1. Living
Room
1.1 Living
Room Present
Note: If
the unit is an efficiency apartment, consider the living room
present.
1.2
Electricity
in the
baseboard, wall or floor of the room. Do not count a single
duplex
receptacle as two outlets, i.e., there must be two of these in
the room,
or one of these plus a permanently installed ceiling or
wall light
fixture.
Both the
outlets and/or the light must be working. Usually, a room will
have sufficient
lights or electrical appliances plugged into outlets to
determine
workability. Be sure light fixture does not fail just because
the bulb is
burned out.
Do not
count any of the following items or fixtures as outlets/fixtures:
Table or
floor lamps (these are not permanent light fixtures); ceiling
lamps
plugged into socket; extension cords.
If the
electric service to the unit has been temporarily turned off
check
‘’Inconclusive.’’ Contact owner or manager after inspection to
verify that
electricity functions properly when service is turned on.
Record this
information on the checklist.
1.3
Electrical Hazards
Examples of
what this means: broken wiring; noninsulated wiring;
frayed
wiring; improper types of wiring, connections or insulation;
wires lying
in or located near standing water or other unsafe places;
light
fixture hanging from electric wiring without other firm support or
fixture;
missing cover plates on switches or outlets; badly cracked
outlets;
exposed fuse box connections; overloaded circuits evidenced
by
frequently ‘’blown’’ fuses (ask the tenant).
Check
“Inconclusive’’ if you are uncertain about severity of the
problem and
seek expert advice.
1. 4
Security
“Accessible
to outside” means: doors open to the outside or to a
common
public hall; windows accessible from the outside (e.g.
basement
and first floor); windows or doors leading onto a fire
escape,
porch or other outside place that can be reached from the
ground.
“Lockable”
means: the window or door has a properly working lock,
or is
nailed shut, or the window is not designed to be opened. A storm
window lock
that is working properly is acceptable. Windows that are
nailed shut
are acceptable only if these windows are not needed for
ventilation
or as an alternate exit in case of fire.
1.5 Window
Condition
Rate the
windows in the room (including windows in doors).
“Severe
deterioration” means that the window no longer has the
capacity to
keep out the wind and the rain or is a cutting hazard.
Examples
are: missing or broken-out panes; dangerously loose
cracked
panes; windows that will not close; windows that, when
closed, do
not form a reasonably tight seal.
If more
than one window in the room is in this condition, give details
in the
space provided on the right of the form.
If there is
only “moderate deterioration” of the windows the item
should
"Pass." "Moderate deterioration” means windows which are
reasonably
weather-tight, but show evidence of some aging, abuse,
or lack of
repair. Signs of deterioration are: minor crack in window
pane;
splintered sill; signs of some minor rotting in the window frame
or the
window itself; window panes loose because of missing window
putty. Also
for deteriorated and peeling paint see 1.9. If more than
one window
is in this condition, give details in the space provided on
the right
of the form.
1.6 Ceiling
Condition
“Unsound or
hazardous” means the presence of such serious defects
that either
a potential exists for structural collapse or that large
cracks or
holes allow significant drafts to enter the unit. The condition
includes:
severe bulging or buckling; large holes; missing parts;
falling or
in danger of falling loose surface materials (other than
paper or
paint).
Pass
ceilings that are basically sound but have some nonhazardous
defects,
including: small holes or cracks; missing or broken ceiling
tiles;
water stains; soiled surfaces; unpainted surfaces; peeling paint
(for
peeling paint see item 1.9).
1.7 Wall
Condition
“Unsound or
hazardous” includes: serious defects such that the
structural
safety of the building is threatened, such as severe
buckling,
bulging or leaning; damaged or loose structural members;
large
holes; air infiltration.
Pass walls
that are basically sound but have some nonhazardous
defects,
including: small or shallow holes; cracks; loose or missing
parts;
unpainted surfaces; peeling paint (for peeling paint see item 1.9).
1.8 Floor
Condition
“Unsound or
hazardous” means the presence of such serious defects
that a
potential exists for structural collapse or other threats to
safety
(e.g., tripping) or large cracks or holes allow substantial drafts
from below
the floor. The condition includes: severe buckling or
major
movements under walking stress; damaged or missing parts.
Pass floors
that are basically sound but have some nonhazardous
defects, including:
heavily worn or damaged floor surface (for example,
scratches
or gouges in surface, missing portions of tile or
linoleum,
previous water damage). If there is a floor covering, also
note the
condition, especially if badly worn or soiled. If there is a floor
covering,
including paint or sealant, also note the conditions, specially
if badly
worn, soiled or peeling (for peeling paint, see 1.9).
