Violence Against Women Act
INRHA is committed to protecting victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Your housing rights are protected under federal law.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) — available 24/7.
What is VAWA?
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides important protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who are applicants for or participants in HUD-assisted housing programs, including the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program.
VAWA protections apply regardless of sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Male victims and LGBTQ+ individuals are equally protected under this law.
These protections are in addition to any other rights you may have under state or local law. INRHA is required to inform all applicants and participants of their VAWA rights.
VAWA covers victims of:
- Domestic violence — felony or misdemeanor crimes committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner
- Dating violence — violence committed by a person in a social, romantic, or intimate relationship with the victim
- Sexual assault — any nonconsensual sexual act prohibited by federal, tribal, or state law
- Stalking — engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety
VAWA Protections
Protection from Eviction
You cannot be evicted or have your housing assistance terminated solely because you are a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Emergency Transfer
If you are a victim and fear for your safety in your current unit, you may request an emergency transfer to another unit or jurisdiction.
Confidentiality
INRHA will keep information about your VAWA status confidential and will not disclose it to third parties without your written consent, except as required by law.
Bifurcation of Lease
INRHA may bifurcate (split) a lease to evict or terminate assistance for the abuser while allowing the victim to remain in the unit.
Requesting VAWA Protections
To request VAWA protections, you may be asked to provide documentation of the abuse. INRHA will provide you with a certification form (HUD Form 5382) to complete.
Acceptable documentation includes a completed HUD certification form, or a federal, state, tribal, territorial, or local police report, court order or record, or administrative record, or documentation signed by a victim advocate, attorney, or a mental health or medical professional.
You have 14 business days to provide documentation after INRHA requests it. INRHA may extend this deadline at its discretion.
Contact INRHA for Help
If you need to request VAWA protections or have questions about your rights, please contact our office. All communications are kept confidential.
Office hours: Mon–Thu 8:30 AM–5:00 PM | Fri 8:30 AM-12 PM
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