Built from the published HUD NSPIRE standardsv2026.07

NSPIRE Self-Inspection Checklist

Every deficiency an inspector can cite — all 204 of them — organized the way you actually walk a unit, severity-tagged, with the 45 life-threatening items flagged in red. Walk it before your PHA does.

Found deficiencies on your walk? Estimate the score impact with the free NSPIRE score calculator.

The 10 highest-stakes fails

These are life-threatening classifications under the published HUD standards — the items that carry a 24-hour repair clock the moment an inspector tags them. Check these first in every unit.

  1. 1

    Exposed electrical conductor.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and Switch · 24-hour fix window

  2. 2

    The overcurrent protection device is damaged.

    Electrical - Service Panel · 24-hour fix window

  3. 3

    Smoke alarm is not installed where required.*

    Smoke Alarm · 24-hour fix window

  4. 4

    Carbon monoxide alarm is missing, not installed, or not installed in a proper location.*

    Carbon Monoxide · 24-hour fix window

  5. 5

    Obstructed means of egress.

    Egress · 24-hour fix window

  6. 6

    Unvented space heater that burns gas, oil, or kerosene is present.*

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) · 24-hour fix window

  7. 7

    Chimney or flue piping is blocked, misaligned, or missing.

    Water Heater · 24-hour fix window

  8. 8

    Guardrail is missing or not installed.*

    Guardrail · 24-hour fix window

  9. 9

    Natural gas, propane, or oil leak.

    Leak - Gas/Oil · 24-hour fix window

  10. 10

    Presence of mold-like substance at extremely high levels is observed visually.

    Mold-Like Substance · 24-hour fix window

The full room-by-room checklist

Filter by room or severity, check items off as you walk, print the whole thing for a clipboard. Photograph everything as you go — even what passes. Dated photos end the argument.

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Showing 204 of 204 items · 0 checked (saved for this browser session — create an account to keep it)

Unit Entry & Doors10 items

  • Entry door will not open.

    Door - EntryModerate
  • Entry door will not close.

    Door - EntrySevere24-hr fix window
  • Entry door self-closing mechanism is damaged, inoperable, or missing.

    Door - EntrySevere24-hr fix window
  • Hole, split, or crack that penetrates completely through entry door.

    Door - EntryModerate
  • Entry door is missing.

    Door - EntryLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Entry door surface is delaminated or separated.

    Door - EntryModerate
  • Entry door frame, threshold, or trim is damaged or missing.

    Door - EntryModerate
  • Entry door seal, gasket, or stripping is damaged, inoperable, or missing.

    Door - EntryModerate
  • Entry door component is damaged, inoperable, or missing and it does not limit the door’s ability to provide privacy or protection from weather or infestation.

    Door - EntryLow
  • Entry door cannot be secured.

    Door - EntrySevere24-hr fix window

Kitchen19 items

  • Food storage space is not present.*

    Cabinet and StorageModerate
  • Storage component is damaged, inoperable, or missing.

    Cabinet and StorageModerate
  • Cooking range, cooktop, or oven does not ignite or produce heat.

    Cooking ApplianceSevere24-hr fix window
  • Cooking range, cooktop, or oven component is damaged or missing such that the device is unsafe for use.

    Cooking ApplianceModerate
  • Primary cooking appliance is missing.*

    Cooking ApplianceModerate
  • A microwave is the primary cooking appliance and it is damaged.

    Cooking ApplianceSevere24-hr fix window
  • A burner does not produce heat, but at least 1 other burner is present on the cooking range or cooktop and does produce heat.

    Cooking ApplianceModerate
  • Food preparation area is not present.*

    Food Preparation AreaModerate
  • Food preparation area is damaged or is not functionally adequate.

    Food Preparation AreaModerate
  • Refrigerator is inoperable such that it may be unable to safely and adequately store food.

    RefrigeratorModerate
  • Refrigerator component is damaged such that it impacts functionality.

    RefrigeratorModerate
  • Refrigerator is missing.*

    RefrigeratorModerate
  • Sink or sink component is damaged or missing and the sink is not functionally adequate.

    SinkModerate
  • Water is directed outside of the basin.

    SinkLow
  • Sink is not draining.

