January’s Newsletter topic is about window screens. In a recent webinar, a QA from HUD stated, “Missing window screens are not a deficiency.” However, there are 2 NSPIRE Final Rules and the Window Standard itself that state quite the opposite. Because of this, there has been mass confusion throughout the nation. The bottom line is that missing window screens are absolutely a deficiency until HUD releases a statement to the contrary. Remember…if it didn’t happen in writing, it didn’t happen at all!
Window Standard
Please note the highlighted areas that pertain to missing and damaged window screens. Window screens are a component of a window and reduce the chance that bugs, birds, leaves, etc will enter a unit. If this reference is not convincing enough…read on!
NSPIRE Final Rule: Inspection Standards Supplemental Notice
HUD’s direct response to the commenter is clear that missing window screens are a deficiency as long as there is evidence a screen used to be there.
Which windows typically do NOT have evidence that a screen was ever installed?
- Many casement windows (crank-type)
- Sash windows (very old windows that operate on a rope or chain)
- Many louvered windows.
NSPIRE Final Rule: Inspection Standards Supplemental Notice
In this Rule, HUD is crystal clear that missing window screens are not only a deficiency, but that HUD considers missing window screens very serious because they allegedly reduce air pollution:
Whether or not window screens reduce air pollution, they most definitely keep bugs, birds, and debris out of the unit. I was just in San Francisco and a resident complained that she couldn’t open her window for ventilation because pigeons kept coming into her unit!
The bottom line is that it doesn’t matter what a representative from HUD says because they are human and can make mistakes. The only thing that matters is what is in writing! Until specifically stated otherwise, consider missing window screens a deficiency.
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