Health impact assessment of affordable housing inspections in Ohio

Housing quality has been associated with health impacts. This research explores the potential effects of policies governing the type and frequency of affordable housing physical inspections and the potential impact on the prevalence of respiratory disease, injury and mental health using a health impact assessment approach. First, a comprehensive literature review of the evidence for specific housing characteristics and health impacts was conducted. Next, a quantitative review of property inspection documents was conducted on a sample of affordable housing properties in Ohio (n=2,823) between 2007 and 2011 in order to describe the scope of the housing-related health issues. Using the most recent housing inspection (from the past three years), a standardized rating sheet was used to describe the property issues relevant to health outcomes, including indoor and outdoor areas of units and properties. The resulting sample (n=375) reflects the proportional distribution of affordable properties based on 2010 data. Results indicate that plumbing and appliance related violations were most commonly identified (36.5% and 44.1% of properties surveyed, respectively), with approximately 25% of properties citing fire, pest, and mold violations. From a case study of properties subject to multiple inspections from state and federal agencies, health-related violations persisted on properties. Discussion will include the impacts of the adoption of a universal inspection format and changes to the frequency of inspections, along with preliminary health impact assessment recommendations.