handbook of information for residents of apartments … · hannibal housing authority page 6...

HANDBOOK OF INFORMATION

FOR

RESIDENTS

OF APARTMENTS MANAGED BY THE

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF

HANNIBAL, MISSOURI

Community Center

Management Offices

253 Munger Lane

&

3614 Navajo

Hannibal Housing Authority Page 2

Resident Handbook

CONTENTS

WELCOME ................................................................................................................................3

LEASE AGREEMENT .............................................................................................................4

EMERGENCY NUMBERS .......................................................................................................4

SECURITY DEPOSIT ...............................................................................................................5

RENT COLLECTION POLICY.................................................................................................5

UTILITIES FURNISHED ..........................................................................................................6

TENANT FURNISHED UTILITIES .........................................................................................6

PEST CONTROL .......................................................................................................................6

EXTRA CHARGES....................................................................................................................6

INSPECTIONS ...........................................................................................................................7

ANNUAL RE-EXAMINATION ................................................................................................7

RIGHT OF ENTRY ....................................................................................................................7

COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY ..........................................................................................7

OVERHEAD POWER LINES ...................................................................................................8

MOTORCYCLES .......................................................................................................................8

PARKING VEHICLES ..............................................................................................................8

KEYS AND LOCKOUTS ..........................................................................................................8

PHOTO ID PROGRAM .............................................................................................................9

POLICE SUBSTATION .............................................................................................................9

FENCES ......................................................................................................................................9

GROUNDS AND YARDS .........................................................................................................9

SINKS AND LAVATORIES .....................................................................................................9

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR FIBERGLASS BATHTUBS ..............................10

WALLS AND FLOORS ............................................................................................................10

SAFETY MEASURES ..............................................................................................................10

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND CARE OF EQUIPMENT ..................................................11

REFRIGERATOR .....................................................................................................................11

HOTWATER HEATER ............................................................................................................11

ELECTRIC HEAT .....................................................................................................................11

SATELLITE DISHES ...............................................................................................................12

ANTENNAS-WINDOWFANS-AIRCONDITIONERS ...........................................................12

PERSONAL PROPERTY .........................................................................................................12

REDECORATING ....................................................................................................................12

PEACE DISTURBANCE ..........................................................................................................13

MOVING OUT ..........................................................................................................................13

RUMORS ...................................................................................................................................13

MISCELLANEOUS ..................................................................................................................13

SUMMARY ...............................................................................................................................14

CHARGE LIST ..........................................................................................................................14

TRANSFER POLICY ................................................................................................................16

HOUSEKEEPING & CLEANING GUIDE ..............................................................................17 RESIDENT PROGRAMS/RESOURCES .................................................................................19

PET POLICY .............................................................................................................................20


Resident Handbook

WELCOME

Welcome to your new home and neighborhood. The Hannibal Housing Authority hopes your stay

will be a pleasant and safe one. The Mission of The Hannibal Housing Authority is as follows:

“The mission of the Hannibal Housing Authority is to promote adequate and affordable

housing, economic opportunity and a suitable living environment without discrimination for

low-income, very low-income families, persons with disabilities or the elderly”

The purpose of this booklet is to acquaint you with both your and the housing authorities

responsibilities and policies regarding residence. All policies and procedures are intended for the

well being of all residents for the peaceful enjoyment of your home.

The offices are open for your convenience and well being and we sincerely encourage you to

contact us at any time.

Again, welcome.

Sincerely,

Jack L. McCord

Executive Director


Resident Handbook

LEASE AGREEMENT

Probably the most important document that you read and sign is your lease agreement. Your lease

agreement is a contract between you as a resident or tenant and the Housing Authority of Hannibal

as landlords, and it is legally binding on both yourself and the Authority. Both you and the

Authority have responsibilities under this contract. Ask questions of us about any part which you

do not understand because the most common cause of misunderstanding between the tenant and

the management is failure to abide by the terms of the lease agreement.

MAIN POINTS TO REMEMBER

1. Your rent is due and payable on the first (1) working day of each month, and must be received no later that the fifth (5) working day. After the 5th working day a late charge will be added to

your account. We request that payments be made by money order or check. Prompt payment of

your rent is a MUST.

2. It is important that you maintain your premises (House & Yard) in a good and clean condition. Keep your yard clean of all debris (paper, cans and bottles) at all times. Your yard is your

responsibility.