    SinkModerate
  • Sink is improperly installed, pulling away from the wall, leaning, or there are gaps between the sink and wall.

    SinkModerate
  • Sink component is damaged or missing and the sink is functionally adequate.

    SinkLow
  • Cannot activate or deactivate hot and cold water.*

    SinkModerate
  • Sink is missing or not installed within the primary kitchen.*

    SinkModerate

Bathroom(s)14 items

  • Only 1 bathtub or shower is present and it is inoperable or does not drain.

    Bathtub and ShowerSevere24-hr fix window
  • A bathtub or shower is inoperable or does not drain and at least 1 bathtub or shower is present elsewhere that is operational.

    Bathtub and ShowerModerate
  • Bathtub component or shower component is damaged, inoperable, or missing such that it may limit the resident's ability to maintain personal hygiene.

    Bathtub and ShowerModerate
  • Bathtub component or shower component is damaged, inoperable, or missing and it does not limit the resident's ability to maintain personal hygiene.

    Bathtub and ShowerLow
  • Bathtub or shower cannot be used in private.*

    Bathtub and ShowerModerate
  • Grab bar is not secure.

    Grab BarModerate
  • Only 1 toilet was installed, and it is missing.

    ToiletLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • A toilet is missing and at least 1 toilet is installed elsewhere that is operational.

    ToiletModerate
  • Only 1 toilet was installed, and it is damaged or inoperable.

    ToiletSevere24-hr fix window
  • A toilet is damaged or inoperable and at least 1 toilet is installed elsewhere that is operational.

    ToiletModerate
  • Toilet component is damaged, inoperable, or missing such that it may limit the resident’s ability to safely discharge human waste.

    ToiletModerate
  • Toilet is not secured at the base.

    ToiletModerate
  • Toilet component is damaged, inoperable, or missing and it does not limit the resident’s ability to discharge human waste.

    ToiletLow
  • Toilet cannot be used in private.*

    ToiletModerate

Bedrooms & Living Areas6 items

  • Ceiling has an unstable surface.

    CeilingModerate
  • Ceiling has a hole.

    CeilingModerate
  • Ceiling component(s) is not functionally adequate.

    CeilingSevere24-hr fix window
  • Floor substrate is exposed.

    FloorModerate
  • Floor component(s) is not functionally adequate.

    FloorModerate
  • A sharp edge that can result in a cut or puncture hazard is present.

    Sharp EdgesSevere24-hr fix window

Electrical (Throughout)17 items

  • Outlet or switch is damaged.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and SwitchLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Testing indicates a three-pronged outlet is not properly wired or grounded.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and SwitchSevere24-hr fix window
  • Outlet does not have visible damage and testing indicates it is not energized.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and SwitchSevere24-hr fix window
  • Exposed electrical conductor.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and SwitchLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Water is currently in contact with an electrical conductor.

    Electrical - Conductor, Outlet, and SwitchLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker is not visibly damaged and the test or reset button is inoperable.

    Electrical - GFCI/AFCISevere24-hr fix window
  • AFCI outlet or AFCI breaker is not visibly damaged and the test or reset button is inoperable.

    Electrical - GFCI/AFCISevere24-hr fix window
  • An unprotected outlet is present within six feet of a water source.*

    Electrical - GFCI/AFCISevere24-hr fix window
  • Electrical service panel is not readily accessible.

    Electrical - Service PanelModerate
  • The overcurrent protection device is damaged.

    Electrical - Service PanelLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • The overcurrent protection device is contaminated.

    Electrical - Service PanelSevere24-hr fix window
  • Auxiliary lighting is damaged, missing, or fails to illuminate when tested.

    Lighting - AuxiliarySevere24-hr fix window
  • A permanently installed light fixture is damaged, inoperable, missing, or not secure.

    Lighting - ExteriorModerate
  • A permanently installed light fixture is inoperable.

    Lighting - InteriorModerate
  • A permanently installed light fixture is not secure.

    Lighting - InteriorModerate
  • At least one (1) permanently installed light fixture is not present in the kitchen and bathroom.*

    Lighting - InteriorModerate
  • At least two (2) working outlets are not present within each habitable room. OR At least one (1) working outlet and one (1) permanently installed light fixture is not present within each habitable room.*

    Minimum Electrical and LightingModerate

Smoke, CO & Life Safety20 items

  • Smoke alarm is not installed where required.*

    Smoke AlarmLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Smoke alarm is obstructed.

