How to request a rent adjustment or change in responsibility in utilities

We conduct rent reviews upon request to help ensure your property is fairly priced within the local market. Our team will evaluate comparable units in your area and consider current market conditions to determine rent reasonableness.

Based on the results of the rent reasonableness determination and current market conditions, the rent may remain the same, increase, or—if the current rent exceeds comparable unassisted units—be reduced to comply with HUD requirements.

Follow these steps to request a rent evaluation.

When can you request a rent evaluation?

• You may request a rent evaluation after the initial occupancy period, subsequent requests for rent adjustments must be in accordance with the lease.
• You can only submit a rent evaluation request once every 12 months.
• Rent change requests require a 60-day notice. Any changes will take effect 60 days after the request is received and will be reflected in the next rent payment.
• The unit must be compliant with inspection standards. Any failed items from the most recent NSPIRE inspection must be repaired before a rent evaluation will be performed.

How to Submit a Rent Evaluation Request

All requests are submitted through DocuSign and automatically sent to the Austin Housing Authority once complete.

1. Open the DocuSign Form

   Review and agree to the Electronic Record and Signature Disclosure.

2. Complete the Form

   Please note rent changes must begin on the 1st of the month only.

3. Attach documents if applicable. Depending on your request, you may need to include the following:

   • Just submitting a rent evaluation? No additional documents needed. You may also upload comparable rent data to support your request (optional).
   • Submitting a rent evaluation and utility change? Upload a signed HUD-52517 (RFTA) form (tenant + owner must sign)
   • Utility change only (no rent increase)? Do not use DocuSign. Follow the Utility Change Request steps (jump link to below section).

4. Submit and save a copy

   Once all required fields are completed, click “Finish”. Your request will be automatically sent to the Austin Housing Authority. To save a copy for your records, click “Download”.

5. What happens next?

   If your unit requires inspection, Austin Housing Authority will complete a rent reasonableness survey within 10 business days of a “Passed” HQS inspection. If no inspection is due, we will complete a rent reasonableness survey within 14 business days of receipt of the request. You will be notified of the determination by email or in writing.

How to Submit a Utility Change Only

If you are only changing utility responsibility (no rent increase), follow these steps:

1. Complete the HUD-52517 (RFTA) form
2. Ensure it is signed by both tenant and owner
3. Email the form to your assigned case manager. If you need their contact information, please contact us at 512-477-4488.