3. Advise the Authority promptly of any changes in your income or number of persons in your family.

4. Do not use the premises for commercial purposes.

5. Do not sublet or transfer possession of the premises nor give accommodation to lodgers or boarders.

6. Pets are permitted according to the rules of the Pet Policy.

7. Do not make any repairs to your apartment. Call the office if there are any repairs needed. Do not call after hours unless it is an emergency!!!! Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru

Friday, closed Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS ONLY:

Maintenance Night Service:

Robert Dwyer for Laura Hawkins & Schwartz 221-5710

All other sites call 231-6575


Resident Handbook

SECURITY DEPOSIT

As a token of good faith against loss resulting from negligence or indifference, each tenant is

required to deposit with the Authority an amount equal to one (1) month’s rent or $60.00

whichever is greater as security. This money is held by the Authority in an account for the entire

time that you remain in the apartment as a Tenant. Upon moving from the apartment this sum is

refunded in full, provided the Apartment is left in a clean and undamaged condition,

reasonable wear and use excepted, and that ALL rental and miscellaneous charges have been paid

in full.

Any charges to the tenant left unpaid or any damage to the dwelling unit or yard not the result of

normal wear and use, will be deducted from the security deposit when the tenant moves from the

apartment. Any damages beyond the security deposit must also be paid by the tenant.

No less than one-third of the Security Deposit will be due on move-in. The remainder must be

made in two equal installments with the next two month’s rent. Security Deposits are returnable

within thirty (30) days from the day you move out, providing no damage has occurred and the

apartment is left clean.

RENT COLLECTION POLICY

1. According to the terms of your lease, rents are due and payable on the 1st working day of each month. Payments made after the 5th working day of the month are subject to a late payment

charge of $5.00 per month for each month past due.

2. Request for rent extensions due to unusual circumstances must be made before the 5th working day of the month. Requests for extensions must be made in writing; such requests must set out

the reasons for tenant’s request for an extension. Extension will be approved or not approved in

the discretion of the Executive Director, subject to review by the Hannibal Housing Authority

Board.

3. Excess utility charges and work order charges are due and payable on the first working day of each month and not later than the 5th working day of the month.

4. All delinquent accounts where no extension has been approved, will be given a notice to pay all charges within 3 days. If full payment is not made within 3 days, legal action against the

tenant may be authorized by the Executive Director.

5. At the conclusion of the 3-day period, the Executive Director is authorized to notify tenant in writing, either in person or by regular mail, to vacate the premises.

6. If such 14-day notice is provided and tenant does not peaceably surrender property within the 14-day period, a lawsuit for rent and possession may be authorized by the Executive Director.

7. If legal action is taken against tenant, tenant will be required to pay court costs and attorney


Resident Handbook

fees as provided in tenant's Dwelling Lease.

8. The Hannibal Housing Authority, its Board, and its officers and employees may take whatever action authorized by law to recover possession of the premises delinquent rent, late charges,

court cost, and attorney fees after legal action has been instituted.

UTILITIES

The Authority agrees to furnish water and sewer services to the tenant without additional charge

for Projects MO 129-1 Atoka & Shawnee Trail (family), MO 129-2 (Laura Hawkins Hall) and Mo

129-5 (Schwartz Manor); electric will be furnished up to the allotted kilowatt amount per month,

any excess will be charged to the tenant. Cost per kilowatt is based on demand and is figured by the

Board of Public Works.

All utilities are furnished by TENANTS for Project MO 129-4 and MO 129-6.

The following allowances will be given to tenants for payment of their utilities:

Project MO 129-4: 1-13B Starlight Ridge, James Road, Country Lane, and Union Street.

2 Bedroom Units-$78.00


Project MO 129-6: Hope Street, Green Meadow Drive, 1404-1418 30th Street, 2909-2921

Starlight Ridge and 2906-2922 Moonlight Drive.


PEST CONTROL

The Authority agrees to furnish pest control service without additional charge. Family units are

serviced monthly and elderly units every other month. The Authority reserves the right to allow

pest control person to enter your unit on the scheduled time of the month.

EXTRA CHARGES

Extra charges for breakage or damage to the apartment or premises are collectible in the same

manner as unpaid rent. Such charges are payable as soon as you are notified of the amount due.

Extra kilowatt hours used by the tenant are due by the first working day of the month, at the same

time as your rent, but are not considered overdue until the end of the month.

No change will be made in the rent charge, whether up or down, between examinations; except in

the case of a change in the income of a family or a change in Federal Regulations.

INSPECTIONS


Resident Handbook

Annual inspections are done on a scheduled time before lease expiration date. Periodic inspections

of the apartments and equipment, with preceding notice to tenants, will be made if there is any

reason to suspect a unit is not being properly maintained by the tenant.

ANNUAL RE-EXAMINATION

Your rent is based upon the income of your family and your family size. When your application for

housing was approved and your present apartment was assigned to you, the entire income of your

family for the year was established and determined your eligibility for family housing.

