What does it mean when a unit is in abatement?

When a unit is in abatement, it means that the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) to the owner is withheld due to the unit not meeting Housing Quality Standards (HQS) after two failed inspections. Abatement starts on the 1st of the month following the second failed inspection and lasts for one month.

During the abatement period, the tenant is still required to pay their portion of the rent, but the Housing Authority will not pay its portion until the unit passes the HQS inspection. The withheld payments will not be made retroactively. Once the unit passes inspection, payments may resume on a pro-rated basis starting from the date of the passed inspection.

This process ensures that owners maintain their units in compliance with HQS standards. For more details, please refer to the relevant HUD regulations, particularly 24 CFR § 982.404.