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USAID/CAR

HOUSING

MANUAL

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#   {#section-2 .unnumbered}

# Table of Contents

Table of Contents [2](#table-of-contents)

Introduction [3](#introduction)

How Your Home Was Chosen for You [4](#how-your-home-was-chosen-for-you)

The USAID/CAR Housing Assignment [4](#the-usaidcar-housing-assignment)

The Size of Your Residence [4](#the-size-of-your-residence)

General Guidelines [6](#general-guidelines)

Saunas and Dipping Pools [7](#saunas-and-dipping-pools)

Moving In [8](#moving-in)

Hospitality Kits [8](#hospitality-kits)

Check-In Inspection [9](#check-in-inspection)

Basic Initial Furnishings [10](#basic-initial-furnishings)

Your Responsibilities as an Occupant
[13](#your-responsibilities-as-an-occupant)

The GSO\'s Responsibility to You [19](#the-gsos-responsibility-to-you)

When You Need to Call the GSO [22](#when-you-need-to-call-the-gso)

Departing From Post [23](#departing-from-post)

Pre-Departure Checklist [24](#pre-departure-checklist)

Index [26](#index)

APPENDIX A: Residential Security and Fire Safety Procedures
[27](#appendix-a-residential-security-and-fire-safety-procedures)

Residential Security [27](#residential-security)

Fire Safety [27](#fire-safety)

APPENDIX B: Changing Your Housing Assignment
[29](#appendix-b-changing-your-housing-assignment)

APPENDIX C: Lead Poisoning Prevention Tips
[31](#appendix-c-lead-poisoning-prevention-tips)

ATTACHMENT: Statement of Acceptance
[33](#attachment-statement-of-acceptance)

# Introduction

Welcome to USAID/Central Asian Republics! The top priority of the
USAID/CAR Housing Program is to provide you and your family with a
comfortable and secure home. Your residence has been selected to match
in size and furnishings the type of home a typical family would occupy
in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. In choosing your residence,
the USAID/CAR Executive Officer and Deputy Mission Director had to
consider several factors. These included budgetary constraints and the
types of properties available locally. Every effort has been made to
ensure that your Central Asian home meets your personal and professional
needs.

The section immediately following this one explains how your residence
was selected for you and the particular guidelines used in making this
decision. Other sections of this handbook describe procedures used to
move in and depart post. The appendixes, which conclude this manual,
offer additional information about fire-safety and security procedures
as well as policies regarding changing your housing assignment.

This housing manual and policies contained within it apply to all USAID
U.S. direct hires (USDH), employees working under a PASA, and
offshore-hire Third Country Nationals (TCNs) and U.S. Personal Services
Contractors (USPSCs). If you work under a PASA, procedures, such as
funding for services and its associated paperwork, may follow different
channels. Your rights and obligations as outlined in this Manual,
however, are the same as for all USAID/CAR direct-hire and offshore TCN
and USPSC employees.

If you cannot find an adequate answer located within these pages, please
feel free to consult with USAID\'s Executive Officer or GSO.

Glenn Anders

> Mission Director

USAID/CAR

# How Your Home Was Chosen for You

The GSO, which functions under the USAID/CAR\'s EXO, is charged with
leasing and managing all USAID residences. The GSO updates its available
housing list on a regular basis and provides current information on the
local market to the Executive Officer and the Deputy Mission Director.
The Executive Officer assigns adequate permanent residences for all
employees and their families before they arrive in country. Once a
housing assignment has been made, the GSO prepares the residence,
ensuring it is clean and ready when the employee and his/her family
arrive at post.

When repairs need to be made to a current USAID property and/or a newly
leased residence is not ready for occupancy, employees and new arrivals
are placed in temporary housing or at a local hotel. These quarters are
supplied at USAID expense, and the employees\' stay is as short as
possible. Should you and your family be placed in temporary housing,
USAID will facilitate your move into your permanent home.

## The USAID/CAR Housing Assignment

The Executive Officer and Deputy Mission Director assign all USAID/CAR
residences, except the Mission Director\'s, from a pool of existing
properties.

The Executive Officer and the Deputy Mission Director are charged with
implementing housing policies that comply with those found in 6 FAM 700,
ADS 534 and 535, and the Standardized Regulations. Their
responsibilities include reviewing the current list of properties in
USAID\'s housing pool and assigning housing as needed; reviewing and
adjudicating appeals of housing assignments raised by personnel; and
making recommendations to amend housing policy.

## The Size of Your Residence

The type of residence USAID employees and their families receive is
based on the employee\'s rank or grade of position, the number of family
members living at post for more than 50 percent of the year, and the
availability of housing at the time of arrival. An employee\'s rank or
grade falls into one of three categories: Executive, Middle, or
Standard. (The following table delineates those categories.)

In some cases, a USAID employee may be assigned to a position above or
below his/her rank. The rank of the position determines the employee\'s
maximum space authorization. Promotion during an employee\'s tour of
duty does not justify changing an assigned residence. In making housing
assignments, however, the Executive Officer will consider the special
needs of employees and family members, such as physical handicaps or
health requirements.

***Table 1***

+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| **RANK**              | **FS**                | **GM/GS**             |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| **EXECUTIVE**         | **SFS**               | **SES**               |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       |                       | **GS16-18**           |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| **MIDDLE**            | **FS1**               | **GM/GS15**           |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS2**               | **GM/GS14**           |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       |                       | **GM/GS13**           |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| **STANDARD**          | **FS3**               | **GS12**              |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS4**               | **GS10-11**           |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS5-6**             | **GS8-9**             |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS7**               | **GS7**               |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS8**               | **GS6**               |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       | **FS9**               | **GS5**               |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       |                       | **GS4**               |
|                       |                       |                       |
|                       |                       | **GS1-3**             |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+

*Employee ranks/grades that constitute Standard, Middle, and*

*Executive housing categories.*

After rank or grade, family size determines the maximum amount of space
that can be allotted. The housing assignment also takes into
consideration age and sex of the family members who will be residing at
post (see \"Allocation of Bedrooms\" below).

A final consideration that affects the size of residences in Central
Asia is the post\'s locality rating. In accordance with departmental
guidelines (DS Airgram A-171), posts throughout the world are placed in
one of three categories: Locality Type 1, 2, or 3. The quality of life
at each post is an integral part of determining its locality rating.

USAID/CAR/Almaty and all satellite posts earn type 3 rating; they tend
to be less secure, more isolated, or offer fewer recreational and
cultural activities. As a result, employees and their families are
likely to spend more time in their homes. For people at these posts, the
Foreign Building Office permits residences with greater total square
footage than at posts that rate a type 1.

The following table outlines the maximum square footage allowed at all
Central Asian posts. (The finished measurement of a house, in square
feet, excludes hallways, entrance foyers, stairwells, landings, laundry
or utility rooms, built-in closets, garages, unfinished attics or
basements, and servants quarters).

