COVID19 FAQ
COVID19
HABC is currently closed to the public. HABC has set up a remote link www.habcnj.org/recert for any Tenant coming up for their Annual Re-examination. Tenant can complete and submit the Annual re-examination and upload required documents. Current active Section 8 Tenants are also encouraged to register their online tenant user accounts https://www.habcnj.org/registration
If Tenant absolutely has no access to internet or email, then they may request for a physical Annual Packet be mailed to their physical address by their assigned Housing Specialist.
Concerning units already in a FAILED HQS Inspection; HUD has NOT exempted Section 8 units from HQS compliance nor has the authority to do so. Housing Quality Standards compliance is a statutory requirement. HABC’s contracted HQS Inspection Services (CGI) has restarted annual inspections. HABC may grant re-schedules or 30-day extensions if Landlord or Tenant need additional time to complete repairs; either due to ill household members or extenuating circumstances. Both Landlord & Tenant are encouraged to exercise good judgment and follow CDC Guidelines: Cleaning & Disinfecting.
Any inspection re-schedule or 30-day extension request should be immediately e-mailed to the Housing Specialist and inspections@habcnj.org.
Given the new normal of COVID-19 concerns, CGI and HABC want to make all program participants aware of the proactive measures CGI’s Inspectors utilize for responsible and safe inspections. Inspectors will use PPE (personal protective equipment), and exercise CDC guidelines of social distancing. Additionally, we request that you wear a mask when an inspector comes to your unit and if possible, limit the number of household members present at the time of an inspection to 1 or 2 (Tenant/Owner or Owner representative). At a minimum, one adult 18 years or older needs to be present for inspection. If you have any questions or if any household member falls ill, please notify CGI immediately.
Household should immediately file for either Unemployment Benefits or Temporary Disability & Family Leave Insurance Benefits, and take a screenshot of the unemployment receipt application. E-mail your assigned Housing Specialist with the last day of employment, U/E screenshot application receipt, and any former employer notification on hand if available. If you do not know who your Housing Specialist, email info@habcnj.org with the required documents.
It is important, that when you do receive your U/E weekly benefit award statement to immediately e-mail your Housing Specialist within 10 days. Any delay or failure to do so will result in future repayment agreements or jeopardize future participation.
- Homeless hotline (NJ United Way) 211 or www.nj211.org
- Bergen County Board of Social Services 201-368-4200 http://bcbss.com/
- Homeless Prevention Hotline
- 201-336-6490
- Bergen County Housing Health and Human Services Center (Emergency Shelter)
- 201-336-6475
- Center For Hope and Safety hotline (domestic violence) 201-944-9600 https://www.hopeandsafetynj.org/