UPDATED: NSPIRE Proposed Rule published for comment
Posted On: January 20, 2021
Comment on the NSPIRE Proposed Rule
Updated: February 9, 2021 to include the following Tuesday Tip.
The National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate- NSPIRE Proposed Rule- is now listed in the Federal Register. Through March 15, 2021, you will be able to comment on NSPIRE by mail or electronic submission publicly. Here’s how to publicly comment on HUD’s NSPIRE Proposed Rule. You have until March 15, 2021.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) says the publication is “the most significant milestone.”
NSPIRE Background
The NSPIRE Proposed Rule is an evolution of the inspection process. HUD currently utilizes two inspection models: HQS, or Housing Quality Standards, and UCPS, the Uniform Physical Condition Standards. The HQS model was developed in the 70s. HUD added the UPCS in the 90s. According to the publication, “both remain largely unchanged since their inception.” In contrast, the privately-owned housing has outpaced government-owned properties, HUD says, over the last 20 years.
We first posted about the proposed changeover to NSPIRE in 2019. According to HUD, the current models often ” provide inaccurate and inconsistent results and can prevent HUD from effectively evaluating housing.” The NSPIRE Proposed Rule stresses the consolidation of 16 different regulations will “increase resident safety.” At the same time, it will cut down the “administrative burden” of having so many regulations.
Questions for Comment
HUD is requesting public comment on several questions, including:
How HUD can best define what is meant by safe or potable water (Q2)
In written property standards, which elements should be required? (Q9)
How to Comment on NSPIRE Proposed Rule
By Mail
Regulations Division Office of General Counsel Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 7th Street SW, Room 10276 Washington, DC 20410-0500
This method “often results in delayed delivery” because of federal security measures. If you choose this method, mail your NSPIRE Proposed Rule comments at least two weeks ahead of the deadline.
Tuesday Tip: New REAC Process for Inspections during Pandemic
On September 29, 2020, HUD released Inspector Notice 2020-01 – The new guidance became effective yesterday, Monday, October 5, 2020. The new REAC Process for Inspections is to assist with the return to operations and to prioritize safe practical means to resume inspection activities.
REAC is back! Vickie discusses everything you need to know about the resuming of REAC physical inspections, including all the protocols and strategies HUD and REAC are using to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
