This week on Knowing More, we talked to residents about guests who stay too long.
On the flip side, let’s talk about how you can handle this as a property manager.

When a guest becomes an unauthorized occupant, it can put compliance at risk.
hud doesn’t ban guests.
But it does require that all household members be approved.
So when someone crosses that line, you need to take action.

Start with the lease.
Most properties limit guest stays to 14 consecutive days or 30 days total in a year.
If that limit is exceeded, here are a few steps you can take:

Request documentation.
Send a lease reminder.
Require the guest to apply for approval.
And if necessary, begin lease enforcement.

Make sure to document everything—conversations, notices, and patterns of behavior.
Look for common signs of unauthorized occupancy:
Getting mail at the unit.
Staying overnight regularly.
Bringing in belongings.
Or appearing to live there full-time.

This isn’t personal.
It’s about protecting the lease, the subsidy, and your property’s compliance.
So, Stick to your policy.
Follow HUD guidance.
And communicate clearly with your residents.

Knowing more keeps you compliant—and in control.