HUD Environmental Hazards and Site Assessment Flashcards

Which HUD regulation requires an environmental review before committing federal funds to a housing project?

Answer: 24 CFR Part 58 (Environmental Review Procedures)

24 CFR Part 58 establishes environmental review requirements that must be completed before HUD funds are committed, delegating review authority to Responsible Entities such as local governments.

What is a 'Phase I Environmental Site Assessment' (ESA) and when does HUD require one?

Answer: A review of historical records and site reconnaissance to identify recognized environmental conditions before HUD fund commitment

A Phase I ESA identifies recognized environmental conditions (RECs) such as underground storage tanks or prior industrial use through records review and site inspection, required by HUD for applicable projects.

Under HUD regulations, what does 'clearance testing' verify after lead hazard control work?

Answer: That dust lead levels on floors, window sills, and troughs meet HUD's post-work clearance standards

Clearance testing after lead hazard control work measures dust lead loading on floors, window sills, and window troughs to verify levels meet HUD's post-work standards before reoccupancy.

A HUD inspector finds visible black mold on bathroom walls and a strong musty odor. What is the appropriate action under HQS?

Answer: Document as a fail requiring remediation because mold is a health hazard under HQS

Visible mold is a health hazard and an HQS fail; the cause must be identified and remediated because mold indicates excessive moisture and can cause respiratory health problems.

Under HUD's Site and Neighborhood Standards, which condition would disqualify a site for assisted housing?

Answer: Location in an area with an unacceptable environmental health or safety hazard that cannot be mitigated

HUD's Site and Neighborhood Standards prohibit assisted housing in locations with unmitigable environmental health or safety hazards such as active contamination, severe air quality violations, or explosive risk.

What is 'interim controls' for lead hazards as defined under HUD's Lead Safe Housing Rule?

Answer: Temporary measures that reduce lead exposure while a permanent solution is developed

Interim controls are measures such as paint stabilization, specialized cleaning, and friction/impact surface treatment that temporarily reduce lead exposure pending a longer-term solution.