In order that the Authority may be up to date on this very important matter, it is necessary to make

what is called an Annual Re-examination with you. When you are notified once each year that you

are to come to the office for a re-examination, it means that we need to know three (3) things, and

all items must be documented in writing:

1. From whom you and the members of your family receive income, and what amount?

2. Is there any change in the size of your family?

3. Are you still in the right size apartment according to the sex of your children

RIGHT OF ENTRY

The Authority reserves the right to enter your dwelling unit at reasonable hours, after notifying

you, to inspect the unit, to check or repair the equipment, to repaint the dwelling unit; and in case

of an emergency, without notification, to protect the property. This right of entry is reserved

whether or not you or any member of your family is at home; however, the Authority will schedule

visits to your apartment only at a time when you are at home, if possible.

COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY

Pleasant community life depends upon your consideration for your neighbor and mutual

cooperation and understanding. The observance of a few simple rules will help to make your life in

the development more pleasant.

First and foremost abide by the Golden Rule, DO UNTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE

THEM DO UNTO YOU.

Keep an eye on your children and do not allow them to annoy others. Teach them to observe

ordinary rules of safety, good behavior, cleanliness, and to use the playground areas, not the street.

Children are welcome in the development, and they are expected to grow into useful, healthy

citizens with good family discipline.


Resident Handbook

Because your neighbors are very close, it is the responsibility of each family to observe certain

rules of courtesy. DO NOT play your radio or TV too loud. If you have guests, ask them to be

considerate also. Think of your neighbors; please have some consideration for day sleepers or sick

people in your neighborhood. ALL loud noises are to be muffled after 10 p.m.

OVERHEAD POWER LINES

Due to the overhead power lines, we will not allow kite flying within the project. Nylon or other

type string sometimes has a small wire woven into it. This wire can cause the electricity to be

carried to the person on the other end and can be fatal due to high voltage. If anything gets lodged

in the wires please call the office. DO NOT TOUCH THE STRING on the ground or in the air.

MOTORCYCLES

Only tenants will be permitted to have motorcycles on the premises, and continuous complaints of

excessive noise are grounds for termination of your lease agreement.

PARKING VEHICLES

Parking spaces are provided for each unit, and on street parking where marked. Park vehicles only

in spaces provided for that purpose! DO NOT PARK ON LAWNS OR SIDEWALKS! Drive

slowly and observe safety precautions. The speed limit in the apartment area is 15 mph. Any

vehicle illegally parked will be towed away at the owner’s expense, and the Authority will not be

responsible for any damages.

Vehicles without current license plates and/or stickers, not in operating condition are subject to

being towed away at the owner’s expense if left over three (3) days. Do not back into parking

spaces because your bumper may obstruct the sidewalk. DO NOT STRADDLE THE YELLOW

LINES! THIS IS A VIOLATION!

KEYS AND LOCKOUTS

Two keys to your apartment are issued to you when you move in. Be very careful that they are not

misplaced. If you should lose either of your keys, a duplicate may be purchased (at cost) at the

Authority office. A charge of $15.00 will be made for lockouts after working hours.

When you move out of your apartment, you must return two (2) keys to the office. You will be

charged for each key not returned. A $2.00 charge is levied for each key not returned.

PHOTO ID PROGRAM


Resident Handbook

The Hannibal Housing Authority has established a Photo ID Program for the Resident of Public

Housing.

As of August 1996, any and all Public Housing Residents ages 12 years old through adult are

required to obtain a PHOTO ID upon moving in. It is the resident’s responsibility to obtain their

Photo ID. You may contact Shelley at Ext. 5 at the Housing Authority office. If you do not comply

with this policy it may be grounds for termination of your lease.

POLICE SUBSTATION

Through a joint effort between the Housing Authority and the Hannibal Police Department (2) on

site Police Sub-Stations have been opened. They are located at 26 Shawnee Trail the Phone # is

221-2256 and at 1913 Hope Street the Phone# is 248-1590 or Security-Charlie Wells at

1-800-425-0237.

FENCES

The physical appearance of the project area is very important, and is a matter in which we should

take considerable pride; therefore, NO FENCES CAN BE CONSTRUCTED WITHIN THE

PROJECT AREA!

GROUNDS AND YARDS

Each tenant is required to care for his own front, back, and side yard, if any. This includes pulling

weeds out of flowerbeds, snow removal and picking up paper, cans and other debris. The

Authority will maintain all public areas, trim, and spray and prune shrubs. Tenants may plant

flowers only in areas designated by the Authority office.

If it becomes necessary, and we hope it does not, the Authority will clean the yards of the tenant

areas, and because we DO NOT want the job, the charges will be a good deal higher than the cost

to the Authority.

