UPCS Inspection Protocol Flashcards

In a REAC/UPCS inspection, what is the correct statement about scoring weights for inspectable areas?

Answer: Weights vary dynamically based on property size, unit count, and number of buildings

UPCS scoring weights are not fixed percentages—they are calculated dynamically based on property size, unit count, and the number of buildings inspected.

A UPCS inspector examines the HVAC system in a building's mechanical room. The system is operational but has a significant refrigerant leak evidenced by oil staining around the compressor. This deficiency falls under which inspectable area?

Answer: Building Systems

HVAC systems are classified under Building Systems in UPCS. Refrigerant leaks affect HVAC system functionality and constitute a deficiency in this inspectable area.

Under UPCS, what is an 'Exigent Health and Safety' (EHS) item?

Answer: A condition that poses an immediate threat to the health or safety of residents and requires notification within 24 hours

EHS items are UPCS Level 3 deficiencies that pose an immediate threat to health and safety, requiring the REAC inspector to notify the PHA/owner within 24 hours of inspection.

A REAC inspector finds that fire extinguishers in common areas have not been serviced for 18 months (annual service is required). How should this be classified?

Answer: A Level 2 or Level 3 deficiency because unmaintained extinguishers compromise fire safety

Unmaintained fire extinguishers are a UPCS deficiency. Severity depends on the extent—missing service tags or visible damage may reach Level 3 (severe fire safety hazard).

Under the UPCS scoring system, what happens to a property's score if the same deficiency is found in multiple units?

Answer: Each additional unit with the deficiency reduces the score further, up to a maximum cap per deficiency type

Under REAC's scoring algorithm, the same deficiency appearing in multiple units compounds the score reduction, though caps prevent any single deficiency from dominating the score.

Under UPCS, how is a missing window screen in a dwelling unit typically classified?

Answer: A Level 1 or Level 2 deficiency, typically minor

A missing window screen is typically a Level 1 (minor) or Level 2 (moderate) deficiency in UPCS. It is not life-threatening, but screens are inspectable items that contribute to habitability.