Inspections

Rental Subsidy Programs must follow Federal Housing regulations which requires all units that will receive rental subsidy to pass a Housing Quality Standard Inspection (HQS) prior to move in and bi-annually or annually thereafter.  The intent of these inspections is to ensure tenants are living in safe and habitable conditions.  This is beneficial and provides protection for Property Owners/Managers as well as tenants.

Key aspects of the home that are evaluated are:

• Sanitation

• Food preparation and refuse disposal

• Space and Security

• Thermal Environment

• Illumination and Electricity

• Structure and Materials

• Interior Air Quality

• Water Supply

• Lead-based Paint

• Access

• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detection

Inspections occur Initially (prior to move in), Annually or Biannually, and upon Special Request.

For initial inspections the Property Owner/Manager will be contacted with in 24-48 hours after offer to arrange the inspection.  It is always the intention of to get the inspections done as quickly as possible to avoid any slow down in housing a tenant.  If the unit passes inspection no further action is required by the Property Owner/Manager and move in can happen that day.  If the unit does not pass the inspection the owner is given a list of items that must be repaired prior to move in.  

For annual or bi-annual inspections the tenant and owner/manager are notified in advance of the inspection.  If the unit passes inspection there is no further action needed.  If the unit does not pass inspection a letter is sent to the owner and tenant identifying the needed repairs and if the repair is a tenant responsibility or an owner responsibility.  Repairs are expected to be completed with in 30 days.  If there is a life threatening repair deficiency the repair must be completed with in 24 hours.  

Special inspections can be requested by a tenant or an owner/manager when there is cause to be concerned about the condition of a unit.  

If an Owner/Manager at any point cannot or does not perform the required repairs the action taken by the Housing Authority is to stop payment.