A limited amount of funding may remain to assist qualifying properties for HUD’s “Big Buy” reimbursement program. The program was established to reimburse eligible properties for some or all of the costs of obtaining a lead hazard risk assessment required to comply with the Lead Safe Housing Rule (24 CFR Part 35). It has been plagued by funding deficiencies since it was rolled out in 2000. NAA/NMHC and the National Leased Housing Association have urged HUD to fulfill its obligations on this program.
More than 4,000 properties signed up for the program, although many have never received their reimbursement. HUD has dropped many properties, asserting that they are no longer eligible or have not responded to letters sent by HUD. Members are urged to check HUD’s original list to ensure that they did sign up for the program. HUD has also provided us with its current, smaller list of eligible properties as well as a document outlining eligibility.
Members who signed up for the Big Buy program and remain eligible may still be able to receive a lead inspection or reimbursement for an already completed inspection. Information, including HUD’s lists and information on what to do if your property is on the list and has not been contacted by HUD, is available at www.naahq.org/governmentaffairs.