NSPIRE ResourceUpdated February 2026

NSPIRE Pre-Inspection Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to prepare your property for HUD NSPIRE inspection. Catch issues before the inspector does.

NSPIRE Inspection Categories

NSPIRE inspections cover these major areas. Check each category before your inspection.

Fire Safety

Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, emergency exits, sprinklers

Plumbing

Faucets, toilets, water heater, pipes, drains, water pressure

Electrical

Outlets, switches, wiring, GFCI protection, panel boxes

HVAC

Heating, cooling, ventilation, filters, thermostats

Complete Pre-Inspection Checklist

Fire Safety & Egress
  • Smoke detectors installed in every bedroom and common area
  • All smoke detectors tested and working (replace batteries)
  • Carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas (if gas appliances)
  • Fire extinguisher accessible and not expired
  • Emergency exits clear and unobstructed
  • Bedroom windows operable (secondary egress)
  • Exit doors not blocked by debris or furniture
Electrical Systems
  • All outlets working and properly grounded
  • GFCI outlets in kitchen, bathroom, and near water sources
  • No exposed wiring or damaged outlet covers
  • Light switches operational in all rooms
  • Circuit breaker panel accessible and properly labeled
  • No overloaded circuits or octopus connections
Plumbing & Water
  • All faucets working with adequate water pressure
  • Hot water available at all fixtures
  • Toilets flush properly and don't run constantly
  • No leaks under sinks or around toilets
  • Drains clear and draining properly
  • Water heater in good condition (no rust, proper venting)
Heating, Ventilation & AC
  • Heating system operational and producing adequate heat
  • Air conditioning working (if provided)
  • Clean air filters (replace if dirty)
  • Thermostat working properly
  • Bathroom ventilation fan operational
  • Kitchen range hood working (if present)
Structure & Interior
  • Walls free of holes, cracks, or water damage
  • Ceilings intact, no sagging or water stains
  • Floors stable, no tripping hazards
  • Windows operable and properly sealed
  • Doors close properly with working locks
  • Stairways have secure handrails
Health & Sanitation
  • No evidence of pest infestation (roaches, rodents, bedbugs)
  • No visible mold or mildew
  • Property is clean and sanitary
  • Garbage containers available and accessible
  • No lead paint hazards (peeling/chipping in pre-1978 homes)
Security & Access
  • Entry door has deadbolt or security lock
  • All exterior doors close and latch properly
  • Window locks functional on ground floor
  • Exterior lighting adequate
  • Address numbers visible from street

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    NSPIRE Pre-Inspection Checklist | PropertyLedger