Finding Text
Finding 2022-002 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Moving to Work Demonstration Program - ALN 14.881 Special Tests and Provisions Condition: During our review of 40 failed inspection reports prepared by the Authority as part of the biennial reexamination process, we noted two units in which rent (or partial month?s rent) was not abated when the deficiencies were not corrected within the required time frame. We also noted 29 instances where we were not able to review documentation as to the exact date the landlord was notified about the deficiencies. In all of these instances, the repairs were made in a required timeframe, leading to a conclusion that the landlords were made aware of the deficiencies, however, proper documentation of that fact was not able to be reviewed. Criteria: The Authority is required to have controls in place to ensure rent is abated to landlords for units that do not repair deficiencies noted in the unit inspection within 30 days, or 24 hours for life threatening deficiencies. The Authority is also required to have internal controls in place and maintain documentation of their communication to the landlords of such deficiencies. Cause: During the year, the Authority experienced turnover within several key positions, coupled with other logistical staffing challenges, that led to deficiencies in internal control processes over these areas. Effect: The proper abatement of rent to landlords who do not resolve unit deficiencies helps to ensure safe and affordable housing for tenants. While the two units noted passed inspection the following month, rent should have been abated for a period. Maintaining the letters communicating deficiencies to landlords helps to ensure that the Authority?s processes are being followed and that landlords are notified timely of such deficiencies. Questioned Costs: Unknown Recommendation: We recommend that the Authority implement additional procedures to ensure rent is properly abated when deficiencies are not resolved within the required timeframe and that letters to landlords notifying them of such deficiencies are maintained. In addition, appropriate training and planning should be performed to ensure that future turnover in the organization does not lead to a lapse in internal controls over compliance. Views of responsible officials and planned corrective action: Management agrees with the finding. See separate corrective action plan.