HUD Housing Quality Standards
These standards are used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure that rental properties are safe, decent, and sanitary. Even if your housing is not subsidized, this list gives you a strong baseline for what a habitable home should include.
Key Inspection Areas
1. Sanitary Facilities
- Working toilet with privacy
- Working shower or bathtub with hot and cold running water
- Working kitchen sink
- Proper drainage
2. Food Preparation & Refuse Disposal
- Stove/oven in working condition
- Refrigerator capable of maintaining safe temperatures
- Adequate trash receptacles and disposal methods
3. Space & Security
- Sufficient space for occupants (no overcrowding)
- Secure doors and windows with working locks
- Safe entry and exit (no blocked exits)
4. Thermal Environment
- Adequate heating capable of maintaining a safe temperature (not window units alone, except where climate allows)
- Proper ventilation (no excessive moisture or mold)
5. Illumination & Electricity
- Adequate natural or artificial lighting in each room
- Sufficient electrical outlets (no overloaded circuits, no exposed wiring)
- All switches and fixtures working
6. Structure & Materials
- No major structural defects (foundation, roof, walls)
- No peeling lead‑based paint (especially in pre‑1978 homes)
- Walls and ceilings free of holes or water damage
7. Indoor Air Quality
- No evidence of mold, mildew, or pests (rodents, insects)
- Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors where required
8. Accessibility & Site Conditions
- Safe entry and walkways (no trip hazards)
- Proper drainage away from the building
- No garbage or debris accumulation
What to Do If Your Unit Fails These Standards
Important: In Missoula, neither the City nor County provides code enforcement for private rental housing. Landlords are still legally required to maintain habitable premises under Montana law, but tenants must take action themselves.
- Notify your landlord in writing – use our repair request template. Keep copies and take photos.
- Follow up – if ignored, send a second letter stating that you may take further action (see below).
- Seek legal help – contact Montana Legal Services if repairs are serious or you face retaliation.
- Organize with neighbors – join or start a tenant union to build collective power.
- Consider small claims court – you may be able to sue for damages or to force repairs (get legal advice first).
If you receive housing assistance (Section 8, etc.), report the conditions to your caseworker – they can require repairs to maintain program compliance.
Full HUD inspection form (PDF): HUD‑52580‑A
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