1.9
Lead-Based Paint
Housing
Choice Voucher Units If the unit was built January 1,
1978, or
after, no child under age six will occupy or currently
occupies
it, is a 0-BR, elderly or handicapped unit with no children
under age
six on the lease or expected, has been certified leadbased
paint free
by a certified lead-based paint inspector (no
lead-based
paint present or no lead-based paint present after
removal of
lead-based paint.), check NA and do not inspect
painted
surfaces.
This
requirement applies to all painted surfaces (building components)
within the
unit. (Do not include tenant belongings).
Surfaces to
receive a visual assessment for deteriorated paint
include
walls, floors, ceilings, built in cabinets (sink bases),
baseboards,
doors, door frames, windows systems including
mullions,
sills, or frames and any other painted building component
within the
unit. Deteriorated paint includes any painted
surface
that is peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged or
otherwise
separated from the substrate.
All
deteriorated paint surfaces more than 2 sq. ft. in any one
interior
room or space, or more than 10% of the total surface
area of an
interior type of component with a small surface
area (i.e.,
window sills, baseboards, and trim) must be stabilized
(corrected)
in accordance with all safe work practice
requirements
and clearance is required. If the deteriorated
painted
surface is less than 2 sq. ft. or less than 10% of the
component,
only stabilization is required. Clearance testing
is not
required. Stabilization means removal of deteriorated
paint,
repair of the substrate, and application of a new protective
coating or
paint. Lead-Based Paint Owner Certification is
required
following stabilization activities, except for de minimis
level
repairs.
2. Kitchen
2.1 Kitchen
Area Present
Note: A
kitchen is an area used for preparation of meals. It may be
either a
separate room or an area of a larger room (for example, a
kitchen
area in an efficiency apartment).
2.2 - 2.9
Explanation for these items is the same as that provided
for “Living
Room’’ with the following modifications:
2.2
Electricity
Note: The
requirement is that at least one outlet and one
permanent
light fixture are present and working.
2.5 Window
Condition
Note: The
absence of a window does not fail this item in the
kitchen. If
there is no window, check “Pass.”
2.10 Stove
or Range with Oven
Both an
oven and a stove (or range) with top burners must be present
and
working. If either Is missing and you know that the owner is
responsible
for supplying these appliances, check “Fail.’’ Put check
in
‘’Inconclusive’’ column if the tenant is responsible for supplying the
appliances
and he or she has not yet moved in. Contact tenant or
prospective
tenant to gain verification that facility will be supplied and
is in
working condition. Hot plates are not acceptable substitutes for
these
facilities.
An oven is
not working if it will not heat up. To be working a stove or
range must
have all burners working and knobs to turn them off and
on. Under
“working condition,” also look for hazardous gas hook-ups
evidenced
by strong gas smells; these should fail. (Be sure that this
condition
is not confused with an unlit pilot light -a condition that
should be
noted, but does not fail.)
If both an
oven and a stove or range are present, but the gas or
electricity
are turned off, check “Inconclusive.” Contact owner or
manager to
get verification that facility works when gas is turned on.
If both an
oven and a stove or range are present and working, but
defects
exist, check "Pass" and note these to the right of the form.
Possible
defects are marked, dented, or scratched surfaces;
cracked burner
ring; limited size relative to family needs.
A microwave
oven may be substituted for a tenant-supplied oven and
stove (or
range).
A microwave
oven may be substituted for an owner-supplied oven
and stove
(or range) if the tenant agrees and microwave ovens are
furnished
instead of ovens and stoves (or ranges) to both subsidized
and
unsubsidized tenants in the building or premises.
2.11
Refrigerator
If no
refrigerator is present, use the same criteria for marking either
“Fail” or
“Inconclusive” as were used for the oven and stove or range.
A
refrigerator is not working if it will not maintain a temperature low
enough to
keep food from spoiling over a reasonable period of time.
If the
electricity is turned off, mark ‘’Inconclusive.’’ Contact owner (or
tenant if
unit is occupied) to get verification of working condition.
If the
refrigerator is present and working but defects exist, note these
to the
right of the form. Possible minor defects include: broken or
missing
interior shelving; dented or scratched interior or exterior
surfaces;
minor deterioration of door seal; loose door handle.
