HUD’s Office of Multifamily Housing Programs is eliminating the requirement for emergency call systems located on page 7 of the Minimum Property Standards for Housing Handbook 4910.1 (MPS Handbook). Through a Housing Notice, HUD has made these call systems optional.

As an owner or agent, you can exercise the option to remove emergency call systems and NOT replace them. Owners who choose to remove an operable system must notify tenants in advance and consider comments received. In the absence of a functioning emergency-call system, HUD encourages owners to conduct regular welfare checks, especially for those living alone or who have limited mobility.

Questions should be directed to AssetManagementPolicy@hud.gov.

Source: Office of Multifamily Housing email on 09/16/2026