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IPIA/ SAA Monitoring

Monitoring the Production Inspection Primary Inspection Agencies for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

The Production Inspection Primary Inspection Agencies (IPIA) Monitoring Contractor, IBTS, observes the performance of third party inspection agencies that perform in-plant inspections of each home under construction. This assists HUD in evaluating the agency's performance, and determining whether or not to allow it to remain certified to participate in the program as a third party inspection entity. It also evaluates manufacturing facilities' quality control procedures, to ensure that the IPIA is determining the system is functioning and results in conforming homes.

In addition, IBTS has responsibility for the accounting of "label fees" as collected and distributed by the Department, and the printing and distribution of certification labels. Click here for more information about label verification.

Brief Outline of Services Provided

  • Conducts in-plant audits to assess the performance of the third party inspection agency personnel
  • Provides analysis of audit data to HUD
  • Conduct assessment audits at IPIA headquarters
  • Utilize state personnel to assist in monitoring activities
  • Performs an annual IPIA Performance Review (IPR) for each agency
  • Tracks and reports mailing and shipment of labels
  • Track use of HUD labels by manufacturers using WebLabel system
  • Receives label fee payment records
  • Handles scheduling of activities and provides reports to HUD
  • Conducts special investigations and studies
  • Conducts site verifications of alternative construction
  • Coordinate IBTS activities with the DAPIA Monitoring and the SAA functions
  • Follows up on in-plant findings at retailer lot locations and/or consumer sites
  • Responds to inquiries from IPIAs and manufacturers
  • Provides technical support at IPIA administrative hearings or legal proceedings
  • Provides the services of a regulatory specialist and editor
  • Attends workshops and provides technical support
  • Provides administrative support to the PIA Committee