Housing Quality Standards

The goal of the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is to provide “decent, safe and sanitary” housing at an affordable cost to low-income families.  To accomplish this, program regulations set forth basic housing quality standards (HQS) which all units must meet before assistance can be paid on behalf of a family and at least annually throughout the term of the assisted tenancy.  HQS defines “standard housing” and establishes the minimum criteria necessary for the health and safety of program participants. 

Indoor Air Quality & Infestations

Lead

Lead paint poisoning affects over one million children today. If your property was built before 1978, it probably contains lead-based paint.  For more information on lead-based paint, please refer to HUD Federal Regulation 24 CFR Part 35 – Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention in Certain Residential Structures.

Mold

Molds are part of the natural environment, and can be found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold is not usually a problem, unless it begins growing indoors. The best way to control mold growth is to control moisture.  More information on mold.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs have long been a pest – feeding on blood, causing itchy bites and generally irritating their human hosts.  They are successful hitchhikers and can move from an infested site to furniture, bedding, baggage, boxes and clothing.  Although they typically feed on blood every five to ten days, bed bugs can be quite resilient, living for several months without feeding.

For more information, please contact the County of Los Angeles County of Public Health, West Office, 6053 Bristol Parkway, 2nd Floor, Culver City, CA  90230, M-F (310)665-8450 or theU.S. Environmental Protection Agency.