***Table 2***

##### Airgram A-171 

+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+
| **\# OF OCCUPANTS**    | **1-2**  | **3-4** | **5-6**  | **7+**    |
+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+
| **RANK/GRADE**         |          |         |          |           |
+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+
| **EXECUTIVE**          | **2057** | *       | **2983** | **3137**  |
|                        |          | *2597** |          |           |
|                        | **(191   |         | *        | **(291)** |
|                        | sqm)**   | **      | *(277)** |           |
|                        |          | (241)** |          |           |
+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+
| **MIDDLE**             | **1568** | *       | **2648** | **2803**  |
|                        |          | *2263** |          |           |
|                        | *        |         | *        | **(260)** |
|                        | *(146)** | **      | *(246)** |           |
|                        |          | (210)** |          |           |
+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+
| **STANDARD**           | **1414** | *       | **2391** | **2546**  |
|                        |          | *2057** |          |           |
|                        | *        |         | *        | **(237)** |
|                        | *(131)** | **      | *(222)** |           |
|                        |          | (191)** |          |           |
+------------------------+----------+---------+----------+-----------+

*Maximum space authorizations (in total square footage), based on the
employee\'s*

*Rank/grade and number of authorized family members residing at post.*

## General Guidelines

In determining appropriate housing assignments, the following general
guidelines also apply:

**Tandem Employees:** Tandem employees assigned to the same post receive
the space authorization for the senior member of the couple. The
couple\'s respective parent agencies share equally all costs related to
the housing.

**Official Eligible Family Members (EFM):** If one or more family member
lives away from post more than 50 percent of the year, that family is
entitled to a partial increase in living space. The maximum space
authorization is increased by 100 square feet for every two EFM residing
away from post, 200 square feet for every four, and so on. When an
employee/parent is single and has no other family at post, the Executive
Officer and/or Deputy Mission Director may choose to authorize space for
a family of three in lieu of this allocation for the first two residing
away from post.

**Employee with Family Members on a Separate Maintenance Allowance
(SMA):**

Family members on SMA are not considered in determining space
authorization.

**Children of Separated Parents:** When an employee shares legal custody
of a child or children from a previous marriage and it is anticipated
that the child or children will visit frequently, the maximum
authorization is increased as described in the paragraph above, titled
\"Official Eligible Family Members\".

**Single Parents or Families with a Live-in Housekeeper:** USAID has no
obligation to provide housing for the household staff of an employee.
The Executive Officer and/or Deputy Mission Director may give preference
to single parents and other families requiring such space, if
appropriate quarters are available in the existing pool.

**Allocation of Bedrooms:** The specific guidelines regarding the
allocation of bedrooms for children living at post are as follows:

-   No child should share his/her parent\'s bedroom.

-   No child over 6 years of age should share a bedroom with a child of
    the opposite sex.

-   Family members over 10 years of age should have separate bedrooms.

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-   No child should share a bedroom with an infant under the age of 2.

Some employees and their families may be assigned to houses with more
space or bedrooms than is normally authorized. For the convenience of
USAID\'s EXO/GSO, a larger residence may be assigned if it is available
at that time. Residences with the same square footage can be vastly
different because of their layout, with some being more appropriate for
certain family sizes than others.

# Saunas and Dipping Pools

Given that most houses in this region come with a sauna and dipping
pool, USAID/CAR has no choice in most instances other than to accept
houses with such facilities.

Finally, when assigning residences, the Executive Officer and/or Deputy
Mission Director strives to make optimal use of its existing pool of
leased quarters. USAID/CAR tries to lease homes in the same general
price range, however other factors also play a part, including location,
structural soundness, security consideration and comfort.

# Moving In

Prior to your arrival, your sponsor and the GSO staff inspected your
assigned residence to make sure it was painted, properly cleaned, and
the basic furnishings and appliances were in good working order. All
rugs, furnishings, and equipment were cleaned or reconditioned, as
necessary. If you feel this has not been done adequately, please contact
the General Services Officer as soon as possible.

Those assigned to temporary quarters until a permanent residence is
ready will find their temporary apartment clean, with all appliances
functioning correctly. It is your responsibility to leave the temporary
residence in the same condition.

## Hospitality Kits

To help ease the transition into your new home until your \"air
freight\" arrives, the GSO has placed a hospitality kit in the
residence. Although it is not a complete housekeeping kit, it does
provide basic linens and kitchen items (see the list below). Specific
quantities of items in the kit may vary, depending on family size and
availability.

Please take good care of your hospitality kit and double-check the
inventory provided. You will be responsible for the cleaning or
laundering and returning of all the items listed there [within five
working days]{.underline} after receipt of your air freight. Although
normal wear and tear is expected, you will be billed for major damages
or shortages of property, as determined by the GSO.

To return the hospitality kit, request pickup by the GSO via e-mail,
telephone, or through a written request sent to the USAID Work Order
system.

***Hospitality Kit Items***

Ironing board with iron

Rib apron

[Kitchen]{.underline}

Dinner plates, bread plates, cereal bowls, vegetable bowl, coffee cups,
saucers

Dinner forks, salad forks, teaspoons, dessert spoons, soup spoons,
dinner knives

Bowls, vegetable serving, oval platter

Sugar spoon, serving fork, 2 serving spoons

Water and juice glasses

Sugar bowl and creamer

Salt and pepper shakers

Butter dish with cover

Pan (3qt.), pan (2qt.), skillet (10\"), dutch oven with lid

Steamer basket

Measuring cup and measuring spoons

Mixing bowls, pyrex pans

Cutting board

Dish drainer with cutlery tray

Food containers with lids

Pitcher

Wooden spoons, whisk, large spatula, salad fork, plastic spoon, slotted
spoon

Bottle opener/corkscrew, can opener, peeler

Knives

Calender

Coffee maker (non-electric and electric)

Tea kettle

Toaster

Hot pads

Jar and bottle opener

Dish cloths, kitchen towels, table cloth

[Bathroom]{.underline}

Bath towels, hand towels, wash cloths

Bath mat

Shower curtain (where necessary)

[Bedroom]{.underline}

Queen fitted and flat sheets, blanket, bedspread, pillowcases

Twin fitted and flat sheets, blanket, bedspread, pillowcase

Hangers

[Miscellaneous]{.underline}

Bowl and tub brush, broom w/dustpan, scrubber, scissors, wastebasket

Ashtrays

Flashlight with battery, hammer, and screwdrivers

The quantity of pieces in the Hospitality Kit will be determined by the
size of family and availability.

## Check-In Inspection

After you have moved into your permanently assigned residence, the
Property Management Supervisor will arrange a mutually convenient time
to inspect the furniture, furnishings, and appliances within the house.
The USAID employee will be asked to sign an inventory statement within
30 days of that meeting. That signature will acknowledge receipt of the
inventory and the condition of all items. The employee will be held
responsible for any breakage and loss of the furnishings and appliances
(beyond normal wear and tear). When departing the post, take special
care to see that the inventory is accurate. Throughout your tour, you
should keep copies of all inventory turn-ins and issuance; the GSO will
also note all changes to the inventory.

Examine the condition of the residence, and note any discrepancies,
because you will be asked to sign a Statement of Acceptance for your
permanent residence (see the attachment at the back of this handbook).
Once signed, this form acknowledges your agreement to maintain the
property and protect it against damages for the duration of your tour.