SINKS AND LAVATORIES

Report any leaks or stoppage promptly. (MAY WE SUGGEST THAT YOU KEEP A

PLUMBERS FRIEND ON HAND AT ALL TIMES.) Strainers should NOT be removed from

drains. New stoppers may be obtained at the Authority office in exchange for worn stoppers. Care

should be exercised to prevent chipping or staining the enamel or stainless steel sinks. DO NOT

DISPOSE OF GARBAGE, GREASE, OR COFFEE GROUNDS IN SINK DRAINS. Such refuse

can cause plumbing troubles and invariably lead to costs to the tenant for plumbing repairs.

Charges will be made for any stoppage caused by negligence of the tenant.

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR FIBERGLASS BATHTUBS


Resident Handbook

DO NOT use powders or other abrasive cleaners (Use of abrasive cleaners could void the product

warranty.) Use liquid cleaners only, such as Formula 409, Mr. Clean, and others with similar

chemical content. CAUTION: CLEANER CONTAINERS SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO

STAND ON A SURFACE COVERED WITH CLEANER FOR MORE THAN A FEW

MOMENTS!

DO NOT use sharp objects to remove spills. Razor blades, knives, wire brushes, and the like will

scratch the surface. If the glossy surface loses its sheen, it can be restored with a readily available

white automotive type liquid rubbing compound.

WALLS AND FLOORS

The walls in your apartment are sheet rock, (plaster and concrete). DO NOT DRIVE LARGE

NAILS INTO THE WALLS. This will cause the walls to chip and break and you will be charged

for damage of this nature. DO NOT USE DRY WALL ANCHORS (MOLLY SCREWS). These

cannot be removed without replacing a part of the sheet rock. For hanging pictures and mirrors, use

picture hangers especially made for use of sheet rock. These are available at most variety and

hardware stores.

DO NOT drive nails into walls, doors, door facing, or other trim in your apartment at any time. DO

NOT INSTALL CEILING FANS.

For cleaning your walls and woodwork a mild solution of soap and water or a mild cleaner may be

used. DO NOT use a harsh cleaner or strong soap, as this will remove the paint from the walls and

woodwork. DO NOT use a strong abrasive cleaner on your Formica as this will cause scratches.

The kitchen and bathroom walls are painted and may be cleaned the same as the walls in the rest of

the apartment. Do not attempt to paint the walls without the Authority’s permission as certain color

and brand of paint is recommended.

SAFETY MEASURES

For your protection and the protection of your neighbors, we ask that you abide by the following

recommendations:

1. DO NOT use inflammable materials for cleaning.

2. DO NOT paint near an open flame, and ventilate well.

3. DONOT have cans of gasoline or other inflammable material in your apartment.

4. DO NOT place oily rags in your apartment or closets.

5. DO NOT leave small children at home alone.


Resident Handbook

6. DO NOT leave your cook stove on while you are out.

7. DO NOT hang clothes or store inflammable materials on or near furnace or water heater.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND CARE OF EQUIPMENT

Keep range and oven clean at all times. DO NOT let grease and food collect on burners, drip pans,

or trays in your oven and broiler as this is a fire hazard. If adjustments are necessary, contact the

Authority office. A maintenance employee will be available to instruct you on the use of your

range, refrigerator, water heater, and heaters. If the range is not kept properly cleaned, the

Authority will clean it and you will be charged for this service. This charge will be a great deal

higher than the cost to the Authority. PLEASE KEEP THE FILTER IN THE BATHROOM &

KITCHEN VENTS CLEAN.

REFRIGERATOR

Keep your refrigerator clean on the inside and outside. DO NOT allow dust to accumulate

underneath or in the back of your refrigerator. DO NOT hang clothes or rags in the back of the

refrigerator. Should your refrigerator need adjusting feel free to call the Authority office.

HOT WATER HEATER

Your hot water heater will be in working order when you move into your apartment. Please DO

NOT tamper with the thermostatic controls. If your heater does not work properly, call the office

and a maintenance man will be sent to repair it

ELECTRIC HEAT

Your heaters are thermostatically controlled and are designed to heat your apartment. If it fails to

operate properly, please call the office. When heat is NOT needed in your apartment, be sure to cut

off your heat with the wall thermostat.

LAURA HAWKINS HALL & SCHWARTZ MANORS only—Clean your

heating/air-conditioning filter monthly, summer and winter. DO NOT PUSH SHARP OBJECTS

AND LARGE BOXES IN THE TRASH CHUTES! PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU

ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL DAMAGES TO YOUR APARTMENT OTHER THAN

NORMAL WEAR AND USE, REGARDLESS OF HOW THEY OCCUR!

