HUD's Housing Quality Standards (HQS) are the minimum requirements that a housing unit must meet in order to be eligible for participation in HUD's housing programs. These standards ensure that the housing unit is decent, safe, and sanitary. HQS includes requirements on the physical condition of a unit, such as the structure and construction, heating system, electrical, sanitation, plumbing, and smoke detectors. HQS also includes requirements on the management of the housing unit, such as the maintenance of the unit and the maintenance of common areas.