What does the annual HQS inspection involve?
The goal of the HQS is to ensure that the voucher holder is living in safe, sanitary, and decent housing. The standards are based on the minimum criteria necessary for the health and safety of the occupants. The inspection focuses on the key aspects of housing quality: sanitary facilities; 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; site and neighborhood; sanitary condition; and smoke detectors. The inspection is performed before any legal contracts are introduced. If a unit does not pass the HQS inspection, the landlord is under no obligation to make repairs. If the landlord chooses to make the necessary repairs, the inspector will work with the landlord and PHA to set a time limit. (That time limit varies on an individual basis, as determined by the inspector. It generally depends on the anticipated time needed for the repair, the ori