SATELLITE DISH’S

1. All satellite dishes MUST be the smaller diameter type.


Resident Handbook

2. NO satellite dish will be installed before written approval of the Hannibal Housing Authority is given.

3. A housing representative MUST be present at the time of installation to determine where the dish will be located and where holes may be drilled.

4. NO satellite dish will be located in the yard and must be located on the structure.

This policy is the official policy of the Hannibal Housing Authority and anyone installing a dish

and not following the above requirements will be required to remove them.

ANTENNAS—WINDOW FANS—AIR CONDITIONERS

NO outside radio or TV Antennas will be allowed. There are two (2) cable outlets in your

apartment, one in the living room and one in the bedroom. There will be a monthly fee from the

CABLE TV COMPANY for these outlets. No window fans may be attached to the building—you

may set portable fans only in the windows.

There is an outlet for a 220-volt conditioner provided in the living room. You may install other

smaller air conditioners in the other windows to run off of 115 volt with the approval of the

Authority office.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Like any other landlord, the Hannibal Housing Authority is not responsible for loss of, or damage

to, personal property. You must obtain your own personal property insurance.

REDECORATING

At the end of a four-year period, the Authority will paint the interior of each unit. The color used

will be chosen by the Authority, COLOR CHANGES MAY NOT BE MADE WITHOUT THE

PERMISSION OF THE AUTHORITY! When you are notified your unit is going to be painted,

you will be expected to remove all pictures and hangers from the walls and take down all curtains

and drapes. If you want your pictures to hang in the same places, put a toothpick in the hole made

by the hanger to mark the place for the painter.

PEACE DISTURBANCE

In the event of disturbance of the peace, such as noisy cars, fighting, yelling, noisy parties,


Resident Handbook

profanity, or any other loud noises, get all the information possible and call the Police Department.

THE AUTHORITY WILL NOT TOLERATE THESE CONDITIONS!

MOVING OUT

Your lease agreement requires that you give the Authority fifteen (15) days written notice in the

event you intend to move. This notice is required in writing at the Authority office and is necessary

in order that the Authority may interview, investigate, and select a new tenant to occupy the

vacancy.

Turn in your keys when you move out. The charge for keys not turned in is $2.00 each. Notify the

Housing Authority office and the Post Office of your change of address.

RUMORS

IGNORE THEM! If you want the facts, ask the Authority.

MISCELLANEOUS

BB guns, air rifles or guns of any type are not allowed to be displayed in any manner outside your

living quarters. If your children own a gun of this type make sure they do not display it on Housing

Authority property. This is a violation of your lease, if they do so, and we will begin termination of

lease immediately.

Supervision of your children is very important, especially during the summer school vacation

months. Please be advised that we have a large number of children in a small area.

Please do not destroy the property of others.

FLAGRANT VIOLATIONS OF THE RULES ARE GROUNDS FOR EVICTION!!!

SUMMARY

These rules and suggestions are not meant to restrict you in your new home but to familiarize you


Resident Handbook

with those items about which you will want to be informed from time to time. We cannot hope to

cover everything in this booklet about which numerous questions will undoubtedly arise. We

reserve the right, therefore, to add to or change the instructions and suggestions contained herein

without further notice. Please write any change in the back of this book for ready reference.

The Housing Authority of the City of Hannibal, Missouri, wishes you a pleasant stay in your new

home and every success for your future.

CHARGE LIST

The following charges will be made for REPAIRS to your apartment or yard. Items not listed here

will be charges to the tenant by the hour and cost of the item that has to be replaced. (Prices are

subject to change without notice)

CHARGE LIST

ITEM CHARGES


Resident Handbook

Change Door Locks 32.50

Replace Curtain Rods 2.00

Door Repair (depending on damage) 4.00 to 30.00

Door Keys 2.00

Glass Breakage (windows, doors, et.) 85.00 to 110.00

Glass Shelf (for medicine cabinet) 4.00

Holders (towel, toilet paper, soap, glass) 3.50

Lock-Outs: After Working Hours 15.00

Range Replacement Parts 2.00 to 19.00

Water Closet:

Re-setting 15.00

Replacing 80.00

Refrigerator Damage 16.00 to 350.00

Replacing Door Locks 35.00

Replacing Mirrors (in medicine cabinets) 14.00

Replacing Window Shades (depending on size 7.00

(Life of shade is 3 to 5 years)

Sink Stoppage:

Maintenance Department 3.50 to 15.00

Roto Rooter 65.00

Screen Repair 5.25 & up

Storm Door Replacement 220.00

Sink Strainer 3.00 to 5.50

Toilet Seat 8.50

Toilet Stoppage:

