Does NSPIRE require vacant unit inspections? The introduction of NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) has brought many changes to HUD’s inspection protocols, leaving property managers wondering how these changes will impact the inspection of vacant units. One pressing question remains: Will vacant units be included during REAC inspections under NSPIRE standards?
While guidance from HUD has addressed some aspects, it has left room for interpretation. A brief mention in PIH 2023-16/H 2023-07 from June 30, 2023, states, “The NSPIRE application will prioritize currently occupied units for inspection and may include vacant units.” This vague language suggests that HUD inspections might—or might not—include vacant units under the new system.
Understanding NSPIRE’s Approach to Vacant Units
Under the previous UPCS protocol, HUD typically excluded vacant units from inspections for Public Housing Properties and only inspected vacant units at Multifamily Properties if occupancy fell below 85%. However, under NSPIRE, the rules appear less defined. Some property managers have already reported instances where vacant units were inspected during NSPIRE-based REAC inspections, even when occupancy rates exceeded 85%.
HUD has positioned NSPIRE as a system designed to provide a more accurate assessment of property conditions, but the inclusion of vacant units raises questions about how this aligns with that goal. Regardless of the reasoning, property managers must prepare for the possibility of vacant unit inspections to ensure compliance and avoid scoring penalties.
Tips for Preparing Vacant Units for Inspection
If your property is scheduled for a REAC inspection under NSPIRE, it’s crucial to ensure that vacant units are inspection-ready. Here are actionable steps to prepare:
1. Address Life-Threatening Defects
Vacant units must be free of life-threatening defects, as these can significantly impact your REAC score. Inspect each unit thoroughly for common issues, such as:
- Missing outlet or switch covers.
- Exposed wires.
- Fire extinguisher or sprinkler deficiencies.
- Improperly vented dryers, fuel-burning water heaters, or HVAC systems.
- Tied-up call-for-aid strings in accessible units.
2. Ensure “Make Ready” Standards Are Met
Vacant units should meet the same standards as occupied ones. Clean, repair, and maintain units as though they were ready for immediate occupancy. This not only avoids scoring penalties but also demonstrates overall property condition and management.
3. Keep Documentation on Hand
Maintain records of your preparation efforts, including maintenance logs, repair tickets, and inspection checklists. If a vacant unit is selected for inspection, being able to show your proactive measures can work in your favor.
4. Perform Internal Pre-Inspections
Before the official REAC inspection, conduct internal inspections of vacant units. Look for defects, test systems (e.g., smoke detectors, HVAC, and plumbing), and address minor issues to avoid surprises during the inspection.
5. Train Staff to Respond to NSPIRE Protocols
Ensure your staff understands NSPIRE’s new standards and the importance of inspecting vacant units with the same diligence as occupied ones. Proper training helps create a culture of preparedness and minimizes risks during official vacant unit inspections.
What to Expect During Your NSPIRE Inspection
Since the inclusion of vacant units under NSPIRE seems to vary by case, property managers should anticipate flexibility in the inspection process. HUD inspectors may choose to sample vacant units to gain a broader understanding of the property’s condition. In such cases, the same scoring criteria applied to occupied units will likely apply to vacant ones.
While this can feel like an added challenge, being proactive about vacant unit preparation ultimately strengthens the overall condition and compliance of your property.
Partnering for Success
Navigating the evolving standards of NSPIRE inspections can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Inspection Group, we specialize in helping property managers prepare for REAC property inspections. Our expert team is here to guide you through the changes under NSPIRE and ensure your property is inspection-ready—vacant units included.
