We audited the Blair County Housing Authority’s Housing Choice Voucher program due to a citizen’s complaint alleging that the Authority (1) did not properly calculate housing assistance payments, (2) did not allow tenants to receive disability allowances, and (3) used outdated utility allowance schedules. Our audit objective was to determine whether the Authority accurately calculated housing assistance payments, disability allowances and utility allowances in accordance with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations.

The Authority generally followed HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher program regulations.  It accurately calculated housing assistance payments and disability allowances. It also ensured that tenants met eligibility requirements and were properly selected from its waiting list.  However, the Authority’s utility allowance schedule was inadequate as the complaint alleged.  Additionally, the Authority did not have signed leases for all of its housing units as required.

We recommend that HUD require the Authority to (1) revise its utility allowance schedule to ensure that utility allowances are current and determined according to the size and unit type; (2) if applicable, correct the utility allowances calculated for all program participants; (3) obtain signed leases for all program participants; and (4) develop and implement controls to ensure that it annually reviews its utility allowance schedule and obtains copies of signed leases.