Landlord Resources

HQS Inspection Checklist

The Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection is required before NYCHA approves a Section 8 tenancy. Use this checklist to prepare your unit and pass the first time.

Living Spaces (Living Room, Bedrooms)

☐ At least one window that opens (or working AC)
☐ Working light fixture or at least two working outlets
☐ No peeling paint (especially important if built before 1978)
☐ Working lock on entry door
☐ No holes in walls, floors, or ceilings
☐ Bedroom doors must close properly

Kitchen

☐ Working stove with all burners functional
☐ Working oven
☐ Working refrigerator that maintains proper temperature
☐ Working sink with hot and cold water
☐ No leaks under sink
☐ Adequate cabinet or storage space

Bathroom

☐ Working toilet that flushes and doesn't run
☐ Working sink with hot and cold water
☐ Working tub or shower with hot and cold water
☐ Ventilation (window that opens or exhaust fan)
☐ No leaks around toilet, tub, or sink
☐ Privacy lock on door

Safety Requirements

☐ Working smoke detector in each bedroom and common areas
☐ Carbon monoxide detector (if gas appliances present)
☐ Window guards on windows above first floor (if children under 10)
☐ No exposed wiring
☐ All outlets have cover plates
☐ Working deadbolt on entry door
☐ Secure handrails on stairs

Building & Exterior

☐ Working intercom or bell system
☐ Secure building entry door
☐ Mailbox with working lock
☐ No trash or debris in common areas
☐ Adequate lighting in hallways and stairs

Common Fail Points

The most common HQS failures are: missing smoke detector batteries, peeling paint, leaky faucets, missing outlet covers, and broken window locks. Do a thorough walk-through before scheduling your inspection.

2024 NYC Payment Standards

Payment standards determine the maximum rent NYCHA will pay for a voucher holder. These are updated annually and vary by borough.

Bedrooms	Manhattan	Brooklyn	Queens	Bronx	Staten Island
Studio	$2,387	$2,387	$2,387	$2,387	$2,387
1 BR	$2,700	$2,700	$2,700	$2,700	$2,700
2 BR	$3,063	$3,063	$3,063	$3,063	$3,063
3 BR	$3,951	$3,951	$3,951	$3,951	$3,951
4 BR	$4,291	$4,291	$4,291	$4,291	$4,291

*These are 2024 NYCHA payment standards. Actual amounts may vary. Contact NYCHA for current figures.

Useful Links & Contacts

NYCHA Section 8

Owner Hotline: 718-707-7771
Website: nyc.gov/nycha
Owner Portal: eapps.nycha.info

HPD Section 8

Phone: 212-863-8000
Website: nyc.gov/hpd

Fair Housing

NYC Human Rights: 311
Website: nyc.gov/cchr

HPD Code Enforcement

Phone: 311
Website: nyc.gov/hpd