Building owners and property managers who provide housing to HUD residents (Housing and Urban Development) are required to have inspections of those properties. HUD collaborates with owners, inspectors, agencies and more to complete REAC (Real Estate Assessment Center) inspections to ensure compliance with the condition of the property. With the help of a consultant, REAC inspections can feel more informed and positive when clients know what to expect. Though HUD is changing these protocols in 2023 with the adoption of its new NSPIRE program, here are some tips for how we advise our clients to pass current REACH inspections.
What is a REAC Inspection?
A REAC inspection looks at the entire property and its physical condition. The goal is to review safety, quality and sanitation for the residents. Inspections look at appliances, structural issues, indoor electrical and plumbing and more. A report is written after inspection which includes notes, photos, and details of what was found based on criteria laid out in the REAC compliance manual. Each property receives a score and must get a ‘passing score.’ If they do not pass inspection, they will be given a report detailing deficiencies that must be corrected prior to a second inspection scheduled soon after the initial one.
Why Do Properties Need a REAC Inspection?
REAC inspections matter because it tells the property owners what needs updating to maintain a certain standard of living for residents not only for their safety but for the overall safety of the building. Requirements are measured against a scoring system with a final score potentially impacting the building’s ability to participate in HUD programs and house residents safely. Areas of improvement are identified to help owners review health and safety guidelines and make sure it is being maintained properly.
How to Prepare for a REAC Inspection
Some key things to consider with REAC inspection preparation are whether or not clients need a consultant. Consultants like Inspection Group offer a range of services to help prepare for inspections. Our group can come alongside inspections to offer pre-REAC consulting to identify deficiencies and offer guidance and recommendations. Training is offered to clients so they can ask questions, understand the process, and seminars offered online and in person to achieve better outcomes. Both of these are great ways to receive help in the process from knowledgeable consultants ready to offer their support. In preparation for REAC inspections, it is recommended to work on the following:
- Know and review REAC guidelines. A guide is offered online that outlines what areas are covered and how each is scored. Take time to look this over and ask a consultant for help where needed
- Schedule pre-inspection with help of a consultant who identifies areas of concern and improvement before the official inspection happens. This also can help avoid a failing score if any deficiencies are caught early
- Prepare the property by getting showing it to be well-maintained and have repairs done to windows, faucets, bathrooms, or other areas of concern
- Gather important documents to have on hand including any records of property repairs, maintenance, permits, etc.
- Inform residents of the property about upcoming REAC inspections and how to respond so they are aware of what is happening and what they can do to be prepared
Once inspections are scheduled, a REAC inspector will arrive at the property to go through the process, take photos and document for the report. Being prepared can feel like a big task but The Inspection Group offers services to help make the process more efficient and help guide clients through to be more successful.
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