At the time of your check-in inspection, the GSO representative will
answer any questions you may have. He/she will also explain how to
operate and maintain your residence\'s smoke detectors, electrical and
heating systems, and water heater. You will also receive a statement
showing the total square footage of garden space at your residence (if
applicable).

## Basic Initial Furnishings

The following list details the authorized furnishings USAID/CAR provides
in a typical home. Please note that the variety as well as the amount of
furniture in a given home may vary, depending on the size of the
residence and the number of occupants.

[Foyer]{.underline}

1 Chest

1 Wardrobe

1 Mirror

[Living Room]{.underline}

1 Sofa

1 Loveseat

4 Occasional chairs

2 Bookcases

1 Floor lamp

2 Table lamps

1 Cocktail table

2 End tables

1 Corner table

[Dining Room]{.underline}

1 Dining room table with 2 leaves

2 Arm chairs

6 Side chairs

1 China cabinet

1 Credenza

1 Server

[Master Bedroom]{.underline}

1 set Queen bed (headboard, bed frame, mattress and bedspring)

2 Night stands

1 Dresser

1 Chest

1 Mirror

1 Floor lamp

2 Table lamps

1 Wardrobe, large, or 2 small (if no closet)

1 Carpet (9 x 12)

1 Chair, boudoir

[Guest Bedroom]{.underline}

2 sets Twin beds (headboard, bed frames, mattresses, and bedsprings)

2 Night stands

1 Dresser

1 Chest

1 Mirror

2 Table lamps

1 Wardrobe, large, or 2 small (if no closet)

1 Chair, boudoir

[Other (as requested)]{.underline}

1 Writing desk / computer table

1 Desk chair

2 Rattan chairs

1 Rattan table

1 Sofa

1 Sofa table

2 End tables

1 Cocktail table

1 Floor lamp

1 Table lamp

1 set Patio furniture (one table, four chairs)

[Appliances and Equipment]{.underline}

1 Cooking range (gas or electric)

1 Refrigerator

1 Microwave

1 Washing machine

1 Dryer

2+ Smoke detectors (based on residence size)

2 Fire extinguishers (based on residence size)

5 Transformers, or voltage regulators (or combination of both)

1 Freezer (upon request)

[Miscellaneous]{.underline}

1 Water distiller

1 Vacuum cleaner

Air-conditioners (living room and each occupied bedroom, as needed)

> Ceiling fans (upon request, in rooms without an air-conditioner)

Floor fans (upon request)

Humidifiers (each occupied bedroom, upon request)

2 sets Exterior door keys

1 Step ladder

1 Full size ladder

> Area rugs (living room and each occupied bedroom, as needed; in lieu
> of wall-to-wall carpeting)

Note: surplus furniture can be issued subject to availability.

# Your Responsibilities as an Occupant

All USAID/CAR residences are leased properties. An official
representative of the U.S. Government signed the lease to your home.
Therefore, the U.S. Government is the legal tenant of the property. You,
as an occupant, must use only official channels to communicate with the
landlord. That is, to make requests or ask questions of the landlord,
you must [first contact USAID\'s GSO or EXO]{.underline}.

If you hire a gardener or domestic help, please ensure that each of your
employees understands how to operate appliances safely and properly, as
well as how to maintain them after each use. Household cleaning supplies
may vary from the types you would use in the United States. Please make
sure they are appropriate for your intended use.

The next section, titled \"GSO\'s Responsibilities to You,\" outlines in
detail what to do in the event routine or emergency repairs are
required. It also describes the services for which the GSO is authorized
to assist you. The following list provides helpful tips and explains
what you need to do to keep your residence in working order. As always,
if you have a question about your responsibilities, contact GSO at your
earliest convenience.

**Air Conditioners/Heaters:** It is your responsibility to check and
clean the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) filters
regularly. Filters should be cleaned at least once every month by
vacuuming or washing. If you are not sure how to clean or where to
locate these filters, please contact the GSO. The repair of a neglect
air conditioner or heater, like all other USAID-supplied appliances,
will be charged back to you.

**Alterations to a Residence:** Employees, family members, domestic
help, and friends are not permitted to make any alterations to a USAID
property. Alterations are changes, such as removing trees or bushes,
erecting a partition to divide rooms, closing up or cutting new doors or
windows, or causing abnormal costs or strain on the existing structure
or utilities. You must obtain prior written approval from the landlord
of your property, [through the GSO]{.underline}, before painting any
surface or adding or removing stationary items, such as towel racks,
light fixtures, or wall cabinets. Any restoration charges will be billed
to you at the close of your tour.

**Care of Furniture and Furnishings:** Wood and tiled surfaces should be
polished or washed regularly, and rugs and upholstered furniture should
be vacuumed often to prevent ground-in dirt and dust. Carpeting and rugs
should be professionally cleaned periodically during your tour. Contact
the GSO for information on local carpet cleaning companies.

You are responsible for any damage, caused by negligence to
USAID-supplied appliances, furniture, and furnishings. Contact the GSO
immediately when any piece of property is damaged or broken. The GSO
will arrange for repairs and will bill you directly.

**Fire Extinguishers:** USAID/CAR supplies each of its residences with
at least one fire extinguisher. It should be kept in the kitchen near an
exit. A second fire extinguisher will be added to the basic inventory
during FY 2001; this should be located in the bedroom area near the fire
escape. Employees, family members, and domestic help should know where
the fire extinguishers are located and become familiar with their
operation. Shortly after arriving at your new residence, a GSO
representative will demonstrate how to use it. The GSO will test your
fire extinguisher annually to make certain it is working properly. If it
is missing or has been activated, contact the GSO immediately. (See
Appendix A for detailed fire-safety procedures.)

**Gate and Garage-Door Remote Controls:** Some USAID houses come
equipped with remote-control devices for electronic gates and/or garage
doors. If necessary, a GSO representative will explain how to use these
devices at the time of your check-in inspection. You should also know
how to operate your gate and/or garage door manually, in case of
breakdown or a power outage. If your remote control does not work
properly, you may need to replace its battery. Local hardware stores
have replacement batteries you can purchase.

**Hobbies:** You are encouraged to pursue the quiet enjoyment of your
hobbies, as long as they don\'t cause an abnormal strain or overload on
the grounds, structures, or utilities of your residence. At the same
time, they should not result it increased operating or maintenance cost
to USAID/CAR.

Concern for your neighbors\' privacy and well-being is also important.
Please use discretion concerning the times you choose to work with loud
machinery, such as carpentry equipment and motorcycle or automobile
engines. Radios, televisions, and stereos should be played at a moderate
level, especially in multiple-residence units.

**House Guests and House Sitters:** USAID employees are expected to be
at home when house guests are visiting and must assume all
responsibility for damage to property that may occur during that time.

**Household Inventory:** As noted in the section, titled \"Moving In\"
and \"Departing From Post,\" inventories will be made of your
USAID-supplied property. You will be responsible for all items listed.
Therefore, keep copies of the updated inventory record.

