The most important procedure in the pre-event phase of risk control is establishing and maintaining a solid base of accurate documentation of PHA risk control activities. This documentation not only establishes policies and procedures to help prevent unwanted accidents, but it also provides a measure of proof that can help defend the PHA against a later claim.

Take, for example, accidents involving smoke detectors. Many PHAs require maintenance staff to test and inspect living unit smoke detectors during a work order visit for another reason. The smoke detector test should be documented on the work order or separately on an inspection form.