2.12 Sink
If a
permanently attached kitchen sink is not present in the kitchen or
kitchen
area, mark ‘’Fail.’’ A sink in a bathroom or a portable basin will
not satisfy
this requirement. A sink is not working unless it has
running hot
and cold water from the faucets and a properly connected
and
properly working drain (with a “gas trap”). In a vacant
apartment,
the hot water may have been turned off and there will be
no hot water.
Mark this “Inconclusive.” Check with owner or manager
to verify
that hot water is available when service is turned on.
If a
working sink has defects, note this to the right of the item.
Possible
minor defects include: dripping faucet; marked, dented, or
scratched
surface; slow drain; missing or broken drain stopper.
2.13 Space
for Storage, Preparation, and Serving of Food
Some space
must be available for the storage, preparation, and
serving of
food. If there is no built-in space for food storage and
preparation,
a table used for food preparation and a portable storage
cabinet
will satisfy the requirement. If there is no built-in space, and
no room for
a table and portable cabinet, check “Inconclusive” and
discuss
with the tenant. The tenant makes the final determination as
to whether
or not this space is acceptable.
If there
are some minor defects, check "Pass" and make notes to the
right.
Possible defects include: marked, dented, or scratched surfaces;
broken
shelving or cabinet doors; broken drawers or cabinet
hardware;
limited size relative to family needs.
3.
Bathroom
3.1
Bathroom Present
Most units
have easily identifiable bathrooms (i.e., a separate room
with
toilet, washbasin and tub or shower). In some cases, however,
you will
encounter units with scattered bathroom facilities (i.e., toilet.
washbasin
and tub or shower located in separate parts of the unit).
At a
minimum, there must be an enclosure around the toilet. In this
case, count
the enclosure around the toilet as the bathroom and
proceed with
3.2-3.9 below, with respect to this enclosure. If there is
more than
one bathroom that is normally used, rate the one that is in
best
condition for Part 3. If there is a second bathroom that is also
used,
complete Part 4 of the checklist for this room. (See Inspection
Manual for
additional notes on rating the second bathroom.)
3.2 - 3.9
Explanation for these items is the same as that provided
for “Living
Room’’ with the following modifications:
3.2
Electricity
Note: The
requirement is that at least one permanent light
fixture is
present and working
3.3
Electrical Hazards
Note: In
addition to the previously mentioned hazards, outlets
that are
located where water might splash or collect are
considered
an electrical hazard.
3.5 Window
Condition
Note: The
absence of a window does not fail this item in the
bathroom
(see item 3.13, Ventilation, for relevance of window
with
respect to ventilation). If there is no window, but a working
vent system
is present, check “Pass.”
3.7 Wall
Condition
Note:
Include under nonhazardous defects (that would
pass, but
should be noted) the following: broken or loose tile;
deteriorated
grouting at tub/wall and tub/floor joints, or tiled
surfaces;
water stains.
3.8 Floor
Condition
Note:
Include under nonhazardous defects (that would pass, but
should be
noted) the following: missing floor tiles; water stains.
3.10 Flush
Toilet in Enclosed Room in Unit
The toilet
must be contained within the unit, be in proper operating
condition,
and be available for the exclusive use of the occupants of
the unit
(i.e., outhouses or facilities shared by occupants of other
units are
not acceptable). It must allow for privacy.
Not working
means: the toilet is not connected to a water supply; it
is not
connected to a sewer drain; it is clogged; it does not have a trap;
the
connections, vents or traps are faulty to the extent that severe
leakage of
water or escape of gases occurs; the flushing mechanism
does not
function properly. If the water to the unit has been turned
off, check
"Inconclusive.’’ Obtain verification from owner or manager
that
facility works properly when water is turned on.
Comment to
the right of the form if the toilet is “present, exclusive,
and
working,” but has the following types of defects: constant
running;
chipped or broken porcelain; slow draining.
If drain
blockage is more serious and occurs further in the sewer line,
causing
backup, check item 7.6, “Fail,” under the plumbing and
heating
part of the checklist. A sign of serious sewer blockage is the
presence of
numerous backed-up drains.
3.11 Fixed
Wash Basin or Lavatory in Unit
The wash
basin must be permanently installed (i.e., a portable wash
basin does
not satisfy the requirement). Also, a kitchen sink used to
pass the
requirements under Part 2 of the checklist (kitchen facilities)
cannot also
serve as the bathroom wash basin. The wash basin may
be located
separate from the other bathroom facilities (e.g., in a
hallway).
