Copyright: littleny
HUD recently announced a policy change for inspecting units with bed bugs by
all inspectors who conduct physical inspections of HUD assisted and insured
properties. Specifically, these units will now have to be fully inspected like
any other unit. The previous policy required inspectors not to enter a unit if
bed bugs were reported, and to choose a different unit to inspect. Importantly,
the new policy makes clear that the presence and treatment of bed bugs on a
property will not affect the
inspection score.
This policy amends the old protocol by requiring inspectors to enter all
units in which bed bugs are reported. The change is taking place as a result of
research that found the likelihood of transfer of bed bugs to an inspector from
an infested unit is remote.
NMHC/NAA will continue to call for expanded research efforts to develop solutions to control bed bugs. We are also working to identify best practices and other options to assist owners in dealing with catastrophic bed bug infestations. In addition, we are partnering with regulatory officials to ensure that actions through notices, rules and regulations are consistent with our industry’s observed best practices for bed bug management.