Why Inspection Preparation Matters
Every failed HQS inspection costs you at minimum 30 days of rent. If your expected rent is $1,500/month, one failure costs $1,500 — plus repair costs. Our students who use the pre-inspection checklist pass at a 94% first-try rate versus the industry average of ~60%.
The Big Five Failure Points
1. Smoke Detectors (40% of failures)
- Working detector on every level of the home
- Detector within 15 feet of every sleeping area
- Batteries must be functional (test every one)
- Units over 10 years old should be replaced entirely
2. Electrical Systems (25% of failures)
- All outlets must be properly grounded (3-prong or GFCI)
- GFCI required in kitchens, bathrooms, and near water sources
- No exposed wiring or open junction boxes
- All light fixtures must be functional with working bulbs
3. Water Heater (15% of failures)
- Temperature/Pressure (T&P) relief valve must be present and functioning
- Discharge pipe must extend to within 6 inches of the floor or outside
- No signs of corrosion or leaking
- Proper ventilation for gas water heaters
4. Windows (10% of failures)
- All windows must open, close, and lock properly
- Screens intact on operable windows
- No broken or cracked glass
- Weather-tight seals (no daylight visible around frames)
5. Handrails and Safety (5% of failures)
- Handrails required on all stairs with 4+ risers
- Balusters spaced no more than 4 inches apart
- Secure attachment — no wobbling
- No trip hazards on walkways or stairs
The Complete 50-Point Checklist
Beyond the Big Five, your inspection covers 13 performance categories. Complete pre-inspection walkthrough covers: sanitary facilities, food preparation, space and security, thermal environment, illumination, structure, air quality, water supply, lead paint, access, site conditions, and overall sanitary condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an HQS inspection cost?
The PHA conducts inspections at no cost to the landlord. You only pay for any repairs needed to pass.
How often are inspections conducted?
Annually, plus an initial inspection before the tenant moves in. Some PHAs are moving to biennial inspections for landlords with strong track records.