Ongoing Unit Inspections

All subsidized units are inspected at least every two years, and more often for units that fail inspection.  When an inspection is scheduled, notice is sent to the property owner and the tenant.  Tenants who miss one inspection appointment or recheck appointment are in violation of their Family Obligations under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and will be issued a Termination Notice for Non-compliance.

The Housing Authority inspector will inspect the unit to ensure it meets Housing Quality Standards (HQS).  The items on the checklist below must be in proper working condition or repaired prior to the HQS inspection:

  • All utilities must be turned on (PG&E and water).
  • Smoke detectors must be in proper working condition and properly mounted on each level of the unit, including the basement.
  • All rehabilitation work must be completed prior to inspection of the unit.
  • Exterior must be free of debris and garbage.
  • Windows that open to the outside must have working locks.  Each bedroom must have at least one operable window and if security bars are mounted, the bars must have an operable quick release device installed.
  • There must be a permanent heat source that is safe and in proper working order.
  • All electrical outlets and light switches must have cover plates.
  • All light sockets must have a light bulb installed.
  • All bathrooms must have an exhaust fan or an operable window for ventilation.
  • All appliances (stove, refrigerator, oven, etc.) must be in proper working condition.  All stove knobs and controls must be readable.
  • All sinks, faucets and plumbing must be free from leaks.
  • The unit must be free of vermin and pest infestation.
  • All painted surfaces must be free of chipping and/or peeling paint.
  • Carpet and other flooring must be clean and free of any tripping hazards.
  • A hand rail is required on all stairways with four or more steps.
  • Water heaters must have a Temperature Pressure Relief Valve and discharge line.  Discharge lines must be made of rigid pipe material that's rated for both high temperature and pressure.  This includes most rigid wall copper, iron and, in most places, chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC plastic not regular PVC).  Do not use garden hose or thin plastic pipe.

Non-Life Threatening Violations

If the unit fails the inspection as the result of non-life threatening violations, a letter listing the required repairs will be sent to the owner and tenant.  The owner and tenant are given 30 calendar days to complete the repairs and submit to the Housing Authority a signed self-certification form confirming all repairs have been completed.

If the self-certification form is not received by the 30th day, a termination notice will be issued to the tenant (with a copy to the owner), and the Housing Authority will issue a notice to permanently abate (stop) the rent beginning on the day repairs were due to be completed.

Once the signed self-certification that the repairs have been completed is received by the Housing Authority, the termination notice and the rent abatement (stop) will be withdrawn and the Housing Authority will resume paying effective as of the date the repairs were completed.

If the repairs are not completed within the 30-calendar-day deadline, the Housing Assistance Payment Contract will be terminated and no rent will be paid.  Exceptions may be granted for major or difficult repairs that require additional time provided a written request for an extension of time is submitted and approved by the Housing Authority.

Life Threatening Violations

If the unit fails the inspection for life threatening violations, such as non-working smoke detectors, the owner and tenant will be informed that repairs must be made within 24 hours. A recheck appointment will be scheduled.

If the unit fails the recheck inspection, the Housing Authority will issue a termination notice to the tenant (with a copy to the owner) and permanently abate (stop) the rent starting on the day the repairs were due o be completed.

back to top