    Smoke AlarmLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Smoke alarm does not produce an audio or visual alarm when tested.

    Smoke AlarmLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Carbon monoxide alarm is missing, not installed, or not installed in a proper location.*

    Carbon MonoxideLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Carbon monoxide alarm is obstructed.

    Carbon MonoxideLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Carbon monoxide alarm does not produce an audio or visual alarm when tested.

    Carbon MonoxideLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • System is blocked, or pull cord is higher than 6 inches off the floor.

    Call-For-Aid SystemLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • System does not function properly.

    Call-For-Aid SystemLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Obstructed means of egress.

    EgressLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Sleeping room is located on the 3rd floor or below and has an obstructed rescue opening.

    EgressLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Fire escape access is obstructed.

    EgressLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Exit sign is damaged, missing, obstructed, or not adequately illuminated.

    Exit SignLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Fire escape component is damaged or missing.

    Fire EscapeLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Fire extinguisher pressure gauge reads over or under-charged.

    Fire ExtinguisherLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Fire extinguisher service tag is missing, illegible, or expired.

    Fire ExtinguisherLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Fire extinguisher is damaged or missing.

    Fire ExtinguisherLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Sprinkler head assembly is encased or obstructed by an item or object that is within 18 inches of the sprinkler head.

    Sprinkler AssemblyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Sprinkler assembly component is damaged, inoperable, or missing and it is detrimental to performance.

    Sprinkler AssemblyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Sprinkler assembly has evidence of corrosion.

    Sprinkler AssemblyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Sprinkler assembly has evidence of foreign material that is detrimental to performance.

    Sprinkler AssemblyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window

HVAC, Water Heater & Utility24 items

  • A visually accessible chimney, flue, or firebox connected to a fireplace or wood-burning appliance is incomplete or damaged such that it may not safely contain fire and convey smoke and combustion gases to the exterior.

    ChimneyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Chimney exhibits signs of structural failure.

    ChimneyLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Electric dryer transition duct is detached or missing.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Gas dryer transition duct is detached or missing.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Electric dryer exhaust ventilation system has restricted airflow.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Dryer transition duct is constructed of unsuitable material.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Gas dryer exhaust ventilation system has restricted airflow.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Exterior dryer vent cover, cap, or a component thereof is missing.

    Clothes Dryer Exhaust VentilationLow
  • Air conditioning system or device is not operational.

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Moderate
  • Unvented space heater that burns gas, oil, or kerosene is present.*

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Life-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Combustion chamber cover or gas shutoff valve is missing from a fuel burning heating appliance.

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Life-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Heating system or device safety shield is damaged or missing.

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Severe24-hr fix window
  • The inspection date is on or between April 1 and September 30 and a permanently installed heating source is damaged, inoperable, missing, or not installed.*

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Moderate
  • Fuel burning heating system or device exhaust vent is misaligned, blocked, disconnected, improperly connected, damaged, or missing.

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Life-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • The inspection date is on or between October 1 and March 31 and the permanently installed heating source is inoperable.

    Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)Moderate
  • Exhaust system does not respond to the control switch.

    VentilationModerate
  • Exhaust system has restricted airflow.

    VentilationModerate
  • Exhaust system component is damaged or missing.

    VentilationModerate
  • Bathroom does not have proper ventilation or dehumidification.

    VentilationModerate
  • Temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve has an active leak or is obstructed or relief valve discharge piping is damaged, capped, has an upward slope, or is constructed of unsuitable material.

    Water HeaterSevere24-hr fix window
  • No hot water.

    Water HeaterSevere24-hr fix window
  • The relief valve discharge piping is missing or terminates greater than 6 inches or less than 2 inches from waste receptor flood-level.

    Water HeaterModerate
  • Chimney or flue piping is blocked, misaligned, or missing.

    Water HeaterLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Gas shutoff valve is damaged, missing, or not installed.

