The homeowner is responsible for the upkeep of the home on a HECM. The homeowner continues to bear all the responsibilities of a homeowner, including making repairs and paying taxes and insurance.
In a reverse mortgage, there is no regulatory requirement for an escrow account for payment of taxes and insurance. If you fail to maintain the home, or pay property taxes or hazard insurance, the bank could foreclose on your house.
Learn more from the Department of Housing and Urban Development's HECM page.