Employees and family members are not permitted to make exchanges or
transfers of equipment between residences. In addition, no residential
furniture, such as lamps or corner tables, should be taken from the
residence to the office. If you wish to exchange or move property,
inform the GSO. If the request is approved, the GSO will provide the
appropriate documentation and move the property for you.

Please note that bar-code labels have been affixed to all USAID property
to facilitate computerized inventory. [Please do not remove the bar-code
labels]{.underline}.

**Lawn and Gardens:** It is your duty to maintain the exterior grounds
of your property, including walkways, driveways, gardens, and lawns.
Proper maintenance entails mowing lawns, trimming hedges, cleaning away
rubbish, controlling weeds and insects, and sweeping, washing, and
clearing walkways, driveways, terraces, and balconies. No shrubs or
trees should be removed without prior written approval from the
landlord, through the GSO.

USAID/CAR is responsible for lawn and garden maintenance only at the
USAID Mission Director\'s residence and all houses awaiting occupancy.
If your job or vacation plans take you away from your property for
extended periods of time, you must arrange for the proper care of your
lawns and gardens during your absence.

The U.S. Government provides a partial reimbursement of your lawn and
garden maintenance, based on the size of your property. Reimbursements
can be made for the portion of the lawn, gardens, and open ground area
that **[exceeds 8,000 square feet]{.underline}** (exclusive of walks,
driveways, and areas covered by buildings or structures and swimming
pools). The amount that will be reimbursed is determined by pro-rating
the costs of the entire area and is applied, within limits, against your
gardener\'s salary and allowances you have paid.

During your check-in inspection, a GSO representative will provide you
with the total square footage of your lawn and garden to determine if
you qualify for this reimbursement. Please contact the GSO if this was
not done or if you have questions concerning the size of your exterior
property.

**Pets:** Keeping pets in Government housing is a privilege, not a
right. Damage done to structures, grounds, or furnishings by a pet is
not considered normal wear and tear and it is your financial
responsibility. USAID/CAR cannot pay for the alteration, renovation, or
construction of structures on USAID property for the benefit of pets. If
you choose to do so at your own expense, you must first receive written
permission from both your landlord and USAID\'s GSO. The property must
be fully restored to its original condition (at the time of your housing
assignment) before you depart the residence.

**Power Outages:** Loss of electrical power is not a persistent problem
in Central Asia, but outages do occur from time to time. When you see
that you have lost power in your home, first check all your circuit
panels for tripped circuit breakers. Check to see if your neighbors seem
to have the same problem.

A circuit breaker in the \"off\" setting tells you that something has
caused it to trip. Before flipping the circuit breaker back to the
\"on\" position, make sure equipment that may be sensitive to a power
surge (computers, TVs, stereos, and so on) is unplugged. If you cannot
return the circuit breaker to its \"on\" setting, contact the GSO.

In a neighborhood-wide blackout, there is little the GSO can do to help.
We recommend that you unplug sensitive electronic equipment. Try not to
open refrigerator and freezer doors during this time. Doing so
drastically reduces the time your food will remain cold or frozen. A
closed freezer will keep contents frozen for about 10 hours.

**Generators:** USAID/CAR provides generators for all USG-leased houses
for use as a backup when electrical power failure occurs. Most
generators are programmed to run automatically, but if you experience
any difficulties you should contact the GSO duty person available on a
24-hours basis. Please do not attempt to turn the generator on manually.
Only USAID electrician or its contractor has authorization to perform
any service on this type of equipment.

**Refrigerators and Freezers:** Like all appliances, refrigerators and
freezers require periodic cleaning to do their job adequately. Be sure
to keep the coils and space under the refrigerator and freezer clean and
free from dust and lint.

Although most of USAID\'s refrigerators are "frost-free" and require
little maintenance, some conventional freezers do not have automatic
defrosting capabilities and must be manually defrosted. A buildup of
frost slows the heat-transfer process and airflow within a freezer,
making it work much harder to keep foods frozen. Periodically defrosting
a freezer helps it maintain safe temperatures and work more efficiently,
thus preventing damage to its coils. Your freezer should be defrosted
before ice and frost reach a thickness of one-half inch in the
compartment and on the shelves. The most important part of defrosting is
to make sure all moisture from the melted frost is wiped away before
turning the freezer back on.

Here is a safe process for defrosting your conventional-style freezer
that should take less than 60 minutes to complete:

1.  Transfer all frozen foods to a temporary cold storage unit.

2.  Turn the freezer to \"off\", and leave the door open.

3.  NEVER use a knife or other metal objects to try to chop or pry
    accumulated ice from the freezer. This can cause a puncture in the
    cooling line that cannot be repaired.

4.  Place drip pans or towels around the freezer to catch the melting
    frost. Although most freezers are equipped with a bottom drain plug,
    at least a bucketful of water could drain out onto the floor by the
    time the defrosting job is done.

5.  Wipe the freezer\'s entire interior surface dry to eliminate any
    moisture.

6.  Turn the freezer back to the \"on\" setting (5-6 or 7 should be
    sufficient). Allow about 10 minutes to be sure the freezer
    temperature is dropping before transferring the cold foods back to
    the freezer.

**Reporting Loss, Damage, or Destruction of Property:** You must submit
to the GSO a written report of loss, damage, theft, or destruction of
USAID-owned property (or residence). Your report must be generated and
sent to the GSO within two business days after the problem has come to
your attention. Failure to do so will create a presumption of fault on
your part. As has been stated in other parts of this handbook, you will
be held financially liable for any loss caused by negligence, improper
usage, or willful action.

**Security Issues:** Before USAID/CAR entered into a lease agreement on
your property, the Embassy\'s Regional Security Officer (RSO) conducted
a security inspection to ensure that your residence and its neighborhood
met current security standards.

Never allow strangers, unexpected callers, or any unidentified person
into your residence. This includes persons identifying themselves as
neighbors, solicitors, telephone repairmen, electricians, plumbers, and
so on. Children and domestic help should be carefully instructed on this
policy. (See Appendix A for more security-related information.)

All USAID employees carry identification badges. If a GSO technician or
contractor you have not met arrives at your home, ask for proof of
identity. If you are not satisfied, contact USAID\'s GSO *before*
allowing him/her into the property. **Except in an emergency, GSO
workers or contractors must first call to make an appointment before
arriving at your doorstep.**

**Servant\'s Quarters:** USAID/CAR does not provide furnishings for use
in servant\'s quarters and does not permit the moving of USAID-owned
appliances and furnishings from any USAID residence to servants\' rooms.
During your tour, you must ensure that these quarters are cleaned and
properly maintained. When you depart, any costs for damages or cleaning
of the servants\' quarters will be billed to you. No domestic or
gardening help is permitted to stay in servants\' quarters while the
house is vacant and awaiting new occupants.

**Smoke Detectors:** All residences are equipped with smoke detectors. A
smoke detector is the first line of defense in case of a fire. If the
smoke detector "goes off", check the entire residence carefully. A smoke
detector might be defective if you cannot find what caused it to
activate. Contact the GSO to have it checked as soon as possible. (See
Appendix A for detailed fire-safety procedures.)

