Section 8 Inspection - Fail

[Jerry N.]

Like to know your experience or opinion.
Local Housing Authority has hired new inspection company. One of my property was failed for 4 missing window screens, 1 ungrounded 3-prong outlet and access to attic for inspection. This is 3-floor MFH, inspection was for the first floor unit. I have nothing against safe, livable and clean property.
But I don't think having screens in ALL windows is necessity or reason for them to access attic, this is not livable space, tenants have no access to it and none of my other inspectors in prior years ever had requested access to the attic? I'm planning to call HA and Inspection agency to get some clarification and maybe complain.

I know this can be easily corrected but where this stops? What's next?
Do you have any suggestions how I can reason screens and attic out?

Thank you.

[Ed O.]

I wish there was a yes answer, but there isn't. They make the rules, they cut the checks. If you push back, you're more likely to have a tougher inspection next time.
The one you might be able to get by on is the attic access. It makes sense to try and be in the better graces of your inspectors and to meet them at the homes when possible. It will go a long way towards reducing repair requests if you can build rapport with them.
These don't sound like a terribly expensive list of items. Compare it to your costs of turning over the unit, and for me at least, I'm getting things fixed and keeping the cash flow coming. Be sure to get your renewals done ahead of doing this work.