Oakland Housing Authority Police Department
(510) 535-3100
Don’t risk losing your opportunity to receive subsidized housing by providing false, incomplete or inaccurate information on your application and recertification forms.
Suspected Fraud or Abuse
The Oakland Housing Authority places a high priority on preventing fraud. OHA investigates suspected program abuse or misconduct for both Section 8 and Conventional Housing.
You Can Help By Reporting Fraud
Help keep the money where it belongs—assisting families in need who meet program qualifications. If fraud is suspected, community members are encouraged to contact the Oakland Housing Authority Police Department at 510-535-3100 or
OHAPD@oakha.org. An anonymous tip line is also available at 510-535-3155.
You are encouraged to report incidents of fraud promptly, providing as much information as available:
- Describe what happened in detail.
- Around what dates did you notice the suspect suspicious activity?
- Why does it appear to you to be a fraud?
- Are there documents that would aid in the investigation? support your claim (such as a side contract between the owner and tenant, a phone bill proving residence at another location, etc.)?
- Provide the names and contact information of people willing to talk to an investigator.
Beware of Fraud
Be aware of the following fraud schemes:
- Do not pay any money to file an application for housing assistance
- Do not pay money to move up on the waiting list
- Do not pay for anything not covered by your lease
- Get a receipt for any money paid
- Get a written explanation if you are required to pay any money other than rent (such as maintenance charges)
- Report all income at annual certifications
- Do not sublease your unit
- Report changes in your family composition as required by OHA
Penalties for Committing Fraud
There may be penalties for committing fraud including:
- Possible eviction from your apartment or house or loss of your Section 8 voucher
- Requirement to repay all overpaid rental assistance you received
- Up to five (5) years imprisonment and/or
- Any future participation in a housing assistance program shall be prohibited
Owner Participation
The owners and housing providers that participate in the Section 8 Program are also subject to review and verification they are following the terms of the Housing Assistance Payment Contract. Owners must show proof of current title and report any property transfers and/or properties that have been foreclosed on immediately to OHA. Any Housing Assistance Payments received after the property has changed ownership must be returned immediately to OHA to avoid possible criminal prosecution and collection remedies.