Not working
means: the wash basin is not connected to a system that
will
deliver hot and cold running water; it is not connected to a
properly
operating drain; the connectors (or vents or traps) are faulty
to the
extent that severe leakage of water or escape of sewer gases
occurs. If
the water to the unit or the hot water unit has been turned
off, check
"Inconclusive." Obtain verification from owner or manager
that the
system is in working condition.
Comment to
the right of the form if the wash basin is “present and
working,”
but has the following types of minor defects: insufficient
water
pressure; dripping faucets; minor leaks; cracked or chipped
porcelain;
slow drain (see discussion above under 3.10).
3.12 Tub or
Shower in Unit
Not present
means that neither a tub nor shower is present in the unit.
Again,
these facilities need not be in the same room with the rest of
the
bathroom facilities. They must, however, be private.
Not working
covers the same requirements detailed above for wash
basin
(3.11).
Comment to
the right of the form if the tub or shower is present and
working,
but has the following types of defects: dripping faucet; minor
leaks;
cracked porcelain; slow drain (see discussion under 3.10);
absent or
broken support rod for shower curtain.
3.13
Ventilation
Working
vent systems include: ventilation shafts (non-mechanical
vents) and
electric fans. Electric vent fans must function when switch
is turned
on. (Make sure that any malfunctions are not due to the fan
not being
plugged in.) If electric current to the unit has not been
turned on
(and there is no openable window), check “Inconclusive.”
Obtain
verification from owner or manager that system works. Note:
exhaust
vents must be vented to the outside, attic, or crawlspace.
4. Other
Room Used for Living and Halls
Complete an
“Other Room” checklist for as many “other rooms
used for
living” as are present in the unit and not already noted in
Parts l, 2,
and 3 of the checklist. See the discussion below for
definition
of ‘’used for living.’’ Also complete an ‘’Other Room”
checklist
for all entrance halls, corridors, and staircases that are
located
within the unit and are part of the area used for living. If a
hall, entry
and/or stairway are contiguous, rate them as a whole
(i.e., as
part of one space).
Additional
forms for rating “Other Rooms” are provided in the checklist.
Definition
of “used for living." Rooms "used for living” are areas of the
unit that
are walked through or lived in on a regular basis. Do not
include
rooms or other areas that have been permanently, or near
permanently,
closed off or areas that are infrequently entered. For
example, do
not include a utility room, attached shed, attached
cIosed-in
porch, basement, or garage if they are closed off from the
main living
area or are infrequently entered. Do include any of these
areas if
they are frequently used (e.g., a finished basement/playroom,
a closed-in
porch that is used as a bedroom during summer
months).
Occasional use of a washer or dryer in an otherwise unused
room does
not constitute regular use.
If the unit
is vacant and you do not know the eventual use of a
particular
room, complete an ‘’Other Room’’ checklist if there is any
chance that
the room will be used on a regular basis. If there is no
chance that
the room will be used on a regular basis, do not include
it (e.g.,
an unfinished basement) since it will be checked under Part
5, All
Secondary Rooms (Rooms not used for living).
4.1 Room
Code and Room Location
Enter the
appropriate room code given below:
Room Codes:
1 = Bedroom
or any other room used for sleeping (regardless of type
of room)
2 = Dining
Room or Dining Area
3 = Second
Living Room, Family Room, Den, Playroom, TV Room
4 =
Entrance Halls, Corridors, Halls, Staircases
5 =
Additional Bathroom (also check presence of sink trap and
clogged
toilet)
6 = Other
Room
Location: Write on the line provided the location of the room
with respect
to the unit’s width, length and floor level as if you were
standing
outside the unit facing the entrance to the unit:
right/left/center:
record whether the room is situated to the right, left,
or center
of the unit.
front/rear/center:
record whether the room is situated to the back,
front or
center of the unit.
floor
level: identify the floor level on which the room is located.
If the unit
is vacant, you may have some difficulty predicting the
eventual
use of a room. Before giving any room a code of 1
(bedroom),
the room must meet all of the requirements for a ‘’room
used for
sleeping’’ (see items 4. 2 and 4.5).
4.2 - 4.9
Explanations of these items are the same as those
provided
for ‘’Living Room’’ with the following modifications:
4.2
Electricity/Illumination
If the room
code is not a "1," the room must have a means of
natural or
artificial illumination such as a permanent light
fixture,
wall outlet present, or light from a window in the room
or near the
room. If any required item is missing, check “Fail."
If the
electricity is turned off, check “Inconclusive."
4.5 Window
Condition
Any room
used for sleeping must have at least one window. If
the windows
in sleeping rooms are designed to be opened, at
least one
window must be openable. The minimum standards
do not
require a window in “other rooms.” Therefore, if there
is no
window in another room not used for sleeping, check
“Pass,” and
note “no window” in the area for comments.
