HUD Opens Pre-Registration for NSPIRE Demonstration

HUD recently opened a pre-registration for agencies interested in participating in the NSPIRE Demonstration. NSPIRE is a new physical housing inspection model, and HUD wants to test the adjustments to standards, protocols, and processes prior to nationwide implementation. The department is seeking participation from 4,500 properties and will select from a nationwide pool of Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and Property Owners and Agents (POAs).

PHAs and POAs are encouraged to register one or multiple properties for acceptance into the demonstration, but there’s no requirement to submit all properties within a portfolio. Submission of an application doesn’t constitute acceptance into the program, nor does it obligate the PHA or POA in any way. Once accepted into the demonstration, participants may voluntarily withdraw any or all properties at any time.

NSPIRE scores will be advisory, and agencies will keep their current UPCS scores during their participation in the demonstration. Participants in the demonstration will have the opportunity to participate in focus groups, listening sessions, conference calls, and training session on NSPIRE policies and procedures that will help “shape the new inspection model.” Participation will also include access to training opportunities, including how to use new inspection software.

Agencies interested in participating must agree to annually inspect 100 percent of their units and submit non-scored self-inspections to HUD. Agencies must also schedule a mutually agreed upon inspection date with a HUD inspector so data can be collected. HUD reserves the right to order and execute a UPCS inspection and apply any available remedies, sanctions, or other actions as determined by the results if property conditions warrant during participation in the demonstration. Agencies with properties subject to existing HUD Compliance, Disposition, and Enforcement or Corrective Action Plan cannot participate in the demonstration.

HUD anticipates that the first-round of demonstration participants will be selected by September 2019. Interested parties can pre-register by clicking here.