Archive for June 2025

The Housing Authority of Thurston County is committed to helping landlords and property managers navigate the transition to HUD’s National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE). While “housekeeping” is not directly cited in the NSPIRE protocol, the way a unit is maintained by residents can have a major impact on inspection outcomes.…

As the Housing Authority of Thurston County continues the transition from Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE), one key area of change is how mold-like substances are evaluated during inspections. Understanding these new standards is essential to staying compliant and protecting the health of your…

As part of our ongoing compliance with HUD’s National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE), the Housing Authority of Thurston County place special emphasis on the inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers. This article highlights what landlords, property managers, and owners need to know to stay compliant with NSPIRE and ensure their…

In our ongoing series about understanding NSPIRE, this article is on the critical aspect of fire-rated doors. It’s essential to understand the requirements and ensure your properties comply. This article provides an overview based on the upcoming criteria that will take effect October 1st, 2025. Fire-Rated Doors: Key Points Identification and Importance: Self-Closing Hardware: Inspection…

As part of HUD’s new National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE), it’s important for landlords to be aware of how fire suppression sprinklers are evaluated during inspections. While not all properties have sprinkler systems, those that do are subject to strict requirements. All deficiencies related to sprinkler systems under NSPIRE are…

One of the most important safety requirements under NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) is that landlords maintain clear and accessible escape routes—called egress points—in all assisted housing units. This article explains what egress means and what you need to know to stay compliant and keep your tenants safe. What Is…

Parking lots might seem simple, but they have important standards under NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate). If you manage or own properties with parking areas, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant. When Do NSPIRE Parking Lot Standards Apply? Parking lot requirements only apply if your property owns…