HUD Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield HUD facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Under UPCS, how is a missing window screen in a dwelling unit typically classified? → A Level 1 or Level 2 deficiency, typically minor
2. Under the HUD Manufactured Home Installation Program (MHIP), which entity sets minimum installation standards where states have no approved program? → HUD directly
3. What does HQS require regarding a unit's exterior doors? → Doors must be weather-tight, have working locks, and open and close properly
4. What federal program provides grants to states and local agencies to improve the energy efficiency of low-income households? → Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
5. According to HQS standards, the hot water heater in a HCV unit must have: → A pressure relief valve (T&P valve) and be properly vented
6. Which insulation R-value is typically required by HUD for attic insulation in most climate zones to meet current energy standards? → R-38 or higher
7. Why are trip hazards a concern during inspections? → They pose a risk of falls
8. What is the minimum window U-factor typically required for HUD-assisted new construction in a cold climate zone? → 0.35
9. Why must egress windows be inspected in sleeping areas? → To allow emergency escape
10. When documenting plumbing deficiencies in an HQS inspection report, which condition would be recorded as a 'fail'? → No hot water supply to the unit
11. Which document serves as the factory's certification that a manufactured home section was inspected and complies with HUD standards? → HUD Certification Label and Data Plate together
12. What energy modeling software is most commonly referenced for demonstrating compliance with the IECC performance path in HUD-assisted projects? → REScheck or COMcheck
13. According to HUD guidelines, what blood lead level (BLL) in a child under 6 triggers mandatory action under the Lead Safe Housing Rule? → 5 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL)
14. A HUD inspector observes standing water in a unit's basement and visible mold on the walls. Under HQS, this condition relates to which inspection category? → Interior Air Quality and Sanitary Conditions
15. Under HUD's Lead Safe Housing Rule, what lead dust wipe clearance standard applies to floors after lead hazard reduction activities? → 10 ug/ft2
16. Under HUD's energy standards, what efficiency rating must a new gas furnace meet to be installed in HUD-assisted housing? → 80% AFUE minimum
17. Which HUD program uses the Uniform Physical Condition Standards (UPCS) rather than HQS for property inspections? → Public Housing and multifamily insured properties
18. What is the maximum height of a threshold at an accessible primary entrance under Fair Housing design standards? → 3/4 inch
19. How should electrical systems be checked during inspection? → Check for outlet function and safety
20. What should an inspector do if lead-based paint is found in a pre-1978 unit? → Note it and recommend proper remediation
21. Which HUD standard governs the thermal insulation requirements for manufactured homes? → 24 CFR Part 3280.505
22. What is the minimum clear width required for accessible doorways under HUD's Fair Housing Design Manual? → 32 inches
23. Under UPCS, which of the following is an inspectable item in the 'Site' area? → Fencing and gates
24. Under HUD's Healthy Homes program, which of the following is considered a primary housing-based health hazard? → Excessive moisture leading to mold growth
25. When inspecting a HUD-assisted home, an inspector finds that the exterior foundation has large horizontal cracks. What does this most likely indicate? → Lateral soil pressure causing structural bowing or failure of the foundation wall
26. What is the minimum required ceiling height in the main living areas of a HUD-code manufactured home? → 7 feet
27. During a HUD accessibility inspection of a 1998 four-story apartment building with an elevator, which floors must have accessible units? → All floors served by the elevator
28. Under the Fair Housing Act, housing exclusively for persons 62 years of age or older qualifies as: → Exempt from familial status protections
29. What does the term 'covered multifamily dwelling' mean for Fair Housing Act design and construction requirements? → Buildings with four or more units built for first occupancy after March 13, 1991
30. Under HUD's Section 8 program, who is primarily responsible for maintaining the unit in compliance with HQS? → The owner/landlord