Frequently Asked Questions

PACT / Rent

  • How will rent be determined? Will my rent increase?
    You'll pay 30% of your adjusted gross household income as your "tenant portion." NYCHA covers the rest (called the HAP/subsidy). If your rent would increase by more than $25/month or 10% of your current rent, you may qualify for a gradual 5-year phase-in.

  • What if my income or household changes?
    Report any changes within 30 days by submitting an interim recertification through NYCHA's Self-Service Portal (selfserve.nycha.info) or by calling 718-707-7771.

  • How do I complete my annual recertification?
    Online at selfserve.nycha.info. You'll need an Affidavit of Income for every household member and a Third-Party Verification form for all members 18+, plus supporting documents (pay stubs, bank statements, etc.).

  • Can I move out of the development?
    Yes. After one year under PACT, you can request a Choice Mobility Voucher to move to a private rental unit in or outside NYC. To move outside NYC entirely, you can "port out" your Section 8 voucher to another housing agency through the Self-Service Portal.

  • Are there job or savings opportunities through PACT?
    Yes. The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program builds a savings account that grows as your income increases. Graduates have used funds for home down payments, education, and businesses. PACT also requires that jobs generated by the conversion be offered to residents through the federal Section 3 program. Contact REES at 718-289-8100 or nychafss@nycha.nyc.gov.

Property Management / Work Tickets

  • Who do I pay rent to now?
    You pay your tenant portion directly to Cornell Pace Inc. (your new property manager), not NYCHA. You can pay via RentCafe.com.

  • What if I need to add people or pets to my lease?
    To add a household member, submit an interim recertification request through the Self-Service Portal or call the Customer Contact Center. To register a pet, visit the Cornell Pace Inc. management office.

  • What are Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections?
    NYCHA will periodically inspect your unit to ensure it meets federal safety and cleanliness standards. You must allow access and ensure someone 18+ is home during inspections. Tenant-caused damage, such as dead smoke detector batteries, blocked fire escapes, or double-cylinder locks, can result in subsidy termination.

Construction / Temporary Moves

  • Will I need to move during construction?
    Usually no. Renovations typically happen while you remain in your home. If a temporary move is needed because of severe repairs or health concerns, you have the right to return to your original apartment once work is complete.

  • Will I be required to move to a larger or smaller apartment?
    Possibly. NYCHA will determine if your household is overcrowded or over-housed. If so, you'll need to move to an appropriately sized unit when one becomes available. Failing to do so could result in loss of your Section 8 subsidy.

Resident Rights

  • What are my rights as a PACT resident?
    Your core rights are preserved. You keep your rent at 30% of income, your lease automatically renews annually, you can add family members, you retain grievance hearing rights, and you can organize through your resident association.

  • Can I move out of the development?
    After one year under PACT, residents may request a Choice Mobility Voucher and move to another private rental unit in or outside NYC.

Accessibility / Special Circumstances

  • What if I face domestic violence or a disability-related need?
    You can request an emergency transfer at any time. VAWA protections apply, meaning you cannot be evicted simply for being a victim of domestic violence. For disability accommodations, such as a larger unit or alternative communication formats, submit a request with medical documentation through the Self-Service Portal, a Walk-In Center, or by phone.ccessibilitmeownership, education, or small business development.