Trusted Local Resources in Wake County for Tenant Assistance
When you're facing eviction or other housing problems, knowing where to turn for help is crucial. Here are some key resources in Wake County that may be able to assist you.
On This Page: Wake County Resources
1. Legal Aid of North Carolina (LANC)
Services: LANC provides free legal services in civil matters (including housing and eviction cases) to low-income North Carolinians. They can offer legal advice, representation in court, and help with negotiating with landlords. They are the primary resource for free legal help in eviction cases.
Contact:
- Phone (Helpline): 1-866-219-5262 (statewide, apply by phone)
- Website: www.legalaidnc.org (Apply online or find local office info. The Raleigh office serves Wake County.)
- Raleigh Office Address (for reference): 224 S. Dawson St., Raleigh, NC 27601 (Confirm current address if visiting in person is advised after initial contact).
Note for Users: Due to high demand, it's important to contact LANC as soon as you receive an eviction notice or face a serious housing issue. Eligibility is based on income and other factors.
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2. Wake County Health and Human Services - Housing & Community Revitalization
Services: While not providing legal representation, this county department offers various programs that might assist tenants, including emergency financial assistance (when available, often for rent or utilities to prevent homelessness), information on subsidized housing, and referrals to other support services.
Contact:
- General Wake County Health & Human Services Phone: 919-212-7000 (Ask for Housing services or specific emergency assistance programs)
- Website: Search "Wake County Housing Assistance" or navigate through the Wake County Government website: www.wake.gov. Look for programs like "Wake Prevent!" or emergency rental assistance.
Note for Users: Availability of financial assistance is often limited and subject to funding. It's good to check their website or call for the most current information on available programs.
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3. DHIC (formerly Downtown Housing Improvement Corporation)
Services: DHIC is a non-profit organization focused on developing affordable housing. While their primary role isn't emergency eviction defense, they offer homeownership counseling and financial education that can be beneficial for long-term housing stability. They may also be aware of rental assistance resources or have affordable properties (though waitlists can be long).
Contact:
Note for Users: Good for exploring long-term affordable housing options and financial literacy.
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4. Tenant Rights Clinics / Pro Bono Services
Services: Occasionally, law schools (like Campbell University, Duke University, UNC School of Law – though UNC & Duke are not in Wake, their clinics might sometimes serve or partner) or local bar associations (like the Wake County Bar Association) may host tenant rights clinics or have pro bono programs where volunteer attorneys provide free consultations or limited assistance.
Contact:
- Check the Legal Aid of NC website for clinic announcements.
- Wake County Bar Association website: www.wakecountybar.org (look for "Pro Bono" or "Public Service" sections).
Note for Users: These are not always regularly scheduled, so it requires checking their websites or calling LANC for information on upcoming clinics.
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5. Call 2-1-1 (United Way / NC 2-1-1)
Services: NC 2-1-1 is a free, confidential information and referral service. By dialing 2-1-1, callers can get connected to a wide range of health and human services, which can include housing assistance, emergency shelters, and financial aid programs if available in their area.
Contact:
Note for Users: A good starting point if you're unsure where to go or need a broad range of assistance referrals.
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Tips for Users When Contacting Resources:
- Be Prepared: Have your lease, any notices from your landlord, and income information ready.
- Be Persistent: These organizations are often very busy. If you don't get through immediately, try again.
- Be Clear and Concise: Explain your situation and what help you need.
- Act Quickly: Especially with eviction, time is very limited.
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