Inspections

The Thurston County Housing Authority currently conducts Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections. An HQS inspection is a thorough review conducted by trained inspectors to ensure that all homes meet specific safety, health, and quality guidelines as mandated by federal housing regulations. These inspections are important as they ensure the well-being of all residents, providing them with safe and decent living conditions.

Regular inspections are performed annually or biennially to ensure continuous compliance with HQS, though additional inspections may occur if there are changes in tenancy, a change in the voucher contract, or if an inspection is requested. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated throughout this process, as it helps us maintain a standard of living expected within our community. Together, we can ensure a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for everyone.

Please note our inspection process will be transitioning from HQS to the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE). This change aims to enhance the quality and safety of housing conditions further. Please read more about NSPIRE below.

Changes in HQS Inspections: A Move to NSPIRE

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is set for a significant transition, moving from the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) by October 1, 2025. This shift, mandated by Congress, updates inspection standards that have remained unchanged for over two decades, unifying multiple HUD programs under a single inspection protocol. NSPIRE's core mission aims to ensure residents enjoy safe, habitable living conditions. It focuses on the functional adequacy, operability, and safety of elements within three crucial areas: Unit, Inside, and Outside.

Compliance Deadline Extended

HUD has extended the NSPIRE implementation deadline from October 1, 2024, to October 1, 2025. This gives housing authorities, property owners, and partners more time to prepare. During this time, HUD encourages training staff, engaging with landlords, and reviewing the latest technical guidance and inspection tools.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector Requirements Still Apply

Regardless of the NSPIRE delay, HUD’s statutory requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors remain in effect:

  • By December 29, 2024, smoke detectors must be either hard-wired with battery backup or have a sealed, non-removable 10-year battery, per the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023.

For more information on the new smoke detector requirements, please refer to the letter mailed last year:

NOTICE: NEW SMOKE & CO DETECTOR REQUIREMENTS EFFECTIVE 12/29/2024

How NSPIRE compares to HQS

Area Definitions

Under NSPIRE, the critical areas of focus include Unit, Inside, and Outside, each defined below.

Further Reading

Explore additional resources to stay informed about upcoming NSPIRE inspection standards.

Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Bathroom Ventilation

July 10, 2025

Proper bathroom ventilation is essential for maintaining healthy living conditions and preventing moisture-related damage. Under HUD’s…

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Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Housekeeping

June 6, 2025

The Housing Authority of Thurston County is committed to helping landlords and property managers navigate the…

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Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Mold-Like Substance

June 6, 2025

As the Housing Authority of Thurston County continues the transition from Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to…

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Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Fire Extinguishers

June 6, 2025

As part of our ongoing compliance with HUD’s National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real…

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Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Fire-Rated Doors

June 6, 2025

In our ongoing series about understanding NSPIRE, this article is on the critical aspect of fire-rated…

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Understanding NSPIRE Inspections: Fire Suppression Sprinklers

June 6, 2025

As part of HUD’s new National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE), it’s…

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For more information, visit HUD’s NSPIRE homepage.