NSPIRE Inspector

Position Summary

The HUD NSPIRE Inspector is responsible for conducting comprehensive physical inspections of HUD-assisted and HUD-insured housing properties in accordance with the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) protocol. The Inspector evaluates the health, safety, and habitability of residential units and common areas, documenting deficiencies using HUD-approved systems and tools, and producing inspection reports that meet federal quality and accuracy standards. This position requires demonstrated expertise in NSPIRE standards, strong observational and documentation skills, and the ability to work independently in field environments across a diverse portfolio of properties.

For more in-depth information regarding the NSPIRE program, you can also visit the links below to learn more:

HUD NSPIRE Overview

HUD NSPIRE Inspector Training Overview

Key Responsibilities

Inspection Execution

• Conduct NSPIRE-compliant physical inspections of HUD Public Housing, Project-Based Section 8, HCV, and other federally-assisted housing programs.

• Inspect all inspectable areas including dwelling units, common areas, building systems, building exterior, and site/grounds in accordance with NSPIRE standards.

• Identify, classify, and document health and safety deficiencies (Life-Threatening, Severe, Moderate, Low) in compliance with HUD severity definitions.

• Utilize HUD-approved inspection software (e.g., NSPIRE Inspector app, UPCS-V tools) to record findings in real time during field inspections.

• Photograph all identified deficiencies in accordance with HUD photographic evidence requirements.

• Conduct move-in, move-out, annual, and complaint-based inspections as assigned.

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare and submit accurate, complete inspection reports within required timeframes following each inspection.

• Maintain organized records of inspection data, photographs, supporting documentation, and chain-of-custody materials.

• Review draft reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submission.

• Respond to technical review comments and resolve discrepancies identified by HUD quality assurance reviewers.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Coordinate inspection scheduling with property owners, management agents, housing authorities, and residents.

• Communicate professionally with property management staff, residents, and HUD field office representatives during and after inspections.

• Provide written and verbal summaries of inspection findings to supervisors and clients as requested.

Compliance & Quality

• Maintain current HUD NSPIRE Inspector certification and all required continuing education.

• Stay current on updates to NSPIRE standards, HUD guidance, and inspection protocols.

• Adhere to all company quality management, data security, and professional conduct policies.

• Support internal quality assurance reviews and calibration exercises to ensure inter-rater reliability.

Qualifications

Ideal, but not mandatory

• Active HUD NSPIRE Inspector Certification (or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire).

• Minimum 2 years of experience conducting federally-funded housing inspections (REAC/UPCS, NSPIRE, or equivalent).

• Demonstrated knowledge of residential construction, building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural), and habitability standards.

• Proficiency with HUD inspection software applications and mobile devices used in the field.

• Valid driver's license and reliable personal vehicle for travel to inspection sites.

• Ability to pass a federal background check and HUD suitability review.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or related field preferred.

Preferred

• Prior experience as a HUD REAC inspector, NSPIRE inspector, or state/local housing code enforcement officer.

• Familiarity with UPCS, UPCS-V, NSPIRE protocols, and the NSPIRE scoring methodology.

• Experience with HUD Public Housing, Section 8, RAD, HOME, or CDBG-funded properties.

• ICC, NAHRO, or NAHI certifications in housing inspection or building inspection.

• Experience using Salesforce, Dynamics 365, or other CRM/work order platforms for inspection tracking.

Physical & Working Conditions

• Must be able to climb stairs, ladders, and access rooftops, crawlspaces, and attics.

• Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs and stand/walk for extended periods during site inspections.

• Work is performed primarily in the field at active residential properties in varying weather conditions.

• Frequent travel required; overnight travel may be required depending on contract assignment.