Housekeeping Standards

Q: WHAT ARE MY HOUSEKEEPING RESPONSIBILITIES AS A SECTION 8 PARTICIPANT?
A: The Section 8 Program Participant shall keep and maintain: The walls and ceilings of the residence clean and free of all dirt, grease, holes, cobwebs and fingerprints; The window and window ledges of the residence clean and free of all objects; The interior trim of the residence clean and free of all dirt, grease, gouges and scratches; The doors of the residence clean and free of all dirt, grease, holes, and finger prints; all doors shall be maintained with a working hardware and doorstop; The heating vents clean and free of all dirt, grease, cobwebs and fingerprints; the stove, and vent should also be kept clean and free of food and grease; All kitchen cabinets clean and neat. Cabinet surfaces, food storage areas and counter tops should be kept free of grease and spilled food.
Q: WHAT OTHER AREAS OF MY UNIT SHOULD I BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVERLOOK, SINCE THEY WILL ALSO BE INSPECTED?
A: It is important that your also keep the following in mind: Keep closets and other storage areas free of all clutter and trash; Make sure that all dishes are clean and safely stored when not in use; Maintain the refrigerator of the unit clean and free of spoiled food; defrost the freezer when necessary; Keep and maintain the bathroom exhaust fan –if any– free of dust and particles; Maintain a clean toilet and tank; also keep the tub and/or shower clean and free of mildew and mold.
Q: I HAVE NO SPARE ROOM IN MY CLOSETS, CAN I USE A SECTION OF MY UNIT FOR STORAGE?
A: You can use a part of your unit for storage purposes, as long as the stored articles are kept in containers which are arranged in an organized and safe manner, making sure that your unit is not being cluttered and littered with trash. You should be able to move through your unit and exits and escape routes must not be blocked