Section 8 Housing Inspector

Section 8 Housing Inspector
HCV Choice Voucher Program
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Under the supervision of the Inspection Supervisor/Director of HCV Program the HCV Housing Inspector plays a critical role in ensuring program compliance and safe living conditions. The primary responsibility is conducting comprehensive physical condition and quality standard inspections of occupied and vacant dwellings for properties participating in, or applying to participate in, the Housing Choice Voucher Program, in strict accordance with NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) protocols.
EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)
- Performs physical pre-occupancy, initial, annual and follow-up inspections of potential or participating properties in the Program.
- Performs special inspections to resolve complaints by participants and/or landlords.
- Prepares and submits reports that summarize all deficiencies noted during the inspection, inclusive of the recommended corrective action to be taken.
- Communicates orally and in writing with property owners or management agents concerning units’ compliance with housing quality standards.
- Compiles all data necessary to facilitate rent reasonableness analysis and utility allowance adjustments.
- Maintains a current listing of available units throughout the City for participation in the Program.
- Establishes a viable working relationship with property owners and property management companies involved with the Program.
- Prepares reports and written correspondence as required and ensures records are maintained in compliance with Program regulations.
- Maintains confidentiality of landlord/participants and all business-related information.
- Observes all safety rules and regulations.
- Job duties, responsibilities, specifications, and other job aspects may be changed as needed; performs other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Fundamental knowledge of HUD NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) or Housing Quality Standards protocols and standards, along with a general working knowledge of the City of Portsmouth’s local occupancy and housing standards. Comprehensive knowledge of HCV program regulations, policies and procedures.
- Basic working knowledge of all phases of residential maintenance and construction trades—including masonry, carpentry, concrete, roofing, sheet metal, landscaping, and plumbing—is highly desirable. Good clerical and administrative aptitude, organizational skills and proficient in mathematical calculations.
- Computer literacy, including proficiency in personal computer operations, electronic communications, and specialized housing inspection/management software.
- Good verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to handle delicate tenant-landlord relations professionally and feel comfortable speaking or presenting information to others.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be a self-starter who demonstrates initiative, works independently, exercises sound judgment with minimal supervision, and maintains a strong record of punctuality and dependable attendance.
- Must possess strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with the skill to plan, schedule, and execute work efficiently to meet critical deadlines and performance measures.
- Must perform well under pressure and with time restraints.
- Must be generally available for occasional after-hours or weekend activities. Must remain accessible during emergencies, preferably by phone or other designated communication channels.
- Must have the ability to make sound, independent "on-the-spot" decisions in the field in strict accordance with established policies, procedures, and NSPIRE guidelines.
- Must be bondable; successful completion of a drug screening and a criminal history background check is required.
- Must possess exceptional interpersonal and human relations skills to project a positive image of the Housing Authority. Must establish and maintain cooperative, functional working relationships with co-workers, social agencies, program participants, property owners, management companies, and other city agencies.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to conduct field inspections across all types of dwellings under varying weather and environmental conditions.
- Ability to physically access all areas of potential and participating dwelling units, including basements, attics, and tight spaces.
- Ability to stoop, kneel, bend, stretch, crawl, and climb ladders or stairs as required to thoroughly inspect structural components per NSPIRE standards.
- Ability to operate a variety of automated office and field equipment, including computers, tablets, mobile devices, printers, and communication tools.
- Ability to lift, move, and carry objects and materials such as inspection files, reports, and portable testing equipment.
- Ability to operate a motor vehicle, remain insurable by the organization's automobile insurance carrier, and possess and maintain a valid driver's license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia throughout the duration of employment.
ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Any combination of education equivalent to graduation from high school with two years attendance at a college or university, or vocational study in one or more of the building trades. Two years’ experience in a responsible position directly related to construction or building trades maintenance and possess a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate building and sanitation codes is desirable. Previous experience in federally assisted property management, HUD/Section 8 programs or real estate is highly desirable. HUD NSPIRE Inspector Certification (or equivalent Section 8 inspector training certification) required.
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