FAQ

OHA recognizes that the subsidized housing industry can be complicated and even seem overwhelming. We are committed to helping our current residents, business partners and the general public better understand the work we do. The list below represents some of the most common questions we receive. You may also find additional FAQs on individual program pages throughout this website that offer more detailed information​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ about the services we offer.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

How do I get housing?

When there is a wait list opening you may apply for housing. We will call you if you make the list.

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Does OHA offer apartments for rent?

Periodically, OHA will open its Wait List and accept pre-applications. Then through a lotterized process, a certain number of pre-applications are selcted and placed on a Wait List. When housing becomes available, we pull applicants from this list and invite them in to complete the formal application process. At that time, documentation will be requested and verified, beginning the move-in process. OHA does not rent units to people who are not on our Wait List.

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Is there an agency that can assist me with housing if OHA doesn't have a Wait List open?

Eden I&R is the Alameda County agency that offers assistance with housing, employment and other much needed resources. They can be reached at www.211.org or by calling 2-1-1.

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How can residents access services that help families?

​Residents should contact their property manager for assistance related to their unit or continued occupancy. To access services such as job training, computer labs, education programs and more, please contact the Department of Family and Community Partnerships​. Visit the FCP page under the "OHA Departments" tab on this website.

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Does OHA have its own police department?

​Yes. The Oakland Housing Authority Police Department​ (OHAPD) is OHA's own police department with 37 sworn officers. The department maintains a community policing program, conducts investigations on behalf of OHA, and works in conjunction with the Oakland Police Department (OPD) on incidents at OHA properties in Oakland, for which the OPD has primary responsibility. Visit the OHAPD page of this website (under the "OHA Departments" tab) for more information.

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Does OHA do business with small local businesses?

​Yes, OHA seeks opportunities to work with local businesses and businesses that hire locally. With our committment to promoting hiring in Oakland, we maintain a robust Section 3 hiring program as well. Vist the "Business Opportunities" tab of this website for more information.

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Does OHA offer assistance to Section 8 Participants or Property Owners if there is a problem?

While OHA is not a party to the lease between the Particiant and the Property Owner, we will offer assistance and resources when applicable. You may contact the Leased Housing Department or visit the "Section 8" section of this website (under the "Residents" tab).

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