SC Housing

Violence Against Women Act 2013

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking. VAWA protections are not only available to women, but are available equally to all individuals regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation^[1]. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) oversees the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) compliance with VAWA

If you are receiving assistance under the HCVP, you may not be denied assistance, terminated from participation or be evicted from your rental housing because you are, or have been, a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking.

If you are an HCVP applicant and otherwise qualify for assistance, you cannot be denied admission or denied assistance because you are, or have been, a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking.

VAWA created the following:

Notice of Occupancy Rights explains the protections provided and how to request them.
Owner Notice of Occupancy Rights and Obligations for owner/landlords that have units under a Housing Assistance Payments contract with SC Housing.
Emergency Transfer Plan VAWA requires the implementation of an emergency transfer plan which identifies participants who are eligible for an emergency transfer, the documentation needed to request an emergency transfer, confidentiality protections, how an emergency transfer may occur, and guidance to participants on safety and security.

Below are the links to these documents and other information concerning domestic violence.

Please take time to read and understand the provisions of VAWA to understand the rights and responsibilities of all parties with respect to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking.

If you have any questions concerning VAWA and how it applies to you, please contact your assigned housing program team, or call 803.896.8888, option 2 (toll-free 1.800.236.4009).

[1] Housing providers cannot discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, or age. HUD-assisted and HUD-insured housing must be made available to all otherwise eligible individuals regardless of actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status.

Violence Against Women Act 2013

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