An intermittent, chirping sound indicates that a smoke detector needs a
new battery. USAID\'s smoke detectors require 9-volt batteries. If you
cannot reach your smoke detector or figure out how to open it, please
contact the GSO. A technician will help you install a new battery.

**Storage of Flammable Liquids:** Flammable liquids should
[not]{.underline} be used for cleaning purposes or stored within
USAID-leased residences. Never dispose of chemicals by pouring them into
the drainage system or yard. Flammable or combustible pressurized
containers should never be used near open flames, burning cigarettes,
cigars, pipes, or electrical appliances. Pay special attention when
storing rags and mops used for applying waxes and polishes. Under no
circumstances should these materials be stored in closets, drawers, or
in enclosed spaces, because they can ignite spontaneously.

**Telephones:** USAID residences usually are equipped with one
telephone. USAID pays only for the initial installation. Contact the GSO
about connecting or disconnecting telephone(s). All other charges,
including monthly local and long-distance fees, phone relocation, extra
extensions, reconnection fees, and interest on late payments are your
responsibility. You should pay your phone bill when notified by the
Procurement Office no later than the established deadline. Late payments
can lead to a possible disconnection of your phone service. If you wish
to dispute a charge, you should pay first and complain later; any
reconnection charges will be your responsibility, and they can be
considerable.

Please note you are not permitted to move a telephone from the office to
your residence (and vice versa). New residents - double-check to see
that USAID\'s C&R office has your current phone number.

**Utilities:** Payment for utilities (electricity, water, heat, etc.) is
the responsibility of USAID/CAR. Therefore, all bills that are delivered
to the residence should be brought to the EXO/Procurement Office for
further processing.

The mission requests that all individuals and families be mindful of,
and conserve their use of gas, water, and electricity.

**Vacuum Cleaners:** A vacuum cleaner has been provided for your use.
Machine repairs follow the standard procedures outlined in the section
\"When You Need to Call the GSO.\"

**Washing Machines and Dryers:**

-   Washers should not be loaded with more items than the recommended
    amount (shown on the machine). Do not *pack* items into the machine.

-   Never exceed the recommended amount of detergent. Use a detergent
    recommended for automatic washers.

-   Remove all items from pockets prior to washing. Coins, nails, and
    other objects can damage the machines. Items such as tissue or bits
    of paper leave lint on clothes.

-   Do not wash or dry bulky or heavy items in the machines. These
    include blankets, quilts, bedspreads, rugs, large bath mats, and so
    on.

-   Check the lint trap before using the dryer, and clean it after each
    use.

# The GSO\'s Responsibility to You

Maintaining your home involves a balance of responsibilities shared by
USAID, the landlord of your residence, and you. Understanding an
individual duty concerning the property helps you solve maintenance
problems quickly and avoid disputes. Sometimes, delineating
responsibilities between these three parties can be difficult. Where
such areas exist, USAID/CAR Executive Officer will determine who will
bear responsibility for the requested maintenance.

All USAID/CAR residences are leased properties. The landlord of your
residence is responsible for all *major* repairs and maintenance. This
includes emergency repairs, such as leaky roofs, broken pipes, and
faulty plumbing or electrical installations. Typically, the landlord
also agrees to pay certain capital improvements to a property. These may
include renovation of the kitchen and bathrooms, replacement of lighting
or plumbing fixtures, or installation of new flooring, and exterior
painting.

When repairs need to be made, even in an emergency, **neither you nor
your family member should call the landlord directly.** Rather, you
should contact the GSO, which serves as the leasing agent for USAID
residences. (Refer to the next section, titled \"When You Need to Call
the GSO,\" which describes the procedures related to work orders). In
the case of an emergency repair, USAID may opt to do the job if the
landlord is unable or unwilling to respond quickly.

The GSO\'s maintenance staff and its appointed contractors provide
*routine* maintenance at all residences (except for those repairs for
which the landlord or employee is responsible). Routine maintenance can
be described as repairs arising from normal usage or wear and tear.
These include minor electrical repairs, minor plumbing repairs, such as
changing faucet washers and fixing running toilets, and the maintenance
of all USAID-supplied appliances (refrigerators, washers, electric
ranges, and so on), when the malfunction is caused by normal use. In
most cases, a GSO technician will be sent to a residence to analyze the
severity of a problem and determine who will bear the responsibility for
the repair.

**Access to Your Home:** USAID/CAR EXO and GSO are responsible for the
proper care and use of USAID properties, furnishings, and equipment. For
this reason, the Executive Officer and the GSO have the right to inspect
all residences. Every effort will be made to inform you well in advance
of a visit. You or another adult member of your family must accompany
the inspector during the visit. Should a landlord wish to check your
residence, he/she first must notify the GSO/EXO to arrange a time that
is convenient for you and the GSO to be there.

Except in an emergency, GSO staff members will not enter a residence to
perform repairs unless an employee, or a person the employee has
designated is present at all times. If you live alone and have no
household help, you must be present when GSO personnel arrive at your
home or give written permission for entry to your home in your absence.

**Hanging of Mirrors/Pictures:** The GSO hangs all USAID/CAR-provided
mirrors as well as mirrors, paintings, and photographs that are part of
your personal property. The GSO will assist you as needed, once your
household effects arrive in country.

**Keys and Locks:** Once you assume permanent occupancy of your house,
the GSO will furnish two complete sets of keys. They will be noted on
your inventory and must be returned before departing post. You will be
charged the cost of replacing any keys lost during your tour (including
any closet and interior door keys), as well as the cost of new locks
that may be needed.

Two additional sets of keys remain with the GSO in a locked cabinet for
emergency access.

Should a lockout occur during working hours, contact the GSO and arrange
to pick up the needed keys. After working hours, contact the GSO
personnel listed on the e-mail sent out every Friday titled \"Emergency
Maintenance Requests\". You should return the extra keys the next day.

Ordinarily, locks are not changed when the previous resident was a USAID
employee. New locks are required, however, for newly leased properties.
If you lose your keys and new locks have to be installed to protect
property, you must bear all costs of the lock replacement. Any time
locks are changed, two sets of keys must be made available to the GSO.

**Lighting and Light Bulbs:** Prior to your arrival, the GSO placed
working light bulbs in all light fixtures, lamps, and security lighting.
You are responsible for replacing all interior light bulbs once you move
in. The GSO will assist you in replacing any bulbs (which you have
purchased) that you cannot reach safely. Please do not use light bulbs
stronger than 60 watts.

**Loan of Furnishings:** The GSO can assist with your private and
official functions by loaning tables and chairs for your use. All items
are subject to availability at the time. Please submit your request via
the Work Order System at least three days in advance of the function.
(These loaned items can be used only at USG-leased properties).

**Painting:** Normally, the interiors of USAID/CAR residences are
painted at the start of a new lease and then during each change in
occupancy - every two to four years, or as defined in the lease. Only
white or off-white lead-free paint is used. Your home has been inspected
by the GSO to ensure it is lead-free; information on keeping your family
safe from lead poisoning is contained in Appendix C. At no time are you
permitted to paint any wood surface, apply wallpaper, or otherwise
modify your residence without the written approval of the landlord
[through]{.underline} the General Services Office.