4.6 Smoke
Detectors
At least
one battery-operated or hard-wired smoke detector
must be
present and working on each level of the unit, including
the
basement, but not the crawl spaces and unfinished
attic.
Smoke
detectors must be installed in accordance with and
meet the
requirements of the National Fire Protection Association
Standard
(NFPA) 74 (or its successor standards).
If the
dwelling unit is occupied by any hearing-impaired person,
smoke
detectors must have an alarm system designed for
hearing-impaired
persons as specified in NFPA 74 (or successor
standards).
If the unit
was under HAP contract prior to April 24, 1993,
owners who
installed battery-operated or hard-wired smoke
detectors
in compliance with HUD’s smoke detector requirements,
including
the regulations published on July 30, 1992
(57 FR
33846), will not be required subsequently to comply
with any
additional requirements mandated by NFPA 74 (i.e.
the owner
would not be required to install a smoke detector in
a basement
not used for living purposes, nor would the owner
be required
to change the location of the smoke detectors that
have
already been installed on the other floors of the unit). In
this case,
check “Pass” and note under comments.
Additional
Notes
For
staircases, the adequacy of light and condition of the stair rails
and
railings is covered under Part 8 of the checklist (General Health
and Safety)
5. All
Secondary Rooms (Rooms not used for living)
5.
Secondary Rooms (Rooms not used for living)
If any room
in the unit did not meet the requirements for “other room
used for
living" in Part 4, it is to be considered a “secondary room (not
used for
living),” Rate all of these rooms together (i.e., a single Part
5 checklist
for all secondary rooms in the unit).
Inspection
is required of the following two items since hazardous
defects
under these items could jeopardize the rest of the unit, even
if present
in rooms not used for living: 5.2 Security, 5.3 Electrical
Hazards.
Also, be observant of any other potentially hazardous
features in
these rooms and record under 5.4
5.1 None
If there
are no “Secondary Rooms (rooms not used for living),” check
"None"
and go on to Part 6.
5.2 - 5.4
Explanations of these items is the same as those
provided
for ‘’Living Room’’
Additional
Note
In
recording “other potentially hazardous features,” note (in the
space
provided) the means of access to the room with the hazard and
check the
box under ‘’Inconclusive.” Discuss the hazard with the HA
inspection
supervisor to determine ‘’Pass’’ or ‘’Fail.’’ Include defects
like: large
holes in floor, walls or ceilings; evidence of structural
collapse;
windows in condition of severe deterioration; and deteriorated
paint
surfaces.
6.
Building Exterior
6.1
Condition of Foundation
‘’Unsound
or hazardous’’ means foundations with severe structural
defects
indicating the potential for structural collapse; or foundations
that allow
significant entry of ground water (for example, evidenced
by flooding
of basement).
6.2
Condition of Stairs, Rails, and Porches
"Unsound
or hazardous" means: stairs, porches, balconies, or
decks with
severe structural defects; broken, rotting, or missing
steps;
absence of a handrail when there are extended lengths of
steps
(generally four or more consecutive steps); absence of or
insecure
railings around a porch or balcony which is approximately
30 inches
or more above the ground.
6.3
Condition of Roof and Gutters
“Unsound
and hazardous” means: The roof has serious defects such
as serious
buckling or sagging, indicating the potential of structural
collapse;
large holes or other defects that would result in significant
air or water
infiltration (in most cases severe exterior defects will be
reflected
in equally serious surface defects within the unit, e.g.,
buckling,
water damage). The gutters, downspouts and soffits (area
under the
eaves) show serious decay and have allowed the entry of
significant
air or water into the interior of the structure. Gutters and
downspouts
are, however, not required to pass. If the roof is not
observable
and there is no sign of interior water damage, check
“Pass.”
6.4
Condition of Exterior Surfaces
See
definition above for roof, item 6.3.
6.5
Condition of Chimney
The chimney
should not be seriously leaning or showing evidence of
significant
disintegration (i.e., many missing bricks).
6.6
Lead-Based Paint: Exterior Surfaces
Housing
Choice Voucher Units If the unit was built January 1,
1978 or
after, no child under age six will occupy or currently
occupies,
is a 0-BR, elderly or handicapped unit with no children
under age
six on the lease or expected, has been certified leadbased
paint free
by a certified lead-based paint inspector (no
lead-based
paint present or no lead-based paint present after
removal of
lead), check NA and do not inspect painted surfaces .