    Water HeaterLife-Threatening24-hr fix window

Walls, Floors, Windows & Throughout54 items

  • Fire labeled door does not open.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • Fire labeled door does not close and latch or the self-closing hardware is damaged or missing such that the door does not self-close and latch.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • Fire labeled door assembly has a hole of any size or is damaged such that its integrity may be compromised.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • Fire labeled door seal or gasket is damaged or missing.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • An object is present that may prevent the fire labeled door from closing and latching or self-closing and latching.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • Fire labeled door cannot be secured.

    Door - FireSevere24-hr fix window
  • Fire labeled door is missing.

    Door - FireLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • A passage door does not open.

    Door - GeneralModerate
  • A passage door component is damaged, inoperable, or missing and the door is not functionally adequate.

    Door - GeneralLow
  • A door that is not intended to permit access between rooms has a damaged, inoperable, or missing component.

    Door - GeneralLow
  • An exterior door component is damaged, inoperable, or missing.

    Door - GeneralModerate
  • Drain is fully blocked.

    DrainModerate
  • Flammable or combustible item is on or within 3 feet of an appliance that provides heat for thermal comfort or a fuel-burning water heater. OR Improperly stored chemicals.

    Flammable and Combustible ItemLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Guardrail is missing or not installed.*

    GuardrailLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Guardrail is not functionally adequate.

    GuardrailLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Handrail is missing.

    HandrailModerate
  • Handrail is not secure.

    HandrailModerate
  • Handrail is not functionally adequate.

    HandrailModerate
  • Handrail is not installed where required.

    HandrailLow
  • Evidence of cockroaches.

    InfestationModerate
  • Extensive cockroach infestation.

    InfestationSevere24-hr fix window
  • Evidence of bedbugs.

    InfestationModerate
  • Extensive bedbug infestation.

    InfestationSevere24-hr fix window
  • Evidence of mice.

    InfestationModerate
  • Extensive mouse infestation.

    InfestationSevere24-hr fix window
  • Evidence of rats.

    InfestationModerate
  • Extensive rat infestation.

    InfestationSevere24-hr fix window
  • Evidence of other pests.

    InfestationModerate
  • Natural gas, propane, or oil leak.

    Leak - Gas/OilLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Blocked sewage system.

    Leak - Sewage SystemSevere24-hr fix window
  • Leak in sewage system.

    Leak - Sewage SystemSevere24-hr fix window
  • Cap to the cleanout or pump cover is detached or missing.

    Leak - Sewage SystemModerate
  • Cleanout cap or riser is damaged.

    Leak - Sewage SystemModerate
  • Environmental water intrusion.

    Leak - WaterModerate
  • Plumbing leak.

    Leak - WaterModerate
  • Fluid is leaking from the sprinkler assembly.

    Leak - WaterModerate
  • Presence of mold-like substance at moderate levels is observed visually.

    Mold-Like SubstanceModerate
  • Presence of mold-like substance at high levels is observed visually.

    Mold-Like SubstanceSevere24-hr fix window
  • Presence of mold-like substance at extremely high levels is observed visually.

    Mold-Like SubstanceLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Elevated moisture level.

    Mold-Like SubstanceModerate
  • Paint in a Unit or Inside the target property is deteriorated – below the level required for lead-safe work practices by a lead-certified firm or for passing clearance.

    Potential Lead-Based Paint Hazards - Visual AssessmentModerate
  • Paint in a Unit or Inside the target property is deteriorated – above the level required for lead-safe work practices by a lead-certified firm and passing clearance.

    Potential Lead-Based Paint Hazards - Visual AssessmentSevere24-hr fix window
  • Paint Outside on a target property is deteriorated – below the level required for lead-safe work practices by a lead-certified firm or for passing clearance.

    Potential Lead-Based Paint Hazards - Visual AssessmentModerate
  • Paint Outside on a target property is deteriorated – above the level required for lead-safe work practices by a lead-certified firm and passing clearance.

    Potential Lead-Based Paint Hazards - Visual AssessmentSevere24-hr fix window
  • Interior wall has a loose or detached surface covering.

    Wall - InteriorModerate
  • Interior wall component(s) is not functionally adequate.

    Wall - InteriorModerate
  • Interior wall has a hole that is greater than 2 inches in diameter or there is an accumulation of holes that are cumulatively greater than 6 inches by 6 inches.