**Requests for Additional Furniture:** You may request additional
furniture, furnishings, and appliances from the GSO warehouse. The
General Services Officer and Property Management Supervisor will review
each request and make a decision, based on justification and
availability of the item. Additional items sent to your residence might
be recalled if needed elsewhere.

**Residential Repairs:** Unless the repair is your responsibility as an
occupant, contact the GSO, using the procedures noted in the next
section, \"When You Need to Call the GSO.\" The GSO either will make the
necessary repairs or coordinate your needs with the landlord to ensure
they are handled quickly and professionally.

**Reupholstering of Furniture:** The decision to reupholster USAID-owned
furniture is made by the GSO/EXO on a case-by-case basis. Considerations
include the age of the furniture (it must be at least four years old),
its condition, the total cost of reupholstering, and the remaining time
left on the occupant\'s tour. USAID in not permitted to pay for
reupholstering or repair of furniture due to abuse by the employee,
his/her family members, household help, pets, and so on. Contact the GSO
for more information.

**Utilities:** USAID pays for all water, heat and electricity charges.
The GSO handles related emergency problems, such as sewage backup and
loss of electrical power (see \"Power Outages\" in the previous
section). Please help conserve valuable natural resources and keep down
utility costs by turning off water taps and appliances when they are not
needed. Air conditioners and heaters are a big drain of electrical
energy. Please remember to turn them off when no one is at home or a
room is unoccupied.

**Generators:** USAID/CAR is solely responsible for the installation and
service (routine as well as emergency) of each generator in its
inventory. This includes but is not limited to: the inspection and
replacement of oil and fuel filters, storage battery and the oil. When
necessary, a commercial vendor under contract by the Mission may perform
the needed services including after hour emergencies.

**Water Distillers:** Due to the inconsistent quality of tap water in
Central Asia, the Mission provides a water distiller for cooking or
drinking purposes. Each residence is equipped with one water distiller,
which on average is serviced three times a year.

**Hot Water Heaters:** USAID/CAR provides hot water heaters for each
residence and installs them in the main bathroom and kitchen. The hot
water heaters are essential when the central heating system is turned
off for maintenance twice a year (late spring and early fall). At these
times, the GSO staff will turn on your hot water heaters. Please do not
attempt to turn on the hot water heater yourself.

**Cable Television Services:** All residences (including TDY apartments)
will receive a cable TV connection during the make-ready preparation for
occupancy. USAID/CAR pays the installation fee, but permanent occupants
are required to subscribe (pay in advance) for six (6) or twelve (12)
months of service. Credit card payments for the services may be arranged
via the EXO/Procurement office.

**Window Screens:** When negotiating new leases, USAID/CAR tries to have
landlords provide window screening. If they are not already provided,
screens may be requested from the GSO (depending on availability of
funding) for all windows, except those in maid\'s quarters and service
areas. When screens exist and are in repairable condition, the GSO may
opt to repair rather than replace them.

# When You Need to Call the GSO

USAID/CAR GSO is a customer-driven department, dedicated to providing
you prompt, professional service. To that end, the GSO has streamlined
its work-request procedures and developed a computerized Work Order
System.

All USAID/CAR/Almaty employees must use the Work Order System for
placing any maintenance requests as well as requests for non-expendable
property (both office and residential). USAID/CAR satellite offices must
use the e-mail system to request any of the work or property from the
GSO office. Such e-mails should be sent to the EXO/GSO and supervisors
of related branches (Motor Pool, Maintenance, Procurement, and so on).
Only work orders, approved by the GSO or his/her designee will be
honored. Most service requests are completed within five working days.
When a delay occurs (because a part must be ordered, for example), the
GSO will notify you of the problem and explain when the work should be
completed. Denial of a work request, including an explanation for the
denial, will be made in writing to the employee within five working
days.

In the event of an [emergency]{.underline} that occurs during working
hours call the GSO immediately and describe your problem. An emergency
is defined as a repair that can\'t be deferred until the next day.
Examples of maintenance emergencies include a broken water pipe, a fire,
a flood, burning electrical appliances, or a nonfunctioning stove,
refrigerator, or freezer.

When an emergency occurs on the weekend or after-hours, contact one of
the GSO personnel listed on the emergency call card and/or e-mail sent
out every Friday titled \"Emergency Maintenance Requests.\"

# Departing From Post

You can help ease your transition from USAID/CAR by carefully
coordinating your pack-out and departure dates with the GSO. The EXO
Personnel Office provides a check-out form that you must complete.
Clearance from the General Services Office is a necessary part of
departure procedures. You will not be issued transportation tickets
until you have completed the EXO/GSO check-out process and have settled
all bills relating to the maintenance of your residence.

The following plan is included to help you organize your schedule in
your last several weeks at post:

1.  **Notify the GSO.** You should contact the GSO at least six weeks in
    advance of your exact departure date so that arrangements can be
    made to assign your house when it becomes vacant. You also will need
    to schedule a pack-out date with the GSO.

2.  **Order a Hospitality Kit.** At the same time, if you desire, you
    can arrange with USAID\'s GSO to send a hospitality kit to your
    residence when your household effects are packed. The kit will be
    similar to the one you received when you arrived in country.

3.  **Schedule a Pre-Inspection, Check-Out Inventory, and Final
    Inspection.** After you have determined a packing date, you should
    contact the GSO and make appointments for a pre-inspection of your
    residence, a check-out inventory of USAID-owned appliances and
    furniture, and a final inspection of the property.

> The GSO\'s pre-inspection, conducted 30 days before your departure,
> will give you an idea of the cleaning and repairs that must be made to
> your residence before the final inspection. The final inspection and
> the check-out inventory should be conducted [after]{.underline} your
> personal belongings have been removed (pack-out), and within 10 days
> of your departure. If any damage has occurred during your tour or any
> USAID-supplied items are missing, you will be held responsible. You
> will be charged according to the depreciated value of the item or
> provided with an estimate of the cost of repairing the damage. If you
> fail to allow the GSO enough time to assess damages, you will be
> required to leave a deposit with a U.S. Government employee
> (preferably a USAID/CAR employee) whom you have designated as your
> agent.

4.  **Clean the Residence.** Prior to the date of your check-out
    inventory and final inspection, you should plan to spend some time
    cleaning up the inside and outside of your residence. Allow enough
    time to have your carpeting cleaned and dried before your final
    inspection. Please use the following Pre-Departure Checklist as a
    reference. Those who do not clean their residences will be charged
    the cost of a professional cleaning.

5.  **Settle Your Outstanding Bills.** Before you leave, you must pay
    any remaining bills or arrange with your USG agent to pay them when
    they are due. These include telephone bills, outstanding travel or
    per diem advances, and any amount owed to USAID for damage to
    property.

6.  **Return Your Hospitality Kit.** If you requested a hospitality kit,
    you should contact the GSO to collect it as soon as you are ready to
    depart. All items should be clean, carefully packed, and in the same
    condition in which they were loaned to you.