Visual
assessment for deteriorated paint applies to all exterior
painted
surfaces (building components) associated with the
assisted
unit including windows, window sills, exterior walls,
floors,
porches, railings, doors, decks, stairs, play areas, garages,
fences or
other areas if frequented by children under age six.
All
deteriorated paint surfaces more than 20 sq. ft. on exterior
surfaces must be
stabilized (corrected) in accordance with all
safe work
practice requirements. If the painted surface is less
than 20 sq.
ft., only stabilization is required. Clearance
testing is
not required. Stabilization means removal of deteriorated
paint,
repair of the substrate, and application of a new
protective
coating or paint. Lead-Based Paint Owner Certification
is required
following stabilization activities except for de
minimis
level repairs.
6.7
Manufactured Homes: Tie Downs
Manufactured
homes must be placed on a site in a stable manner
and be free
from hazards such as sliding and wind damage. Manufactured
homes must
be securely anchored by a tiedown device
which
distributes and transfers the loads imposed by the unit to
appropriate
ground anchors so as to resist wind overturning and
sliding,
unless a variation has been approved by the HUD Field
Office.
7.3
Ventilation and Adequacy of Cooling
If the
tenant is present and has occupied the unit during the summer
months,
inquire about the adequacy of air flow. If the tenant is not
present or
has not occupied the unit during the summer months, test
a sample of
windows to see that they open (see Inspection Manual
for
instruction).
“Working
cooling equipment’’ includes: central (fan) ventilation system;
evaporative
cooling system; room or central air conditioning.
Check
“Inconclusive” if there are no openable windows and it is
impossible,
or inappropriate, to test whether a cooling system works.
Check with
other tenants in the building (in a muIti-unit structure) and
with the
owner or manager for verification of the adequacy of
ventilation
and cooling.
7.4 Water
Heater
"Location
presents hazard’’ means that the gas or oil water heater is
located in
living areas or closets where safety hazards may exist
(e.g.,
water heater located in very cluttered closet with cloth and
paper items
stacked against it). Gas water heaters in bedrooms or
other
living areas must have safety dividers or shields.
Water
heaters must have a temperature-pressure relief valve and
discharge
line (directed toward the floor or outside of the living area)
as a
safeguard against build up of steam if the water heater
malfunctions.
If not, they are not properly equipped and shall fail.
To pass,
gas or oil fired water heaters must be vented into a properly
installed
chimney or flue leading outside. Electric water heaters do
not require
venting.
If it is
impossible to view the water heater, check “Inconclusive.”
Obtain
verification of safety of system from owner or manager.
Check
"Pass" if the water heater has passed a local inspection. This
applies
primarily to hot water that is supplied by a large scale
complex
water heating system that serves multiple units (e.g., water
heating
system in large apartment building). Check in the same
manner
described for heating system safety, item 7.2, above.
7.5 Water
Supply
If the
structure is connected to a city or town water system, check
‘’Pass.” If
the structure has a private water supply (usually in rural
areas)
inquire into the nature of the supply (probably from the owner)
and whether
it is approvable by an appropriate public agency.
General
note: If items 7.5, 7.6, or 7,7 are checked “Inconclusive,”
check with
owner or manager for verification of adequacy.
7.6 Plumbing
“Major
leaks” means that main water drain and feed pipes (often
located in
the basement) are seriously leaking. (Leaks present at
specific
facilities have already been evaluated under the checklist
items for
“Bathroom” and “Kitchen.”)
“Corrosion”
(causing serious and persistent levels of rust or contamination
in the
drinking water) can be determined by observing the
color of
the drinking water at several taps. Badly corroded pipes will
produce
noticeably brownish water. If the tenant is currently occupying
the unit,
he or she should be able to provide information about the
persistence
of this condition. (Make sure that the “rusty water” is not
a temporary
condition caused by city or town maintenance of main
water
lines.) See general note under 7.5.
7.7 Sewer
Connection
If the
structure is connected to the city or town sewer system, check
“Pass.” If
the structure has its own private disposal system (e.g.,
septic
field), inquire into the nature of the system and determine
whether
this type of system can meet appropriate health and safety
regulations.
The
following conditions constitute “evidence of sewer back up”:
strong
sewer gas smell in the basement or outside of unit; numerous
clogged or
very slow drains; marshy areas outside of unit above
septic
field. See general note under 7.5.