    Wall - InteriorModerate
  • Window will not open or stay open.

    WindowModerate
  • Window cannot be secured.

    WindowModerate
  • Window will not close.

    WindowSevere24-hr fix window
  • Window component is damaged or missing and the window is not functionally adequate.

    WindowModerate
  • Tread is missing or damaged.

    Steps and StairsModerate
  • Stringer is damaged.

    Steps and StairsModerate
  • Step or stair is not functionally adequate.

    Steps and StairsModerate

Exterior, Site & Common Areas40 items

  • Address, signage, or building identification codes are broken, illegible, or not visible.

    Address and SignageModerate
  • Structural system exhibits signs of serious failure.

    Structural SystemLife-Threatening24-hr fix window
  • Foundation is cracked.

    FoundationModerate
  • Foundation has exposed rebar or foundation is spalling, flaking, or chipping.

    FoundationModerate
  • Foundation is infiltrated by water.

    FoundationModerate
  • Foundation support post, column, beam, or girder is damaged.

    FoundationModerate
  • Foundation vent cover is missing or damaged.

    FoundationModerate
  • Restricted flow of water from a roof drain, gutter, or downspout.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Gutter component is damaged, missing, or unfixed.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Roof surface has standing water.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Substrate is exposed.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Roof assembly has a hole.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Roof assembly is damaged.

    Roof AssemblyModerate
  • Exterior wall covering has missing sections of at least 1 square foot per wall.

    Wall - ExteriorModerate
  • Exterior wall has peeling paint of 10 square feet or more.

    Wall - ExteriorModerate
  • Exterior wall component(s) is not functionally adequate.

    Wall - ExteriorModerate
  • Fence component is missing.

    Fence and GateModerate
  • Gate does not open, close, latch, or lock.

    Fence and GateModerate
  • Fence demonstrates signs of collapse.

    Fence and GateModerate
  • Garage door has a hole.

    Garage DoorModerate
  • Garage door does not open, close, or remain open or closed.

    Garage DoorModerate
  • Litter is accumulated in an undesignated area.

    LitterModerate
  • Parking lot has any one pothole that is 4 inches deep and 1 square foot or greater.

    Parking LotModerate
  • Parking lot has ponding.

    Parking LotModerate
  • Road or driveway access to the property is blocked or impassable for vehicles.

    Private Roads and DrivewaysSevere24-hr fix window
  • Road or driveway has any one pothole that is 4 inches deep and 1 square foot or greater.

    Private Roads and DrivewaysModerate
  • Retaining wall is leaning away from the fill side.

    Retaining WallModerate
  • Retaining wall is partially or completely collapsed.

    Retaining WallModerate
  • Sidewalk, walkway, or ramp is blocked or impassable.

    Sidewalk, Walkway, RampModerate
  • Sidewalk, walkway, or ramp is not functionally adequate.

    Sidewalk, Walkway, RampModerate
  • Water runoff is unable to flow through the site drainage system.

    Site DrainageLow
  • Erosion is present.

    Site DrainageLow
  • Grate is not secure or does not cover the site drainage system’s collection point.

    Site DrainageModerate
  • Trip hazard on walking surface.

    Trip HazardModerate
  • Elevator is inoperable.

    ElevatorModerate
  • Elevator door does not fully open and close.

    ElevatorModerate
  • Elevator cab is not level with the floor.

    ElevatorModerate
  • Safety edge device has malfunctioned or is inoperable.

    ElevatorModerate
  • Chute door does not open or self-close and latch.

    Trash ChuteModerate
  • Chute is clogged.

    Trash ChuteModerate

Items marked with an asterisk (*) carry additional conditions in the published HUD standard text. Severity shown is the unit-context classification where HUD publishes one; inside/outside classifications are used otherwise. Checklist v2026.07.

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How this list is built: generated from PropertyLedger's structured database of the published HUD NSPIRE standards — 204 deficiencies across 63 standards — the same data that powers our in-app inspections. Versioned (v2026.07) and re-checked against HUD notices quarterly; the version stamp tells you it's current.

Educational tool based on published HUD NSPIRE standards; not affiliated with or endorsed by HUD; not a guarantee of inspection results.

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