Investigating and Discovering the Facts

1. If an owner suspects that a tenant has inaccurately supplied or misrepresented information that affects the tenant’s rent or eligibility, the owner must investigate and document the tenant’s statements and any conflicting information the owner has received. To research questionable information, the owner may:

   • a. Confront the tenant with the tenant’s information and any conflicting information;

HUD Occupancy Handbook Chapter 8: Termination

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Section 4: Discrepancies, Errors, and Fraud

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• b. Obtain additional information from other persons or agencies; and

• c. Take other actions to verify either the tenant’s information or the conflicting information.

• NOTE: Owners may not suspend, terminate, reduce or make a final denial of any benefits of a tenant until they have taken appropriate steps to independently verify the tenant’s information or the conflicting information.*

  2. If an intentional misstatement or withholding of information cannot be substantiated through documentation, the owner must treat the case as an unintentional program violation.

• D.