Multi-Family Property Inspection Scores

On June 18, 2013, the City Council approved an amendment to the Uniform Housing Code Chapter of the Code of the City of Arlington. A new property inspection protocol and scoring methodology was adopted, along with the adoption of a Risk Rating Scoring System for apartment communities and extended stay properties.

The property inspection protocol and scoring methodology is based upon the following:

  • The utilization of a hybrid inspection and scoring system that utilizes some of the current Annual Property Inspection (API) deficiencies in combination with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Uniform Physical Conditions Standards and scoring methodology. The utilization of this hybrid inspection and scoring system, into a single inspection checklist, provides for an accurate, proportionate, objective and equitable property score.

The interactive map below shows locations of Arlington multi-family communities and the name and contact information of each assigned Code Compliance officer. The annual inspection score and property rating is also provided for each community. Inspection scores can range from 0 to 100 points.

Risk Rating Scoring Protocol (for Multi-Family Complexes)

The Risk Rating Scoring System integrates the multi-family apartment property scores, into a tiered rating system, with the desired outcome of improving property conditions by:

  • Assigning a specific set of inspection and compliance criteria for each rating category, and
  • Providing for a standardized template which will identify and focus code inspection activities towards sub-performing properties 

Multi-Family Property Performance Ratings

Rating - Standard 1 (Well Above Average)

  • Annual inspection risk rating assessment
  • Risk level score of 90 or higher
  • Inspection of only: Property site; Exterior; Common Areas; Draft Stops; Fire Protection
  • Non-compliance may result in Civil/Criminal fines

Rating - Standard 2 (Above Average)

  • Annual inspection and risk rating assessment
  • Risk level score of 80, but <90 (less than 90)
  • Inspection of only: Property site; Exterior; Common Areas; Draft Stops; Fire Protection
  • Inspect 1% of total units
  • Non-compliance may result in Civil/Criminal fines

Rating - Standard 3 (Average)

  • Annual inspection and risk rating assessment
  • Risk level score of 70, but <80 (less than 80)
  • Inspect all areas
  • Inspect 5% of total units
  • Non-compliance re-inspection fees (per unit) charged after initial inspection
  • Possible Civil /Criminal fines

Rating - Standard 4 (Below Average)

  • Annual inspection and risk rating assessment
  • Risk level score of <70 (less than 70)
  • Inspect all areas
  • Inspect 100% of total units
  • Possible Civil/Criminal penalties
  • Non-compliance may result in probation/revocation of license
  • Consider referral to Dangerous and Substandard Structures (DSS) / Nuisance Abatement Team (NAT)
  • Consider Chapter 54, Municipal Court Injunctive Lawsuit
  • Owner and mortgage company notified of risk rating score and deficiencies
  • Non-compliance re-inspection fees (per unit) charged after initial inspectio

For questions regarding permitting of work to be performed, contact Building Inspections at ArlingtonPermits.com or see the Contact Us list or the Planning & Development Services Frequently Used Numbers website. Visit in person at 101 W. Abram Street, City Hall, Second Floor, Arlington, Texas 76010, or by calling 817-459-6502.

For additional information regarding the Multi-Family Inspection program, contact Field Operations Manager Doug Stewart at 817-459-5980.

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