If you’re a property manager or landlord wondering what Section 8 inspectors look for, this guide breaks down the inspection process and how to pass it. HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS) directs these inspections, ensuring rental units receiving housing assistance are safe, clean, and habitable.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what inspectors evaluate—from safety and structural soundness to kitchen functionality and pest control—plus how to prepare your units for inspection with confidence.
What Do Section 8 Inspectors Look For Based on HQS?
Section 8 inspections are based on Housing Quality Standards (HQS) established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These standards are used across the country to assess whether subsidized rental units meet basic health and safety requirements.
Typically, public housing authority representatives or third-party contractors conduct these inspections. Their role is to determine whether the property meets HUD’s minimum livability standards. The landlord must then correct any deficiency before the unit can be rented or payments can resume.
👉 Learn more about HQS from HUD.gov
Section 8 Inspection Checklist: Safety and Security Items
During your inspection, one of the first things Section 8 inspectors look for is basic safety and security. These are critical to tenant well-being and are among the most common reasons units fail initial inspection.
Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Must be installed on every level and tested for function
- CO detectors required in areas with gas appliances
Electrical Hazards and Exposed Wiring
- No exposed wires, open panels, or missing outlet covers
- Outlets must be properly grounded and secured
Windows, Doors, and Secure Locks
- All windows should open and lock properly
- Exterior doors must close securely and have functioning deadbolts
Fire Exits and Stair Access
- Units must have a clear, safe exit path
- Stairs must have handrails where required
Lead-Based Paint Compliance
- If property was built before 1978, deteriorated paint must be addressed
- Especially critical in units with children under 6
For a comprehensive property prep checklist, download our FREE NSPIRE Guide
What Section 8 Inspectors Look for in Structure and Utilities
Your property’s structure and core utilities play a major role in inspections. Here’s what Section 8 inspectors look for in these areas:
Floors, Walls, and Ceilings
- No holes, sagging, or water damage
- Surfaces must be free of major cracks or peeling paint
Plumbing and Water Pressure
- Working hot and cold water in kitchen and bathroom
- No leaking faucets or clogged drains
Water Heater and HVAC Standards
- Units must have heat in cold months
- Water heater must have a discharge line and be safely installed
Mold, Leaks, and Ventilation
- Any sign of mold or musty smell will likely result in failure
- Proper ventilation required in bathrooms and kitchens
Check out how we handle Maintenance Work Order Management to prevent these common inspection failures.
What Do Section 8 Inspectors Look for in Kitchens and Bathrooms?
Kitchens and bathrooms are critical inspection points. Functional appliances, plumbing, and cleanliness are non-negotiables.
Required Appliances and Fixtures
- Kitchen must have a working stove, refrigerator, and sink
- Bathroom must include a flush toilet, sink, and tub/shower
Flooring and Surface Conditions
- Bathroom and kitchen floors must be waterproof and easy to clean
Sanitation and Water Access
- Hot and cold running water is required in all sinks
- No leaks or backup in drains
Here’s a helpful guide from HUD.loans with more on kitchen and bathroom inspection standards.
Common Issues Found During Section 8 Inspections
Understanding what Section 8 inspectors look for also means knowing where most properties fail. Here are the most frequent culprits:
- Pest infestations (roaches, rats, bedbugs)
- Missing smoke detectors or CO alarms
- Water damage, mold, or peeling paint
- Loose stair handrails or missing fire exits
- Non-functional appliances or plumbing leaks
- Broken windows or inadequate door locks
Check out our Apartment Turnovers services to resolve these issues before your next inspection.
See how other housing agencies handle inspections with AHACV’s Section 8 inspection info
How to Prepare for a Section 8 Inspection
If you want to pass the first time, prepare your units with a full understanding of what Section 8 inspectors look for. Here’s a simple checklist:
✅ Test all smoke and CO detectors
✅ Fix leaks, soft floors, or damaged walls
✅ Clean up all trash and clutter
✅ Ensure all appliances are functional
✅ Confirm proper water pressure in sinks and tubs
✅ Check for pests and signs of infestation
Need a professional walkthrough? Book an NSPIRE Consultation today and let our experts prepare your unit for inspection success.
What Happens If You Fail a Section 8 Inspection?
If your property fails, HUD or the local housing authority will provide a written list of deficiencies. You typically have 24 hours to fix life-threatening issues and up to 30 days for all others.
During this time, payments may be withheld, and you cannot lease the unit until it passes reinspection.
That’s why proactive planning and documentation are critical. Our CapEx Project Management team helps landlords quickly resolve costly issues while staying compliant.
Learn more about tenant-facing concerns in this Stessa Section 8 inspection guide
Get Expert Help to Pass Your Section 8 Inspection
At NSPIRE Experts, we specialize in helping landlords and property managers pass Section 8 and HUD inspections the first time. Our nationwide team is equipped to:
- Conduct pre-inspections using HQS and NSPIRE standards
- Handle fast repairs with full documentation
- Provide ongoing support to maintain compliance
If you want to stop worrying about failed inspections and lost rental income, we’re here to help.