HUD Environmental Hazards and Site Assessment Flashcards

What radon level triggers HUD's recommendation for mitigation in housing receiving federal assistance?

Answer: 4 pCi/L or greater

HUD follows EPA guidance recommending radon mitigation when levels reach 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or more, which represents an elevated lung cancer risk.

Under HUD environmental review requirements, which federally protected resource requires a formal 8-step decision process before a project can proceed?

Answer: 100-year floodplains and wetlands

HUD's regulations under Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 require an 8-step decision process for projects in 100-year floodplains or affecting wetlands before funds can be committed.

What does the term 'RRPM' stand for in the context of HUD's lead-based paint regulations?

Answer: Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule maintained by EPA, which governs lead-safe work practices

The EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule requires lead-safe work practices for renovation work in pre-1978 homes; HUD's programs must coordinate compliance with RRP.

During a HUD environmental review, a project site is found to be within a Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) unit. What is the effect?

Answer: Federal flood insurance and most federal financial assistance are prohibited for new development in CBRS units

The Coastal Barrier Resources Act prohibits most federal financial assistance including flood insurance for new construction within designated CBRS units to protect coastal barriers from overdevelopment.

What HUD Healthy Homes principle addresses the risk posed by carbon monoxide sources such as attached garages and gas appliances?

Answer: Contaminant-free — keep homes free of harmful pollutants

HUD's Healthy Homes 'Contaminant-free' principle directly addresses carbon monoxide as a pollutant, along with lead, radon, and pesticides, that must be controlled to protect occupant health.

An inspector discovers that a HUD-assisted rental property was formerly used as a dry-cleaning facility. What environmental concern should trigger further investigation?

Answer: Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and other chlorinated solvent contamination of soil and groundwater

Dry-cleaning operations typically use tetrachloroethylene (PCE/PERC), a carcinogenic chlorinated solvent that commonly contaminates soil and groundwater at former dry-cleaning sites.