7. Heating
and Plumbing
7.1
Adequacy of Heating Equipment
“Adequate
heat” means that the heating system is capable of
delivering
enough heat to assure a healthy environment in the unit
(appropriate
to the climate). The HA is responsible for defining
what
constitutes a healthy living environment in the area of the
country in
which it operates. Local codes (city or state codes)
should be
instructive in arriving at a reasonable local definition.
For
example, for heat adequacy, local codes often require that the
unit’s
heating facility be capable of maintaining a given temperature
level
during a designated time period. Portable electric room
heaters or
kitchen stoves or ranges with a built-in heat unit are not
acceptable
as a primary source of heat for units located in areas
where
climate conditions require regular heating.
“Directly
or indirectly to all rooms used for living” means:
“directly”
means that each room used for living has a heat
source
(e.g., working radiator; working hot air register;
baseboard
heat)
‘’indirectly’’
means that, if there is no heat source present in
the room,
heat can enter the room easily from a heated
adjacent
room (e.g a dining room may not have a radiator,
but would
receive heat from the heated living room through
a large
open archway).
If the
heating system in the unit works, but there is some question
whether a
room without a heat source would receive adequate
indirect
heat, check “Inconclusive” and verify adequacy from
tenant or
owner (e.g., unheated bedroom at the end of a long
hallway).
How to
determine the capability of the heating system: If the unit
is
occupied, usually the quickest way to determine the capability
of the
heating system over time is to question the tenant. If the unit
is not
occupied, or the tenant has not lived in the unit during the
months when
heat would be needed, check “Inclusive.” It will be
necessary
to question the owner on this point after the inspection
has been
completed and, if possible, to question other tenants (if
it is a
muIti-unit structure) about the adequacy of heat provided.
Under some
circumstances, the adequacy of heat can be determined
by a simple
comparison of the size of the heating system to
the area to
be heated. For example, a small permanently installed
space
heater in a living room is probably inadequate for heating
anything
larger than a relatively small apartment.
7.2 Safety
of Heating Equipment
Examples of
“unvented fuel burning space heaters” are: portable
kerosene
units; unvented open flame portable units.
‘’Other
unsafe conditions’’ include: breakage or damage to heating
system such
that there is a potential for fire or other threats to
safety;
improper connection of flues allowing exhaust gases to
enter the
living area; improper installation of equipment (e.g.,
proximity
of fuel tank to heat source, absence of safety devices);
indications
of improper use of equipment (e.g., evidence of heavy
build-up of
soot, creosote, or other substance in the chimney);
disintegrating
equipment; combustible materials near heat source
or flue.
SeeInspection Manual for a more detailed discussion of the
inspection
of safety aspects of the heating systems.
If you are
unable to gain access to the primary heating system in
the unit
check ‘’Inconclusive." Contact the owner or manager for
verification
of safety of the system. If the system has passed a
recent
local inspection, check ‘’Pass.” This applies especially to
units in
which heat is provided by a large scale, complex central
heating
system that serves multiple units (e.g., a boiler in the
basement of
a large apartment building). In most cases, a large
scale
heating system for a multi-unit building will be subject to
periodic
safety inspections by a local public agency. Check with
the owner
or manager to determine the date and outcome of the
last such
inspection, or look for an inspection certificate posted on
the heating
system.
8. General
Health and Safety
8.1 Access
to Unit
“Through
another unit” means that access to the unit Is only possible
by means of
passage through another dwelling unit.
8.2 Exits
“Acceptable
fire exit” means that the building must have an alternative
means of
exit that meets local or State regulations in case of fire;
this could
include:
An openable
window if the unit is on the first floor or second floor
or easily
accessible to the ground.
A back door
opening on to a porch with a stairway leading to the
ground.
Fire
escape, fire ladder, or fire stairs.
“Blocked”
means that the exit is not useable due to conditions such
as debris,
storage, door or window nailed shut, broken lock.
Important
note: The HA has the final responsibility for deciding
whether the
type of emergency exit Is acceptable, although the
tenant
should assist in making the decision.
8.3
Evidence of Infestation
“Presence
of rats, or severe infestation by mice or vermin” (such as
roaches) is
evidenced by: rat holes; droppings; rat runs; numerous
settings of
rat poison. If the unit is occupied, ask the tenant,
8.4 Garbage
and Debris
“Heavy
accumulation” means large piles of trash and garbage,
discarded
furniture, and other debris (not temporarily stored awaiting
removal)
that might harbor rodents, This may occur inside the unit,
in common
areas, or outside. It usually means a level of accumulation
beyond the
capacity of an individual to pick up within an hour or
two.
