What the Long Beach Housing Authority does

The Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach (HACB) is a public agency that manages affordable rental housing in Long Beach, California. It administers public housing units, Section 8 vouchers, and other affordable housing programs for low-income residents. If you live in Long Beach and need affordable housing or already rent through HACB, you will work directly with this local agency—not a state or federal office.

HACB owns and operates public housing developments across the city and distributes Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers to may be able to access households. The agency also runs supportive housing programs and works with local nonprofits to expand affordable options. Understanding which programs HACB runs and how to reach the right department saves time when you have questions about your lease, rent, maintenance, or housing search.

Key Takeaways

  • The Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach is a local public agency that manages public housing and Section 8 vouchers for Long Beach residents only.
  • You can reach HACB by phone, mail, or in person at their main office; the contact method depends on what you need and how quickly you need a response.
  • If you are a current resident, your lease and lease addendum spell out which office handles maintenance requests, rent payment, and lease violations.
  • HACB maintains a waiting list for both public housing and Section 8 vouchers; the list opens and closes depending on funding and demand.
  • Maintenance emergencies (no heat, water, or electrical hazards) have a different reporting process than routine repairs and should be reported by phone when ready.

How to contact HACB by phone, mail, and in person

The Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach main office is located at 2300 North Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90814. The main phone number is (562) 437-0926. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though you should confirm current hours before visiting or calling, as they may change seasonally or due to staffing.

For routine questions about your lease, rent payment, or housing search, calling the main line during business hours is usually fastest. The receptionist can direct you to the right department—such as Leasing, Maintenance, or Tenant Services. If you need to mail documents, send them to the main office address and include your name, unit number (if you are a current resident), and a clear description of what you are sending and why.

In-person visits are useful if you need to submit documents, pick up forms, or speak to someone face-to-face about a complex issue. Bring your lease, identification, and any relevant paperwork. Walk-in hours vary, so calling ahead to confirm availability and expected wait times is wise.

Public housing and Section 8 voucher waiting lists

HACB maintains separate waiting lists for public housing and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. Both lists open and close based on funding and the number of available units. When a list is closed, you cannot add your name; when it reopens, there is typically a window of time to submit your request. The agency announces openings on its website and through local media.

To get on a waiting list, you must meet HACB's income limits, which are set by the federal government and vary by household size. You will need to provide proof of income, citizenship or may be able to access immigration status, and identification. The process process differs slightly between public housing and Section 8, so contact HACB directly to learn which documents you need and where to submit them.

Wait times vary significantly. Public housing waiting lists in Long Beach can be years long, while Section 8 lists may be closed for extended periods. HACB can tell you the current status of both lists and your position on them if you are already on the list.

Reporting maintenance and emergency repairs

If you are a current HACB resident, your lease includes instructions for reporting maintenance needs. Routine repairs—a leaky faucet, a broken cabinet, peeling paint—are typically reported through a work order system. Many HACB properties use an online portal or phone line for routine requests; check your lease or the notice posted in your building for the correct number and process.

Emergencies require when ready action. If you have no heat in winter, no water, exposed electrical wiring, a gas smell, or other serious safety hazards, call the emergency maintenance line listed in your lease or on HACB's website. Do not wait for business hours. If you cannot reach HACB and the situation is life-threatening, call 911.

Document the date and time you reported the problem and the name of the person who took your report. HACB has legal timelines for responding to different types of repairs—emergency repairs must be addressed much faster than cosmetic ones. If a repair is not made within the required timeframe, contact the Tenant Services office to file a complaint.

Understanding your lease and rent payment

Your HACB lease is a legal contract between you and the agency. It spells out your rent amount, the utilities included, your responsibilities as a tenant, and HACB's responsibilities as your landlord. Rent is typically due on the first of the month. Your lease will state where and how to pay—by mail, online, automatic bank transfer, or in person at the office.

If you cannot pay rent on time, contact HACB when ready. Do not ignore a late notice. Depending on your situation, you may be able to work out a payment plan or learn about emergency rental information programs run by the City of Long Beach. HACB staff can direct you to these resources.

Your lease also includes rules about occupancy, guests, pets, and maintenance of your unit. Violations can result in warnings, fines, or lease termination. If you receive a notice of violation, read it carefully and respond within the timeframe given. If you disagree with the notice, ask to speak with a supervisor or the Tenant Services office.

Finding information online and through other resources

HACB maintains a website with information about programs, waiting lists, and contact details. The site may also have downloadable forms, lease documents, and notices about policy changes. Search for "Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach" to find the official site.

If you are having trouble reaching HACB or need help understanding your rights as a tenant, contact the Long Beach Community Action Partnership or a local legal aid organization. These groups offer free or low-cost help with housing questions and can sometimes advocate on your behalf with HACB.

The City of Long Beach also runs its own housing programs separate from HACB, including emergency rental information and first-time homebuyer programs. The city's housing department can tell you which programs you may be able to use and how to learn more about them.

What to do if you disagree with an HACB decision

If HACB denies your housing request, terminates your lease, or makes a decision you believe is unfair, you have the right to request a hearing. Your lease or the notice you received will explain the appeal process and the important date for filing. Appeals must be submitted in writing within the timeframe stated—usually 10 to 30 days.

In your appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision and provide any documents that support your position. Send it to the address listed in the notice, and keep a copy for your records. HACB will schedule a hearing where you can present your case. You may bring a representative or attorney if you wish.

If you lose the appeal and believe HACB violated your rights, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD investigates fair housing violations and other complaints about public housing agencies. Contact HUD's Los Angeles office for information about filing a complaint.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Section 8 voucher from HACB?

Wait times depend on how many people are on the list and how much funding HACB has. In Long Beach, the Section 8 waiting list is often closed because demand is very high. When it is open, you may wait several years before receiving a voucher. Call HACB to learn the current status and your position on the list if you are already on it.

Can I request a transfer to a different HACB unit or neighborhood?

Yes, but the process and timeline depend on your lease and HACB's current policies. Contact the Leasing office to ask about transfer requests. You may have to wait for an opening in your preferred location, and HACB may charge a transfer fee. Your lease will explain the rules.

What happens if I lose my Section 8 voucher?

If you lose your voucher due to a lease violation or other reason, you can request a hearing to appeal the decision. If the decision stands, you can reapply for the waiting list when it reopens, but you will start at the end of the list. Contact HACB's Tenant Services office when ready if you receive a notice of termination.

Does HACB help with utility bills or other housing costs?

HACB's rent is based on your income and typically includes some utilities, depending on the property. The agency does not directly pay utility bills, but the City of Long Beach runs separate programs that may help with utility costs. Ask HACB staff or call 211 to learn what programs are available in your area.

How do I know if I meet HACB's income limits?

HACB's income limits are set by the federal government and change yearly. They vary by household size and are based on the area median income for Long Beach. Call HACB and provide your household size and monthly income, and staff can tell you whether you likely meet the limit. You will need to provide proof of income when you explore.