On November 15, HUD increased its fee limits for property inspections for single-family homes.  HUD requires federal mortgage holders to perform property inspections to determine “occupancy status, ascertain property condition and to maintain property preservation.” For example, according to the Mortgage Letter, the cost for an initial occupancy inspection increased from $20 to $30, with the cost per additional unit increased from $15 to $20, to “align with industry standards,” as found in the FHA Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing Sarah Edelman called this the “first step in updating our policies governing property and preservation fees,” and will help prevent blight from poorly maintained homes.