8.5 Refuse
Disposal
“Adequate
covered facilities" includes: trash cans with covers, garbage
chutes,
“dumpsters” (i.e., large scale refuse boxes with lids);
trash bags
(if approvable by local public agency). “ApprovabIe by
local
public agency” means that the local Health and Sanitation
Department
(city, town or county) approves the type of facility in use.
Note:
During the period when the HA is setting up its inspection
program, it
will check with the local health and sanitation department to
determine
which types of facilities are acceptable and include this in the
inspection
requirements.
If the unit
is vacant and there are no adequate covered facilities
present,
check “Inconclusive.” Contact the owner or manager for
verification
of facilities provided when the unit is occupied.
8.6
Interior Stairs and Common Halls
‘’Loose,
broken, or missing steps’’ should fail if they present a serious
risk of
tripping or falling.
A handrail
is required on extended sections of stairs (generally four
or more
consecutive steps). A railing is required on unprotected
heights
such as around stairwells.
“Other
hazards” would be conditions such as bare electrical wires
and
tripping hazards.
Housing
Choice Voucher Units If the unit was built January 1,
1978, or
after, no child under six will occupy or currently occupies
it, is a
0-BR, elderly or handicapped unit with no children under
six on the
lease or expected, has been certified lead-based paint
free by a
certified lead-based paint inspector (no lead-based paint
present or
no lead-based paint present after removal of leadbased
paint.),
check NA and do not inspect painted surfaces.
This
requirement applies to all painted surfaces (building components)
within the
unit. (Do not include tenant belongings).
Surfaces to
receive a visual assessment for deteriorated paint
include
walls, floors, ceilings, built in cabinets (sink bases),
baseboards,
doors, door frames, windows systems including
mullions,
sills, or frames and any other painted building component
within the
unit. Deteriorated paint includes any painted
surface
that is peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged or
otherwise
separated from the substrate.
All
deteriorated paint surfaces more than 2 sq. ft. in any one
interior
room or space, or more than 10% of the total surface
area of an
interior type of component with a small surface
area (i.e.,
window sills, baseboards, and trim) must be stabilized
(corrected)
in accordance with all safe work practice
requirements
and clearance is required. If the deteriorated
painted
surface is less than 2 sq. ft. or less than 10% of the
component,
only stabilization is required. Clearance testing
is not
required. Stabilization means removal of deteriorated
paint,
repair of the substrate, and application of a new protective
coating or
paint. Lead-Based Paint Owner Certification is
required
following stabilization activities, except for de minimis
level
repairs.
8.7 Other
Interior Hazards
Examples of
other hazards might be: a broken bathroom fixture with
a sharp
edge in a location where it represents a hazard; a protruding
nail in a
doorway.
8.8
Elevators
Note: At
the time the HA is setting up its inspection program, it will
determine
local licensing practices for elevators. lnspectors should
then be
aware of these practices in evaluating this item (e.g., check
inspection
date). If no elevator check “Not Applicable.”
8.9
Interior Air Quality
If the
inspector has any questions about whether an existing poor air
quality
condition should be considered dangerous, he or she should
check with
the local Health and Safety Department (city, town or
county).
8.10 Site
and Neighborhood Conditions
Examples of
conditions that would “seriously and continuously
endanger
the health or safety of the residents” are:
other
buildings on, or near the property, that pose serious
hazards
(e.g., dilapidated shed or garage with potential for
structural
collapse),
evidence of
flooding or major drainage problems,
evidence of
mud slides or large land settlement or collapse,
proximity
to open sewage,
unprotected
heights (cliffs, quarries, mines, sandpits),
fire
hazards,
abnormal
air pollution or smoke which continues throughout
the year
and is determined to seriously endanger health, and
continuous
or excessive vibration of vehicular traffic (if the unit
is
occupied, ask the tenant).
8.11
Lead-Based Paint: Owner Certification
If the
owner is required to correct any lead-based paint hazards at
the
property including deteriorated paint or other hazards identified
by a visual
assessor, a certified lead-based paint risk assessor,
or
certified lead-based paint inspector, the PHA must obtain
certification
that the work has been done in accordance with all
applicable
requirements of 24 CFR Part 35. The Lead-Based
Paint Owner
Certification must be received by the PHA before the
execution
of the HAP contract or within the time period stated by
the PHA in
the owner HQS violation notice. Receipt of the
completed
and signed Lead-Based Paint Owner Certification
signifies
that all HQS lead-based paint requirements have been
met and no
re-inspection by the HQS inspector is required.