Note from the Chief HCV Officer, Cheryl L. Burns
What do you think about Owner News as a monthly e-newsletter? We hope you are enjoying the new format and find the information useful as you navigate the ins and outs of the HCV Program. Each issue includes a short how-to, an answer to a common question and a timely program reminder ... plus links to news you may have missed and helpful resources.
How to Request an Inspection Extension on the HCV Owner Portal
Did you know there are instances in which CHA may grant an extension to make certain repairs following a failed inspection?

There are two types of inspection extensions: Weather-Related Extensions (granted only for inspections that are conducted November – February when the weather prevents property owners from correcting certain external violations) and Non-Weather Related Extensions (granted when extraordinary circumstances exist that prevent property owners from completing the repair, including difficulty receiving parts or a delay by the utility provider).

Extension requests can be submitted directly on the HCV Owner Portal using the Inspection Extension Request form. It's easy:

  1. Click on RESOURCES in the menu bar. Under the ‘Inspection Forms’ column, click on ‘Inspection Extension Request’ to download the form (fillable PDF).
  2. Complete the form in its entirety and save it on your device.
  3. Hover over the MY ACCOUNT menu, and click on ‘Document Center’.
  4. Select the appropriate vendor account, list the tenant name/affiliated voucher number (if applicable) and select ‘Inspection Extension Request’ from the drop down.
  5. Attach your request form and include any notes relevant to your submission.
  6. Click the ‘Submit’ button to finish. The form will be sent directly to the Inspections Department.

CHA will respond in writing with either an approval or denial within five (5) business days. If denied, the property owner has 30 days from the date that the inspection occurred to correct the problem or CHA will abate the HAP.

Note: Inspection extensions do not apply to emergency deficiencies. Emergency deficiencies must be repaired within 24 hours.
FAQ Corner: Winter Preparation
Property owners often ask ... “How do I make sure my property is winter-ready?” 
The frigid temperatures of a Chicago winter can cause damage to your property, so it's important that you're ready before the cold weather arrives. Listed below are a few steps you can follow to make sure your tenants are safe AND your property is prepared.

Check the Heat
The Department of Buildings enforces the Chicago Building Code. This includes the Chicago Heat Ordinance, which mandates that, during cold weather months, property owners/ managers must supply heat to rental units or to any unit where tenants do not have individual control of the heat.

From September 15 – June 1, the temperature inside a rental residence is required to be at least 68 degrees from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and at least 66 degrees from 10:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.

A property owner/manager can face fines up to $500 per day, per violation for each day they do not supply adequate heat. The reason for the lack of heat does not matter. Property owners/managers must follow the law and residences must be heated regardless.

Install Insulation
Insulating your property can create a warmer home for your tenants and help reduce utility bills. Attics, walls and floors adjacent to an unheated space (i.e., garage, basement) are drafty spaces that can benefit from insulation.

Have Your Roof Inspected
Make sure your roof is in good shape for winter storms. Missing, loose or damaged shingles can lead to water leaks and costly repairs. Having your roof inspected prior to winter can help prevent issues down the road.

Trim Tree Branches
Snow can weigh down tree branches and cause them to break. Trimming any overhanging branches can help prevent damage to the exterior of your property.

Check Weather Stripping
Weather stripping plays a significant role in preventing cool air from entering your home and should be replaced every few years. Check weather stripping around doors and windows. Replace any material that looks worn out.

Schedule an Energy Assessment
An energy assessment can reduce utility bills and identify better ways to manage energy use. Contact your local electricity or gas utility company to learn more.
Reminder: HCV Tax Savings Program Applications Due Today!
Have you completed your HCV Tax Savings Program Application yet? If not, act fast! Applications are due today!

More information about the HCV Tax Savings Program is available on the CHA website here, including a link to download the application. Once complete, the application must be notarized and mailed to the CHA address listed on the first page (mail the original and keep a copy for your records). Applications are not accepted by email or fax.
Emergency Re-Inspections
If a unit fails a regular, complaint or quality control inspection for an emergency HQS fail item, a re-inspection will be scheduled within 24 hours of the original inspection. If emergency deficiencies remain unresolved after the re-inspection, abatement of the HAP may occur (for deficiencies that are the responsibility of the property owner).

Examples of emergency deficiencies include:
  • Major plumbing leaks, a water-logged ceiling or a floor in imminent danger of falling
  • Natural or propane gas leaks or fuel oil leaks
  • Any electrical problem or condition that could result in shock or fire
  • Utilities (i.e., gas, water or electric) not in service
  • Conditions that present the imminent likelihood of injury

For a full list of emergency HQS fail items, please reference pages 24-25 of the HQS Inspection Guidebook.
Tips to Help Prevent Water Damage
Water damage can have a major impact on the structure of your property. Here are a few steps to help keep your property water-free.

Install Drainage — Proper drainage can help drain water away from your property helping prevent damage. If water doesn't drain away from your property, it can seep into the foundation which can lead to leaks and significant damage.

Schedule an Inspection — Inspectors can help identify early signs of water damage including leaks, discoloration or moisture buildup.

Install a Sump Pump — If your property has a basement, consider installing in a sump pump. Sump pumps are typically installed in the lowest part of the basement as they are designed to be submerged in water. Sump pumps can sense escalating water levels or pressure, and will automatically turn on to pump water away from your property through a discharge line.

Have an Emergency Response Plan — Talk to your tenants about what to do in emergency situations. Make sure they know how to shut off utilities and encourage them to have a plan of action in the event of flooding.

Regularly Clean Gutters — Gutters are meant to lead water off your roof, down a spout and away from the property. When gutters become clogged, they may lead water to your roofline instead.
Upcoming Events
Practical Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Unwanted Visitors
Tuesday, February 6, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Register Now
Plagued by pests? Join us for a session on how to safely and effectively prevent and remove invasive bugs, rodents and other pests. We’ll review common pest problems, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), chemical safety, and preventative measures to keep you pest free.
Resources for Property Owners
HCV Webinars are available on-demand! Dozens of recorded sessions are available for you to watch anytime, including Getting Started with the HCV Program, How to Complete Common CHA Forms and Packets,  Energy Efficiency and Utility Assistance and many, many more! 
We want to hear from you! Especially if you’ve never attended one of our educational sessions before ... please take a minute to share what you'd like to see from HCV education and events.
Have leasing-related questions, or want to request a 1:1 consultation? The HCV Owner Outreach team is here to help. Email owneroutreach@thecha.org.
¡También ofrecemos estos servicios en español!
Bookmark some of our other favorite online resources
  • Affordability Calculator (for non-Mobility area units): chahcvportal.org under the MOVES menu.
  • Check your inspection appointments and results: chainspections.org
  • Search the interactive Mobility Area Map: thecha.org/mobility and scroll to the bottom.
  • Add comparable units to CHA's rent reasonableness database: AffordableHousing.com (free account required), log in and click COMPARABLES in the left-hand menu.
  • View/download HAP Statements or submit a rent increase request: chahcvportal.org under the FINANCE menu.
Thanks for Reading
We appreciate your continued partnership! If you liked this newsletter, or have topic suggestions for newsletter articles or webinars, reply to this email and let us know.

Looking for past editions of Owner News? Find them on the HCV Owner Portal at chahcvportal.org, under RESOURCES.