The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will substantially increase multifamily housing inspections beginning June 1.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, HUD suspended most in-person housing inspections last year and provided waivers that enabled multifamily housing owners and public housing authorities to reduce activities that could contribute to COVID-19 transmission.
Thirteen months later, the agency is set to ramp up inspections by its Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC). REAC will conduct its reviews using protocols informed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance.
For the Housing Choice Voucher program, HUD will extend current alternative requirements around housing quality standards inspections for properties and units under the program that balance helping households obtain housing quickly while ensuring that units meet quality standards, according to the letter.
“The last year has shown just how important housing is to our health and safety,” said Fudge. “More than a year since the pandemic began and with every person over the age of 16 now being eligible for a free COVID-19 vaccination, we must take steps to ensure the whole health and well-being of the households we serve—including the conditions and quality of housing. We look forward to working with residents to ensure safe and successful inspections.”
