ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This article presents qualitative research findings of Section 8 landlord perceptions regarding healthy housing practices to inform landlord-focused initiatives. Approach or Design: Five focus groups were conducted with landlords. SETTING: Boston, Massachusetts. PARTICIPANTS: Section 8 landlords participated in focus groups (n = 39). METHOD: Focus group transcripts were coded for key themes using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS: Landlords' primary challenges to creating a healthy housing environment included tenant behavior, financial burden, and policy enforcement; tenant safety and cost savings were seen as primary benefits. CONCLUSION: Landlords play a critical role in implementing healthy housing practices. Several opportunities exist to reduce barriers and capitalize on perceived benefits of implementing these practices, including increasing access to educational and financial resources.
