In order to participate in the Housing Assistance Payment Program, units must be safe, clean and free of conditions that might harm the occupants. The entire building and common areas are included in our inspection. This guide is to be used to help you decide if the house or apartment you own or manage is likely to meet program requirements, but it is not exhaustive.

1. Exterior doors and windows must be lockable, weathertight and working.
2. Windows and doors that open for ventilation shall have appropriate screens.
3. Outside and inside walls, floors and ceiling must be free from leaning, bulking and sagging appearances, free of cracks, holes, loose siding, and should have a clean appearance.
4. Stairways (inside or out), walkways and porches must be free of loose or decayed boards and decking, with sound banisters or handrails for all stairways consisting of four or more steps (landing counts as step).
5. In addition to the main entrance, there must be an alternative way to get out in case of fire or other emergency. There must be at least one working smoke detector or fire alarm on each level of the unit.
6. Water and sewer systems must meet public health department approval. If the tenant is to pay for water, she/he must have an individual meter; splitting of a water bill with another residence is not permitted.
7. The site must not show evidence of flooding, poor drainage, sewage hazard, trash or inoperable automobiles. The entire building must pass inspection on the outside.
8. Roof and fascia must be in good repair and free of any leaks or damages. All wood surfaces must be painted or stained. No pealing paint inside or out.
9. The entire electrical system must be free of hazards.
10. Each unit must have adequate heating facilities. No unvented gas heaters are permitted.
11. Gas water heaters must be vented and all water heaters shall have a pop-off valve.
12. The living, sleeping and kitchen areas should have at least two (2) electrical outlets that work or one electrical outlet and one overhead light. All overhead lights must be shielded or the lightbulbs must be Teflon-coated.
13. Each room used as a bedroom (other than in efficiencies) should have a window, closet and door closing it off from the rest of the living area.
14. Each bathroom must have a working toilet, lavatory, shower or tub, ceiling or wall-type light fixture, window that opens or an exhaust fan, toilet tissue holder and towel rack.
15. The kitchen area must have a stove and refrigerator (or provisions for one if tenant is to supply their own), sink with proper plumbing, and adequate cabinet and shelf space for food storage and preparation. If there is a dishwasher or disposal in the unit, it must work or be removed and the void covered.
16. ALL NEW MOVE-IN INSPECTIONS REQUIRE ALL UTILITIES BE ON BEFORE THE INSPECTION