Maintenance Department 10.00

Roto Rooter 85.00

Toilet Tank Cover 20.00

Cleaning of Grounds 15.00 & up

Replacement of Trees, Lawn & Shrubs 20.00 to 50.00

Cutting Lawns & Trimming 15.00 & up

Repair hole in wall (depending on size) 10.00 to 20.00

Replace overhead light cover 5.00 to 10.00

Replace broiler pan 20.00 to 25.00

Replace glass cover on outside light 5.00

Charge for Cleaning Range 30.00

Charge for Cleaning Refrigerator 30.00

Repair to Cabinet Door 10.00

1 Dryer Vent Outside 5.00

1 Circle Light 10.00 to 15.00

HANNIBAL HOUSING AUTHORITY

NOTICE FROM THE


Resident Handbook

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

TRANSFER POLICY

For residents wanting to move from one place to another, the

Hannibal Housing Authority has a transfer policy in place.

You may move in one of the following ways:

1. For Medical Reasons

2. Because of a change in family composition

3. If WE request you to move

4. If you pay UP FRONT all costs it takes to get the unit you

are moving out of, ready to re-rent *

* A Maintenance person will inspect your unit and give you an

estimate of what the “get ready” costs would be. You have to

have this in cash, up front plus $100.00. After you move, we

will repair and fix your unit and refund any amount less of

what we collected from you if any.

Jack L. McCord, E.D.

HOUSEKEEPING & CLEANING GUIDE

We are required by HUD to do complete inspections and house care is the greater

part of the inspection process.


Resident Handbook

This guide may present to you methods that you are already aware of. It may also

present some new ideas for the easiest way to clean and organize.

KITCHEN: The best place to begin and the most difficult to keep clean &

organized. It’s also the first place to accommodate pests, such as roaches and mice.

Food & food particles left on plates, table, counters, and cooking surfaces become

the main dining area & main course for uninvited guests.

Dishwashing may be one of the most disliked chores in cleaning and

housekeeping, so do it first……

Clean all dishes, pots & pans of leftover food.

Stored food to be kept in a covered container in the refrigerator.

Place throwaway food inside used foil or plastic bags from your local store, close

tightly and place in garbage for “trash day”.

One day’s dishes should not be left over until the next day.

Wipe counters, table, stove, and refrigerator.

Complete the job: Wash, Dry, and Put Away…..

Grease splatters & spills seem to cause most major stove/range problems when

they are not cleaned properly. This can also be a fire hazard.

Before you use the stove turn on the ventilating fan to control cooking odors.

Keep filter clean with warm sudsy water, do it often.

Wipe food spills and splatters with clean damp cloth or paper towel.

Remove & wash drip pans in hot sudsy water, rinse & dry completely.

Wipe off metal rings around electric units.

In most cases the stovetop will raise to wipe spills that pass through drip pans.

The OVEN is much easier to clean if spills are wiped up after each use as soon as

it cools.

REFRIGERATOR: Should be cleaned inside and out at least once a week.

DO NOT restrict the airflow vents in the freezer section & DO NOT over fill as it

will cause severe damage to the unit.

BATHROOM: Bathrooms are also a place for germs and pests to collect. Damp

towels and dirty clothes are the perfect atmosphere.

Place Basket or Hamper for laundry in the bathroom. Note: Hang WET clothes,

damp towels & washcloths to dry before placing in hamper.

Toilet bowls should be brushed and sanitized at least once a week. With the seat

raised be sure to brush under the inside rim of the bowl. Then wipe the outside of

the toilet including the base with a cloth or paper towel.

GARBAGE/TRASH: Garbage is definitely high on the list to attract all kinds of


Resident Handbook

pests and animals.

Bag all garbage appropriately and store in a closed container to wait for trash day

or take to dumpster daily.

Your area has dumpsters/large metal containers, be sure the person taking the

trash is tall enough and strong enough to get the trash completely in the container.

Know the schedule of your garbage pick-up.

Each person has a level of clean, but that level must meet the cleanliness and sanitary

requirements for housing quality inspections. This guide should help you maintain

your unit to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing for you and your family.

Create a system from this information that is right for you so your space is clean and

is in order on a daily basis, NOT just for “Inspection Day”.

SCHEDULE OF


RESIDENT PROGRAMS/RESOURCES


Resident Handbook

1. RESIDENT COUNCIL MEETING: All Residents are invited to attend,

Check monthly newsletter for time and date.

