Section 8 Inspections: A Landlord's Essential Guide for 2024

What landlords need to know about Section 8 Inspections

When it comes to accepting Section 8 tenants, one of the most common concerns among landlords is the inspection process. Understandably, you might feel some apprehension about meeting with a city inspector—worrying about time, potential costs, or even failing the inspection. But rest assured, as a professional property management company committed to guiding landlords through these processes, we're here to help you navigate Section 8 inspections with ease.

The Day of the Inspection

On inspection day, either you or your property manager must be present to meet the inspector. Inspections typically occur between 7:00 am and 5:30 pm, but the exact time may only be confirmed on the day itself. During the pandemic, some PHAs allowed virtual inspections via video call, which could be more convenient if still available in your area.

Make sure all utilities are turned on, and that any appliances in the unit are functioning. The inspector will inform you immediately if the property passes or fails the inspection. If it passes, you can proceed to fill out the Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract with the PHA and execute the lease with your tenant. Expect a short processing period before receiving your first payment, which will be prorated to reflect the lease start date.

If the property does not pass, the inspector will categorize the issues as either "life-threatening" or "non-life-threatening." You’ll have 24 hours to correct life-threatening issues and up to 30 days for non-life-threatening ones. In some cases, PHAs may allow tenancy to begin before repairs are completed if the deficiencies are minor.

Ongoing Inspections

After the initial inspection, expect yearly or biannual follow-up inspections. These inspections serve as regular check-ups to ensure the property remains in good condition and that tenants are adhering to their responsibilities. While some landlords might find these inspections burdensome, they actually offer a valuable opportunity to identify maintenance needs early and hold tenants accountable for property upkeep.

For example, in California, tenants are required by law to maintain their rental units and common areas. If they fail to address issues they’ve caused, they risk losing their Section 8 voucher, which adds a layer of protection for landlords.