes your rent.

The Authority also manages waiting lists for public housing and voucher programs. Because demand for affordable housing in Fall River exceeds available units, these lists can be long, and the FRHA periodically opens and closes them based on current capacity.

Key Takeaways

  • The Fall River Housing Authority manages public housing units and Section 8 vouchers for low-income residents in the city.
  • You can reach FRHA by phone, mail, or in person at their main office; contact information and office hours are available on their website.
  • Waiting lists for housing and vouchers open and close based on demand; you must explore during an open period to be added.
  • If you are a current resident or voucher holder, you report maintenance issues and rent-related questions directly to FRHA.
  • FRHA also oversees lease enforcement, rent calculations, and housing quality standards for all properties they manage.

How to contact Fall River Housing Authority

The FRHA main office is located in Fall River and can be reached by phone during business hours. You can also visit in person to speak with staff about housing programs, submit documents, or ask questions about your lease or voucher. Mailing address and phone number are listed on the Authority's official website.

When you call or visit, have your case number or lease information ready if you are already a resident or voucher holder. If you are inquiring about waiting lists or new programs, be prepared to provide basic household information.

Public housing and Section 8 voucher programs

The FRHA operates two main programs. Public housing consists of units the Authority owns directly; your rent is based on your income, typically 30 percent of your adjusted gross income. Section 8 vouchers allow you to rent from a private landlord while the Authority subsidizes a portion of your rent; you pay the difference.

Both programs have waiting lists. The FRHA opens these lists periodically when they have capacity to add new households. You cannot explore when a list is closed. The Authority's website shows the current status of each list and explains how the process works during open periods.

What to do if you are a current resident or voucher holder

Report maintenance problems to FRHA when ready, especially issues affecting safety or habitability such as heat loss, water leaks, or electrical hazards. The Authority has a timeline for responding to repairs depending on severity. Emergency repairs (no heat in winter, no water, gas leak) should be reported by phone and documented in writing.

Rent-related questions, lease violations, or disputes about your rent calculation should also go to FRHA. If you cannot pay rent on time, contact the Authority before the due date to discuss your situation. Eviction proceedings begin when rent is unpaid, and early communication may open options.

Understanding rent calculations and lease terms

In public housing, FRHA calculates your rent based on your household income, family size, and deductions allowed under federal rules. You must report income changes within 30 days; failure to do so can result in back rent owed. The Authority conducts annual income recertifications and may adjust your rent accordingly.

Your lease spells out your obligations as a tenant and FRHA's obligations as landlord. Lease violations—such as unauthorized occupants, damage beyond normal wear, or criminal activity—can result in lease termination and eviction. FRHA must follow state law and provide notice and opportunity to cure before eviction.

Housing quality standards and inspections

FRHA properties must meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These cover structure, systems, safety, sanitation, and lead-based paint. The Authority inspects units regularly and when tenants report problems.

If your unit fails inspection, FRHA must correct deficiencies within a set timeframe. You have the right to a safe, habitable home. If repairs are not made and the unit remains uninhabitable, you may have grounds to withhold rent or break your lease, though you should document the problem and notify FRHA in writing first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get housing through Fall River Housing Authority?

Wait times depend on the program and current demand. Public housing and Section 8 voucher waiting lists in Fall River can be years long. Once you are on the list, FRHA contacts you when a unit or voucher becomes available. You can call FRHA to ask your position on the list, though they may not provide an exact number.

What if I have a maintenance emergency and cannot reach FRHA?

Call the main office number and listen for an emergency option, or check the FRHA website for an after-hours emergency contact. Document the problem with photos and timestamps. If FRHA does not respond within the required timeframe, you may have the right to repair-and-deduct under Massachusetts law, but consult a tenant rights organization first.

Can I transfer to a different FRHA unit or neighborhood?

Transfer policies vary. Contact FRHA directly to ask whether transfers are available and what the waiting period is. Some authorities allow transfers after a certain time in your current unit; others have restrictions based on lease violations or outstanding balances.

What happens if I move out of my FRHA unit?

You must give notice according to your lease, typically 30 days. FRHA will conduct a move-out inspection to document the unit's condition. You are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Any security deposit or prepaid rent will be returned or applied to damages within the timeframe required by Massachusetts law.

How do I report a lease violation by another tenant?

Contact FRHA directly with details of the violation. The Authority investigates complaints and takes action if violations are confirmed. You can report anonymously, though FRHA may need to follow up with you for details. Do not confront the other tenant directly.