Before a Section 8 tenant can move in, your property must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection conducted by the Montgomery Housing Authority. Understanding what inspectors look for — and preparing in advance — prevents costly delays.
What HQS Inspectors Check
HQS inspections cover 13 key areas of housing quality including: functional smoke detectors, working plumbing with no leaks, proper electrical outlets and GFCI protection in kitchens and bathrooms, working HVAC, no peeling paint (especially in pre-1978 homes), secure windows and doors, functioning appliances, proper water heater temperature and pressure relief, no trip hazards, adequate ventilation, and structural integrity.
Most Common Fail Points
Based on our experience managing Section 8 properties in Montgomery, the most common inspection failures are: missing or dead smoke detector batteries, minor plumbing leaks under sinks, missing GFCI outlets in wet areas, peeling exterior paint, damaged window screens, and missing handrails on stairs.
Most of these are inexpensive fixes — but they'll delay tenant placement if not caught beforehand.
How James-Hawkins Prepares Properties
Before any HQS inspection, our team conducts a pre-inspection walkthrough using the same checklist the Housing Authority uses. We identify and fix issues proactively so the official inspection passes on the first attempt. This is included in our standard management services — no extra charge.
Already have a property that needs inspection prep? Contact us — we can help even if you're not currently under management.
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