7.  **Turn In Your Keys.** On the day you depart post, you should turn
    in to the EXO/GSO all keys to the main doors and gates of your
    residence. If you prefer, you may give the keys to the driver who
    transports you to the airport. **Interior door keys should be left
    in their appropriate locks**. You also should notify the EXO/GSO as
    to where any other sets of keys will be left in the residence.

## Pre-Departure Checklist

The following checklist should help you prepare your residence for your
check-out inventory and final inspection:

-   [Rugs:]{.underline} Vacuum thoroughly. If any damage beyond normal
    wear and tear is noted by the GSO, you will be responsible for a
    professional cleaning at your own expense.

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-   [Walls and Woodwork:]{.underline} Remove any hand and fingerprints;
    pencil, crayon, and scuff marks; decals and stickers affixed to
    windows, mirrors, and walls. Double-check all doors and door frames.
    If you have repainted, restore walls and woodwork to their original
    condition.

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-   [Windows:]{.underline} Clean inside and outside (where possible).
    Clean windowsills and frames.

-   [Hard Furniture:]{.underline} Clean and polish exterior and interior
    surfaces.

-   [Upholstered Furniture:]{.underline} Vacuum, clean fabric, and
    polish wood.

-   [Refrigerators and Freezers:]{.underline} Remove all food and
    defrost. Wash inside of appliance thoroughly with warm water and
    bicarbonate of soda. Do not use scouring powder as the abrasives
    will damage materials. Clean the outside in the same manner. Pull
    the appliances away from the wall and clean behind. Leave appliances
    connected and running when vacating the quarters, or turn them off
    and prop open the doors.

-   [Kitchen Cabinets:]{.underline} Remove foodstuff, all other items,
    [and shelf paper]{.underline}. Clean shelves, wash doors and
    hardware.

-   [Stoves:]{.underline} Wash the outside with hot, soapy water. Do not
    use scouring powders that may harm enamel. Remove the top, clean
    around burners and underneath top. Scrape and clean other parts, as
    needed. Wash aluminum under burners and polish chrome parts. Clean
    oven and broiler areas. NOTE: To prevent damage to the heating
    elements on the electrical system, please do not use an excessive
    amount of water while cleaning.

-   [Drawers and Closets:]{.underline} Remove all personal items. Ensure
    that all shelf and lining papers are removed and discarded. Dust and
    clean all surfaces. Leave all drawers, cabinets, and closets open
    for airing.

-   [Bathrooms:]{.underline} Wash the floors and walls. Flush and wash
    toilet bowls and seats thoroughly. Ensure that plumbing is unblocked
    and functioning properly. Clean other bathroom fixtures, bathroom
    cabinets, and windows. Wash shower curtains and doors, being certain
    to remove mildew and mold.

-   [Floors:]{.underline} Remove furniture, personal effects, and debris
    from all rooms. Clean floors thoroughly, especially in baseboard
    corners, between joints, and behind all furniture and appliances.

-   [Electrical Fixtures and Lamps:]{.underline} Clean and polish
    fixtures. CAUTION: Before cleaning electrical fixtures and lamps,
    unplug or turn off the switch at the wall socket. To avoid electric
    shock be extremely careful when using water or other liquids and
    damp cloths on electrical fixtures and appliances. Replace any
    burned-out bulbs. Clean lamp shades (vacuum cloth shades; wipe
    plastic shades) inside and out.

-   [Air Conditioners and Humidifiers:]{.underline} Clean front panels
    and wash filters. Re-install filters when dry. Clean water-storage
    containers of USAID-owned humidifiers.

-   [Trash, Miscellaneous Personal Items:]{.underline} Remove all trash
    and personal items from storage rooms, carports, garages, and other
    areas in and around the quarters, and arrange for their removal from
    the premises.

# Index

Access to your home, 19

Air conditioner, 13

Alterations to a usaid property, 13

Authorized furnishings, 10

Bar-code, 15

Cable television services, 21

Check-out inventory, 23

Check-out process, 23

Circuit breakers, 15

Electrical power, 15

Emergency, 22

Emergency maintenance requests, 22

Final inspection, 23

Fire extinguisher, 14

Fire safety, 27

Gardens, 15

Generators, 16, 21

Gso\'s responsibility, 19

Heater, 13

Hospitality kit, 8, 24

Hot water heaters, 21

House guests, 14

House guests and house sitters, 14

Household cleaning supplies, 13

Household inventory, 14

Housing assignment, 29

Housing assignment, 4

Inspection checklist, 33

Inventory, 9

Inventory record, 14

Keys, 20

Keys and locks, 20

Lawn and gardens, 15

Lighting and light bulbs, 20

Loan of furnishings, 20

Maintenance, 15

Marine security guard, 27

Outstanding bills, 24

Paint, 20

Pets, 15

Power outages, 15

Pre-departure checklist, 24

Refrigerators and freezers, 16

Regional security office, 27

Reporting loss, damage, or destruction of property, 17

Residential repairs, 21

Residential security, 27

Reupholstering of furniture, 21

Reupholstering or repair of furniture, 21

Sauna and dipping pool, 7

Security, 17

Servant\'s quarters, 17

Size of your residence, 4

Smoke detectors, 17

Space authorizations, 6

Statement of acceptance, 33

Storage of flammable liquids, 17

Telephone, 18

Utilities, 18

Vacuum cleaner, 18

Washers, 18

Washing machines and dryers, 18

Water distillers, 21

Window screen, 22

Wood and tiled surfaces, 13

Work order system, 22

Work-request, 22

# APPENDIX A: Residential Security and Fire Safety Procedures

## Residential Security

The Embassy\'s Regional Security Office holds primary responsibility for
residential security. Each occupant, however, is responsible for his/her
personal safety and security.

As noted in the main section, the RSO strongly urges you, your family,
and domestic help to deny entry to your residence to strangers,
unexpected callers, and unidentified individuals - even those who
identify themselves as neighbors, solicitors, repairmen, and so on.

In the event of a break-in, call or radio the Marine Security Guard.
Report that a break-in is in progress, give your exact home address.
Marine Security Guards are on duty 24-hours; in order to reach them,
program your radio on [channel 1 or call 50-76-27]{.underline}.

In the event of any burglary or break-in, immediately contact the RSO,
who will instruct you on how to report the crime and will arrange with
the GSO for any emergency repairs that need to be made to your
residence.

## Fire Safety

It is very important to establish and review fire-safety procedures with
your domestic help and family members. These should include evacuating
children from the dwelling to a pre-determined place, operating fire
extinguishers correctly, and contacting the fire department by telephone
(dial 01).

When you plan to be away from your residence for an extended period of
time, turn off all electrical appliances at the main switch. Never
overload electrical outlets and adapters, and never use extension cords
to operate large appliances. Please report defective outlets,
transformers, and other electrical equipment immediately to the GSO.

**[In Case of a Small Fire:]{.underline}**

1.  Remove children from the fire area.

2.  Try to keep the fire from spreading by using a fire extinguisher. Do
    not take unnecessary risks, however.

3.  [Do not]{.underline} use a fire extinguisher or water to stop an
    electrical fire. Instead, shut off the current to the house at the
    main switch (usually near the electric meter). Call the GSO
    immediately.

