After 20 years of utilizing the Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) inspections process for federally-assisted housing, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is moving closer to nationwide implementation of the new National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) standard. NSPIRE streamlines the process and creates better outcomes for participating renters, housing providers and the public housing authorities (PHAs) that administer HUD’s housing programs. Below are some early takeaways about the new process that you should know if your properties require REAC inspections.
NSPIRE is designed to improve housing quality through accurate, credible, and reliable assessments of HUD’s real estate portfolio. HUD is employing a simplified three-pronged approach to more easily identify properties not adhering to minimum compliance standards. In the new inspection process, HUD hopes to increase the focus on residents’ homes, reduce inspection complexity and hopefully improve confidence in HUD.
In late 2019, HUD began a two-year, voluntary demonstration, or pilot program, to test and refine the standards and processes in the NSPIRE model. It was designed to improve the objectivity and accuracy of REAC’s physical inspection assessment. This demonstration involves a diverse, representative group of stakeholders, including HUD officials across verticals, PHAs and participating housing providers.
During the demonstration, volunteer properties around the U.S. participate in inspections using the new protocol and provide feedback. The new NSPIRE model prioritizes health, safety and functional defects over appearance. It also implements inspections that better reflect the true physical conditions of the property.
To learn more about NSPIRE, join NAA and HUD officials on September 17 at 3:00 pm ET and gain insights into the new inspection process. This webinar is tailored for NAA members whose properties require REAC inspections. This includes property owners, managers, maintenance professionals and affiliate staff who are interested in learning about HUD’s new standards ensuring the health and safety of residents. Register here.