Finding Text
2023‐002 HQS Enforcement
Questioned Costs The exact monetary impact needs further investigation to determine the amount of HAP that
should have been abated for the period of non‐compliance.
Criteria HUD requires that all units under the Housing Choice Vouchers Program meet specific Housing
Quality Standards (HQS). In cases of failed inspections, timely re‐inspections are mandatory, and if
compliance is not achieved, abatement of Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) or voucher
cancellation is required.
US Department of Housing and Urban Development
Program Name Housing Voucher Cluster
ALN (s) N Special Tests
Condition During the audit, it was noted that in seven (7) instances, a unit that failed its HQS inspection did
not undergo a subsequent re‐inspection or no inspection was documented. Consequently, the
required abatement of HAP or cancellation of the housing voucher was not executed.
Context This finding represents a potentially systemic issue within the Housing Voucher Cluster program, as
it was identified in seven (7) files tested out of a sample of eight (8) cases. It highlights a need for
more rigorous enforcement and monitoring of HQS compliance.
Cause The non‐compliance appears to stem from oversight or procedural lapses in the enforcement of
HQS within the Housing Voucher Cluster program. This may be due to inadequate training,
monitoring, or failure to adhere to established protocols.
Effect This non‐compliance undermines the integrity of the Housing Choice Vouchers Program and may
lead to tenants living in substandard conditions. It also represents a risk of improper use of federal
funds and can impact the credibility and effectiveness of the program.
Recommendations Implement more stringent procedures for monitoring HQS compliance, including timely
reinspection and enforcement of HAP abatement or voucher cancellation. Enhance training for
staff involved in the HQS process to ensure a thorough understanding of compliance requirements.
Establish a system of regular audits to identify and rectify lapses in HQS enforcement promptly.
Management Views The auditee acknowledges the deficiency in enforcing Housing Quality Standards (HQS) as
highlighted in the finding. In response to this issue, the management commits to implementing a comprehensive corrective action plan.