NSPIRE Online Training

This training curriculum will provide you with a basic foundation of the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE) inspections model and how it works within the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program.

Training Instructions

Online, self-paced training
Foundational training intended primarily for HCV inspectors
Guidance including NSPIRE standards, notices, job aids, and guides
Must be completed in sequential order

Welcome to NSPIRE

NSPIRE is a method for conducting and processing inspections of HUD-assisted housing developed by HUD's Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC).

NSPIRE aims to improve confidence in HUD’s ability to keep properties in compliance by accurately assessing the condition of a unit, implementing streamlined inspection processes, and prioritizing the health and safety of residents. In this curriculum, you will complete a series of modules that will give you a foundation of the NSPIRE model and how it works within the HCV program. This is not intended to be a complete certificate-level training for inspectors.

For the best training experience, please use Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. Courses do not load in Internet Explorer.

Modules

Get Started

Training Order: The NSPIRE Online Training Program must be completed in sequential order: Pretest, NSPIRE Overview, HUD’s Requirements for Inspections, Deficiency Management, Quality Control, and Posttest. NOTE: Each learning module contains a Knowledge Check that must be passed to be able to move forward.

Questions? If you have any questions about this training or encounter any technical issues, please contact us.

Course 1: Pretest

Pretest

Test your pre-existing knowledge on NSPIRE.

Select the “Go to Pretest” button below.
Complete all questions in the pretest to be able to start the modules. The Pretest’s score will not impact your final training results.

Go To Pretest

Course 2: Welcome to NSPIRE

Module 2.1

NSPIRE Overview

Module 2.1: NSPIRE Overview

Definition and Purpose
NSPIRE vs. UPCS/HQS
3-3-3 System
NSPIRE Standards Manual

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Course 3: HUD’s Requirements for Inspections

Module 3.1

Introduction

Module 3.1: Introduction

Ethics in Performing and Submitting Inspections
How to Use the NSPIRE Standards Manual
HCV Repair Time Frames
Inspector Tools

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Module 3.2

Outside Inspection Requirements

Module 3.2: Outside Inspection Requirements

Definition of Outside
Fail Items Located Outside
In-Depth Look at 10 Common Items and Their Deficiencies
Practice Activities

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Module 3.3

Inside Inspection Requirements

Module 3.3: Inside Inspection Requirements

Definition of Inside
Fail Items Located Inside
In-Depth Look at 10 Common Items and Their Deficiencies
Practice Activities

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Module 3.4

Unit Inspection Requirements

Module 3.4: Unit Inspection Requirements

Definition of Unit
Fail Items Located in the Unit
In-Depth Look at 10 Common Items and Their Deficiencies
Practice Activities

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Course 4: Deficiency Management

Module 4.1

Part I

Module 4.1: Part I

Definition of Deficiency Management
First 5 Steps of the Inspection Process from Scheduling Inspections to Identifying Deficiencies
Recommended Inspection Sequences
Best Practices for Deficiency Management and NSPIRE Inspections

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Module 4.2

Part II

Module 4.2: Part II

Next 5 Steps of the Inspections Process from Determining Outcomes to Required PHA Notices
Possible NSPIRE Inspection Outcomes
Deficiency Resolution Options
Best Practices for Deficiency Management and NSPIRE Inspections

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