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The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Housing Protections
Know Your Rights. Know Your Options. Stay Safe.
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides important housing protections for survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who live in HUD-assisted housing, including Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs.
VAWA protections generally mean that a survivor cannot be denied housing, evicted, or lose housing assistance solely because they are a survivor of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
If You Are in Immediate Danger Call 9-1-1
For confidential support, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
Need Housing or Shelter?
Dial 2-1-1 and press 6 for homeless services, or visit 211.org to find local resources and services.
Who is Covered Under
VAWA Protection?
VAWA protections may apply if you are currently or have previously experienced domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
You do not have to be married to, related to, or living with the person who committed the violence to be protected by VAWA
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VAWA protections may apply to eligible applicants and residents of covered federally assisted housing programs, including Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs.
What Does VAWA Protect?
VAWA provides housing protections for people who have experienced:
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Domestic violence
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Dating violence
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Sexual assault
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Stalking
Your Housing Rights Under VAWA
You Can Apply for Housing
You generally cannot be denied admission to HUD-assisted housing because you are a survivor of VAWA violence or abuse.
You Can Remain in Your Home
You generally cannot be evicted or lose housing assistance because of VAWA violence or abuse committed against you.
You May Request an Emergency Transfer
You may be able to request an emergency transfer when you need to move for safety reasons related to VAWA violence or abuse.
You May Be Able to Move With Continued Assistance
If you receive a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, you may have the right to move while continuing to receive housing assistance.
You Have Confidentiality Rights
Information about your status as a survivor must be kept confidential as required by VAWA and applicable HUD requirements.
You May Request Lease Bifurcation
In certain circumstances, you may request that a perpetrator be removed from the lease or household while allowing the victim to remain housed.
You Can Self-Certify
HUD provides a self-certification process using Form HUD-5382. Additional documentation may be requested only in circumstances permitted by HUD requirements.
You Are Protected From Retaliation
Housing providers cannot intimidate, threaten, coerce, or retaliate against someone for seeking or exercising VAWA protections.
VAWA Forms & Resources
These HUD forms are available to help applicants and residents understand and exercise their VAWA rights. Visit HUD’s VAWA page to learn more and access all current VAWA forms.
This notice explains the housing protections available to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
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Dedham Housing Authority’s VAWA Policy establishes protections, procedures, and responsibilities for survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault.
This form may be used to self-certify that you are a survivor seeking VAWA protections.
This form may be used to request an emergency transfer when you meet the applicable VAWA requirements and need to relocate for safety.
If You Believe Your VAWA Rights Were Violated
If you believe your VAWA rights have been violated, you may file a housing discrimination complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO). To file a complaint, use the link below or call HUD’s Housing Discrimination Hotline at 1-800-669-9777. The hotline is operated by HUD’s FHEO office.
Learn more about HUD's complaint process and available filing options. Retaliation against someone for filing a complaint, reporting discrimination, or participating in a HUD investigation or proceeding is prohibited.
Individuals may seek assistance from outside resources without first contacting the Dedham Housing Authority (DHA). They may also contact DHA directly to learn about their housing rights under VAWA, including confidentiality, emergency transfers, and other applicable protections. Contacting DHA for information about these rights does not require hiring an attorney or constitute legal representation.