2. GED/ADULT COMPUTER CLASSES: Every Tuesday 6p.m.—9p.m.

3. YOUTH ART & CRAFT CLASSES: Every Wednesday 6p.m.—8p.m.

4. GIRL SCOUT MEETINGS: Every Thursday 3:30p.m. —5:00p.m.

5. AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING & RESOURCE LIBRARY: Open during

the school year 3:30p.m.—5:00p.m. Monday, Wednesday, & Friday

6. YMCA YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM: Enrollment free to all public housing

youth. 7 Sports throughout the year. *Must register at the Housing Office to

attend FREE.

7. CUB SCOUTING PROGRAM

8. SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM: June—August 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

9. NATIONAL YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM @ QUINCY UNIVERSITY:

June-August, Monday-Thursday, ALL DAY, Transportation Provided

10. HOME OWNERSHIP COUNSELING PROGRAM YEAR ROUND: For

Information Contact the Resident Initiative Program at the Housing Authority

Office, Extension #4

*There are other specialized programs and activities throughout the year. They are

listed in the Monthly Newsletter that is delivered to all residents the first (1st) week

of each month. All of the programs listed above may not be currently available.

Check with the Housing Authority office for program availability.


PET POLICY

In compliance with Section 526 of The Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of

1998, PHA residents shall be permitted to own and keep common household pets. Animals

that are auxiliary for persons with a disability are excluded from this policy. The ownership


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of common household pets is a subject to the following rules and limitations:

1. Common household pets shall be defined as “domesticated animals such as dogs, cats, birds, rodents, fish, or turtles”. Common household pets are further defined as follows:

a. Birds: Includes canary, parakeet, finch, and other species that are normally kept caged; birds of prey are not permitted.

b. Fish: In tanks or aquariums, not to exceed 20 gallons in capacity; poisonous or dangerous fish are not permitted.

c. Dogs: Not to exceed twenty-five pounds (25 lbs.) weight, or fifteen (15) inches in height at full growth. Dogs must be spayed or neutered. Veterinarians

recommended/suggested types of dogs are listed as follows:

(1) Chihuahua (5) Cocker Spaniel

(2) Pekingese (6) Dachshund

(3) Poodle (7) Terriers

(4) Schnauzer

NO AGGRESSIVE OR VICIOUS ANIMALS WILL BE PREMITTED

(i.e. Pit Bulls or Chows)

d. Cats: Cats must be spayed or neutered and be de-clawed or have a scratching post, and should not exceed fifteen pounds (15 lbs.)

e. Rodents: Rodents other than hamsters, gerbils, white rats, or mice are not considered common household pets. These animals must be kept in appropriate

cages.

f. Reptiles: Reptiles other than turtles or small lizards such as chameleons are not considered common household pets.

g. Exotic Pets: At no time will the PHA approve of exotic pets, such as snakes, monkeys, game pets, etc.

2. Residents who choose to have pets are advised of their responsibilities under Missouri State Law as follows:

a. Animal Neglect or Abandonment: Any person convicted of failure to provide adequate care or adequate control of an animal, so that an animal does not injure

itself, any person, any other animal, or property is guilty of a Class C Misdemeanor


Resident Handbook

with a maximum fine of $500.00 and a maximum sentence of fifteen (15) days

imprisonment. A second conviction is a Class B Misdemeanor with a maximum

fine of $1000.00 and a maximum sentence of six (6) months imprisonment.

b. Animal Abuse: Any person convicted of knowingly failing to provide adequate care or adequate control of an animal is guilty of a Class A Misdemeanor with a

maximum fine of $1000.00 and a maximum sentence of one (1) year imprisonment.

A second conviction is a Class D Felony with a maximum fine of $5,000.00 and a

maximum sentence of five (5) years imprisonment.

3. No more than one (1) dog or cat shall be permitted in a household. In the case of birds, a maximum of two birds may be permitted. There shall be no limit as to the number of fish,

but no more than one aquarium with a maximum capacity of twenty (20) gallons shall be

permitted. A Resident with a dog or cat may also have other categories of “common

household pets” as defined above.

4. `Pets other than a dog or cat shall be confined to an appropriate cage or container. Such a pet may be removed from its cage while inside the owner’s apartment for the purpose of

handling, but shall not generally be unrestrained.

5. Only one (1) dog or cat is allowed per household. All dogs and cats will need to be on a leash, tied up, of otherwise restrained at all times when they are outside. Neither dogs nor

cats shall be permitted to run loose.

6. Pet owners shall maintain their pet in such a manner as to prevent any damage to their unit, yard, or common areas of the community in which they live. The animal shall be

maintained so as not to be a nuisance or a threat to the health, safety, or right to peaceful

enjoyment of neighbors, PHA employees, of the public by reason of noise, unpleasant

odor, or other objectionable situations.

7. Each pet owner shall be fully responsible for the care of the pet, including proper disposal of pet wastes in a safe and sanitary manner. Specific instructions for pet waste shall be

available in the management office. Improper pet waste disposal is a lease violation and

may be grounds for termination.

