Finding 1208280 (2023-005)

Material Weakness Repeat Finding
Requirement
N
Questioned Costs
-
Year
2023
Accepted
2026-04-21
Audit: 399311
Organization: Ashmore Homes, Inc. (MD)
Auditor: SIKICH CPA LLC

AI Summary

  • Core Issue: The tenant security deposit account balance was insufficient to cover liabilities as of June 30, 2023.
  • Impacted Requirements: This is a case of noncompliance with the requirement to maintain security deposits in a separate FDIC insured account.
  • Recommended Follow-up: The Project should review and improve procedures to ensure compliance and prevent future issues, as acknowledged by management.

Finding Text

Criteria: The Project is required to maintain tenant security deposits in a separate FDIC insured account. The balance in the bank account is required to cover the tenant security deposit liability. Condition: The balance in the Project’s tenant security deposit bank account at June 30, 2023 was not sufficient to cover the tenant security deposit liability. We consider this finding to be an instance of noncompliance regarding the Special Tests and Provisions compliance requirement. Effect: By not holding tenant security deposits in a separate account, the Project may have insufficient funds when the deposits are required to be refunded. Questioned Costs: $2,409 Cause: The Project experienced turnover on the finance team which resulted in funds not being transferred to the security deposit account when collected. Recommendation: The Project should consider reevaluating their established procedures and controls currently in place to ensure full compliance regarding special tests and provisions. Views of Responsible Officials: Management agrees with the findings. There was significant turnover during and subsequent to the audit period resulting in a lack of controls. Controls have been re-evaluated and implemented under new management. Further response is included in the Corrective Action Plan.

Corrective Action Plan

Fund Account - Deposit additional funds to cover shortfall - March 25, 2026 Segregation and Monitoring - Transfer all new deposits immediately; perform monthly reconciliations. - Effective immediately Policies and Training - Update policies; train staff on deposit handling and monitoring - May/June 2026 Oversight and Reporting - CFO/Controller review monthly reconciliations; provide quarterly updates to Finance Committee - Ongoing

Categories

Special Tests & Provisions

Other Findings in this Audit

  • 1208278 2023-003
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 1208279 2023-004
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 1208281 2023-006
    Material Weakness Repeat

Programs in Audit

ALN Program Name Expenditures
14.181 SUPPORTIVE HOUSING FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES $1.10M
14.856 LOWER INCOME HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SECTION 8 MODERATE REHABILITATION $92,427