New Standards Will Be Effective October 1, 2024
National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) streamlines standards. It creates a unified assessment between the HUD, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) formerly known as Section 8, and Multifamily Housing Programs. The new model aims to address Landlords concerns by increasing inspection consistency. The new Standards will be effective October 1, 2024. Listed new standards which are different from the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) model:
Smoke Alarms
- Are required on each level of the home and inside each sleeping area. Sealed batteries will be required. Effective December 29, 2024.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
- Are required inside units and in unit inside areas such as hallways containing a fuel-burning appliance or fireplace.
Permanently Installed Heating sources are:
- One that is installed and self-fueled.
- Permanently affixed within the unit or building.
- Safely connected to the unit or building electrical system.
- Thermostatically controlled by the unit or building.
- By forced air heating, radiant heat, baseboard units heated by electric, or installed wall units.
NOTE: Portable space heaters are not permitted and are not considered NSPIRE compliant.
Setting Minimum Temperature Requirements:
- If the inspection is on or between October 1 and March 31, and the permanently installed heating source is not working, or it is working but the interior temperature is below 64 degrees, this will be considered a life-threatening deficiency and requires repair within 24 hours. If the interior temperature is between 64 and 67.9 degrees, it is considered nonlife-threatening and still requires to be repaired within 30-days.
Housing Provider Survey
In early 2024, the HCVP will be sending out an email link to complete our Housing Provider survey. This provides DHA with valuable feedback regarding what we are doing well, and where we can improve. DHA strives to be responsive to the needs of all our stakeholders, and your input is vital. If you are not sure that we have the best email address for you, please contact us at S8landlords@denverhousing.org to provide an update.
Housing Provider Forms
For needed HCVP documents, visit our website, documents are now available online. Forms include Rent Increase Request, Direct Deposit, Ownership Change, Landlord Address Change, etc. Search the Documents Library section of the website.
RFTA Leasing Process and Payments
- Ensure the RFTA is complete thoroughly prior to submission. Allow for up to 15 days for processing.
- Inspection request turnaround times are 5-7 business days.
- HAP payments may take up to 60 days for disbursal.
- For questions regarding leasing: Email
rfta@denverhousing.org or call 720-932-3230.