4.  Use powdered bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) to put out a grease
    fire. If the fire is limited to a pan or skillet, smother it by
    covering the fire with a lid.

5.  Call the GSO to report any damages.

**[In Case of a Large Fire:]{.underline}**

1.  Evacuate all occupants from the residence immediately. Do not stop
    to collect valuables. Make sure everyone is safely outside.

2.  Go to a neighbor\'s house or use a cellular phone to request
    assistance from the fire department (dial 01). Be prepared to give
    the fire official the location of your residence by noting major
    cross streets and landmarks, as needed.

3.  Dial 50-76-27 to call to the Marine Security Guard or use the radio
    programmed on channel 1.

4.  Report the fire to the GSO.

# 

# 

# 

# APPENDIX B: Changing Your Housing Assignment

The USAID/CAR Executive Officer and Deputy Mission Director work
diligently to place employees and their families in suitable homes.
Sometimes, however, factual errors or omissions occur in the selection
process making a particular housing assignment inappropriate. At other
times, a change in residence may serve the best interests of USAID or
the health and welfare of the employee and his/her family.

Circumstances that might warrant changing residence include (but are not
limited to):

-   Lease expiration or an unacceptable increase in rental charges;

-   Damage of quarters due to fire, flooding, or unsafe equipment;

-   Untenable conditions in or around the residence that require
    extensive, lengthy, or costly repairs;

-   Safety concerns, such as a landlord refusing to make needed security
    modifications;

-   Medical certification recommending a change of residence from the
    post\'s Medical Officer;

-   An increase or decrease in the number of family members residing at
    post, which is expected to last for at least one year;

-   No accommodation meeting the appropriate standard was available for
    the employee upon arrival at post.

Just as the Executive Officer and Deputy Mission Director make all
assignments, they are also the arbiters for housing changes. No employee
or family members are authorized to deal with real estate agents or
landlords for the acquisition or leasing of houses. The EXO/GSO is the
primary contact and has responsibility for identifying houses for
possible lease by USAID/CAR.

Those wishing to change residences for preferential reasons, such as a
desire to live closer to the office, may also request a housing
reassignment. The Executive Officer and/or Deputy Mission Director, as
flexible and sympathetic as they can be to an employee\'s personal
needs, may not find such reasons compelling enough to warrant a
reassignment. If you wish to appeal a housing assignment, please
carefully note the process outlined below.

[The Appeals Process]{.underline}

Any request for a change in quarters must be made in writing and
submitted to the Executive Officer and the Deputy Mission Director. It
should state the nature of the problem and describe a suggested remedy,
such as the general type of residence desired.

USAID/CAR agrees to pay for one move in a four-year tour of duty,
provided the following criteria are met: the employee has at least 18
months left on his/her tour; the Executive Officer and the Deputy
Mission Director consider the reason(s) for moving to be valid; and an
appropriate residence is available in the housing pool.

If an employee wants to move again during the same tour, he/she must pay
all moving costs, including the cleaning, painting, and repairing of the
current residence in preparation for a new occupant and the preparation
of the new residence. Whenever a reassignment is made at the convenience
of USAID/CAR, the agency bears all costs relating to the move.

Until the Executive Officer and the Deputy Mission Director reach their
decision, the employee and his or her family must remain in assigned
housing or may choose to occupy non-governmental housing at their own
expense. Temporary quarters subsistence allowance (TQSA) may be denied,
however, if USAID-held housing remains vacant.

Those not satisfied with the Executive Officer and the Deputy Mission
Director's decision may submit another request in writing to the
USAID/CAR Mission Director for review and final determination.

# APPENDIX C: Lead Poisoning Prevention Tips

# 

To better inform you of potential lead poisoning hazards that may exist
in our environment, we have included the following exert from the HUD
Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control.

Please note that USAID/CAR leased residences have been tested and found
to be free of lead-based paint.

SIMPLE STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM ENVIRONMENTAL LEAD HAZARDS

-   Wash children\'s hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.

-   Make sure children eat healthy, low-fat foods.

-   Get your home checked for lead hazards.

-   Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces.

-   Take precautions to avoid exposure to lead dust when remodeling or
    renovating (call 1-800-424-LEAD for guidelines).

-   Don\'t use a belt-sander, propane torch, dry scraper, or dry
    sandpaper on painted surfaces that may contain lead.

-   Don\'t try to remove lead-based paint yourself.

-   Have your children tested for lead, even if they seem healthy.

LEAD FACTS

FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they
are born.

FACT: Even children that seem healthy can have high levels of lead in
their bodies.

FACT: People can get lead in their bodies by breathing or swallowing
lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips with lead in them.

FACT: People have many options for reducing lead hazards.

FACT: Removing lead-based paint improperly can increase the danger to
your family.

People can get more lead in their bodies if they:

-   Put their hands or objects covered with lead dust in their mouths,

-   Eat paint chips or soil that contains lead, or

-   Breathe in lead dust (especially during renovations that disturb
    painted surfaces).

Lead is even more dangerous to children than adults because:

-   Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in
    their mouths and,

-   these objects can have lead dust on them.

-   Children\'s growing bodies absorb more lead.

-   Children\'s developing brains and nervous systems are more sensitive
    to the damaging effects of lead.

Did you know...

> Many homes built before 1978 have lead-based paint. The federal
> government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978. Some states
> stopped its use even earlier.
>
> Lead-based paint that is in good condition is usually not a hazard.
>
> Peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking lead-based paint is a hazard
> and needs
>
> immediate attention.

Lead dust can form when lead-based paint is dry scraped, dry sanded or
heated. Dust also forms when painted surfaces bump or rub together. Lead
chips and dust can get on surfaces and objects that people touch.
Settled dust can reenter the air when people vacuum, sweep, or walk
through it. Contaminated bare soil can also increase dust lead levels.

If lead is not detected early, children with high levels of lead in
their bodies can suffer from:

\- Damage to the brain and nervous system

\- Behavior and learning problems (such as hyperactivity)

\- Slowed growth

\- Hearing Problems

\- Headaches

Lead is also harmful to adults. Adults can suffer from:

\- Difficulties during pregnancy

\- Other reproductive problems (in both men and women)

\- High blood pressure

\- Digestive problems

\- Nerve disorders

\- Memory and concentration problems

\- Muscle and joint pain

For more information , please call the National Lead Information
Clearinghouse at

1-800-424-LEAD.

# ATTACHMENT: Statement of Acceptance

I acknowledge receipt of the quarters at .

(address)

Except for normal wear and tear and circumstances beyond my control, I
accept financial responsibility for any damage to quarters by me or
members of my household or guests. Should damage occur, it is my
understanding that the extent of my liability will be determined by the
GSO/EXO and/or Property Survey Board.

Signature of Employee/Occupant Date

Signature of Housing Coordinator Date

I certify that all the items listed in the attached inspection checklist
have been returned in good condition or that the following discrepancies
listed below must be resolved and/or recommendations of the GSO/EXO
and/or the Property Survey Board must be complied with:

Signature of Housing Coordinator Date

#### The occupant of this residence is hereby relieved of responsibility for the residence.

Signature of Accountable Property Officer Date