Landlords, here is your Section 8 Inspection Checklist

I am looking into purchasing an investment property that would be a strong contender for a Section 8 tenant. I asked some of my investor friends what is required to pass a Section 8 inspection, but mostly what I got was shrugs and blank stares.

So I poked around online, and found it. Here, let me save you the trouble:

      Housing Choice Voucher Program/Section 8

A couple of things jump out at me:

First, one big "DOH!" --  "All three-prong outlets must be wired correctly.  A three-prong circuit tester will be used at the time of the inspection to assure safety."

Yeah, well, since I have one of those, I can check those myself very easily! And if need be, call the electrician back to fix the dang outlets!

Second, "If the unit has a 3rd floor sleeping room(s), & the family is eligible to use this room for sleeping; the owner must provide a safe method of escape in the case of fire.  For example: Chain ladder."

MUCH cheaper to provide a chain ladder, stowed near the window, than pay an extra month's carrying costs waiting for a re-inspection!

Third, "The owner must provide "refusal disposal".  These facilities include trashcans with covers, garbage chutes, dumpsters with lids, and trash bags if they are the types approved by the local Health and Sanitation Department."

I'm not sure how one literally disposes of refusals, but if I can avoid a refusal by buying a $20 trash can, I'm happy to do so. Again, much cheaper than even one extra mortgage payment.

Gotta love the google!

Cheers,

Cass

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