Landlords participating in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program must ensure their properties meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are designed to guarantee that rental housing is safe, clean, and functional.
Here’s what landlords need to know to pass their next inspection.
What is the Section 8 inspection?
A Section 8 inspection is conducted by the local Public Housing Authority (PHA) to verify that rental units meet federal safety and quality standards. Inspections happen before a tenant moves in and are repeated annually.
Units must pass this inspection in order for landlords to receive housing assistance payments.
Key areas of the HQS inspection checklist
The HQS inspection evaluates specific parts of the unit. Here are the main categories:
- Living room: Must be present with working light fixtures and at least two electrical outlets.
- Kitchen: Must include a sink with hot/cold water, a stove or range, and a refrigerator.
- Bathroom: Must have a flush toilet, fixed wash basin, and a tub or shower—all in a private room.
- Bedrooms: Each must have a window and be able to accommodate a bed. There must be a way to exit in case of emergency.
- Heating and plumbing: Systems must work properly and safely. Hot and cold water must be available.
- Windows and doors: Must be lockable and free of cracks or damage.
- Building exterior: Roof, walls, and foundation must be weather-tight and structurally sound.
- General safety: Smoke detectors must work, and there must be no exposed wiring, lead paint hazards, or trip risks.
Common reasons for Section 8 inspection failure
Some of the most frequent reasons properties fail inspections include:
- Non-working or missing smoke detectors
- Peeling or chipping paint (especially in pre-1978 homes)
- Leaky plumbing or lack of hot water
- Broken or unsecured windows and doors
- Missing outlet covers or exposed wires
- Pest infestations or excessive clutter
Tips to pass your inspection the first time
Landlords can take proactive steps to ensure they pass their Section 8 inspection:
- Do a pre-inspection using HUD’s checklist before the official appointment.
- Make necessary repairs ahead of time.
- Ensure all utilities are active during the inspection.
- Provide full access to all areas of the property, including basements and utility rooms.
- Keep the unit clean, which helps reveal any issues and makes a good impression on the inspector.
Downloadable resources for landlords
Landlords can use these official resources to prepare:
- HUD HQS Inspection Checklist (PDF)
- NYCHA Section 8 Inspection Guide
- Rochester Housing Authority HQS Information
What happens next
If your unit passes, it’s cleared for occupancy and you’ll begin receiving housing assistance payments. If it fails, the PHA will typically allow a correction window—usually 30 days—for repairs before a re-inspection…