8. Residents must provide litter boxes for cat waste, which is to be kept inside the unit. Residents shall not permit refuse from litter boxes to accumulate or become unsightly or

unsanitary.

9. Residents are responsible for cleaning up of pet droppings if any, outside the unit and on facility grounds. Removable pet waste must be disposed of by being placed in a sack, and

then placed in the resident’s own garbage can outside of the unit.

10. The PHA may impose a separate pet waste non-removal fee of $25.00 per occurrence of pet owners who fail to remove pet waste.

11. Residents shall not alter their unit, patio, or unit area in order to create an enclosure for any


Resident Handbook

pet.

12. Residents are prohibited from caring, feeding, or keeping stray animals. The feeding of stray animals shall constitute having a pet without written permission of the PHA. No guest

or any other person may bring a pet temporarily onto the premises, except animals in an

Authority approved visiting program sponsored by the Humane Society.

13. All pets shall be inoculated and licensed in accordance with applicable state and local laws. All cats and dogs shall be neutered or spayed, unless a veterinarian certifies that the

spaying or neutering would be inappropriate or unnecessary (because of health, age, etc.).

14. Visiting pets may be allowed as long as they generally conform to the guidelines expressed in this policy, except that: no additional security deposit shall be required of the Resident

whom the pet is visiting unless the visit is in excess of seventy-two (72) hours, and two (2)

verified complaints shall be grounds for excluding the pet from further visits.

15. All pets shall be registered with the Management Office immediately or no longer than ten (10) days following their introduction to the community. Registration shall consist of

providing:

a. Basic information about the pet (type, age, description, name, etc.);

b. Proof of inoculation and licensing will be required upon submitting an initial request for a pet and annually with recertification each year thereafter;

c. Proof of neutering or spaying. All female dogs over the age of six (6) months and female cats over the age of five (5) months must be spayed. All male dogs over the

age of eight (8) months and all male cats over the age of ten (10) months must be

neutered. If health problems prevent such spaying or neutering, a veterinarian’s

certificate will be necessary to allow the pet to become or continue to be a resident

of the community;

d. Payment of a nominal fee of $7.00 a month, to defray the cost of potential damage done by the pet to the unit or common areas of the community. There shall be no

additional fee for pets other than dogs or cats. The additional fee shall not preclude

charges to a resident for repair or damages done on an ongoing basis by a pet. The

resident is responsible for all damages caused by the pet and will reimburse the

Authority for all costs it incurs in repairing such damages. This is a non-refundable

fee.

e. If a resident cannot care for their pet due to an illness, absence, or death, and no other person can be found to care for the pet, after twenty-four (24) hours have

elapsed, the resident hereby gives permission for the pet to be released to the

Humane Society/Animal Control, in accordance with their procedures. In no case

shall the PHA incur any costs or liability for the care of a pet placed in the care of

another individual or agency under this procedure.


Resident Handbook

16. Any litigation resulting from actins by pets shall be the sole responsibility of the pet owner. The pet owner agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the PHA from all claims, causes of

action damages or expenses, including attorney’s fees, resulting from the action or the

activities of his or her pet. The PHA accepts NO RESPONSIBILITY for any pet under any

circumstance. The PHA strongly advises Residents to obtain liability insurance.

17. PET PRIVILEGE REVOKED: The privilege to maintain a pet in a facility owned by the PHA may be revoked at any time if the animal should become destructive, create a

nuisance, represent a threat to the safety or security of the other residents or persons, or

create a problem in the area of cleanliness and sanitation.

18. BREACHES: Should a breach of these rules occur, the PHA will exercise any remedy granted in removing the pet from the premises.


PET POLICY AGREEMENT

I understand that I am required to submit my pets updated shot record and license to the Housing

Authority on an annual basis with my recertification application.

Pets Name: Type or Pet:

Inoculations (type and Date):


Resident Handbook

License Dates: Spay/Neuter Date:

Provide the name, address, and phone number of one or more persons who will care for the

pet if you are unable to do so. This information will be updated annually.

Name: Phone:

Address:

NOTE: This policy is an agreement between the head of household and the Hannibal Housing

Authority and needs to be signed only if a pet is in the household.

As head of household, I have read the Hannibal Housing Authority pet policy and understand these

provisions. I agree to abide by these provisions fully and understand that permission will be

revoked if I fail to do so. Failure to comply with any part of they above and/or to take corrective

action after sufficient notice of the violation shall be cause for termination of the lease. I have

received a copy of this policy.

Name (please print) Community or Building Unit Number

Resident Signature Date

Hannibal Housing Authority Signature Date

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