Investigative Process
Reports of fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement are usually received by:
- Written correspondence (faxes, mail, and/or e-mail)
- Phone calls to the OIG Hotline
- Referrals from another HUD department or law enforcement agency
- Congressional complaints to the IG
- Independent audit
Each allegation is evaluated on its connection to HUD and if it involves criminal or civil fraud. Once a preliminary review of an allegation is completed, we will either convert the complaint to an investigation, refer it to the appropriate program office, or close the complaint. This is all handled by the OIG Hotline.
Once an official investigation is opened, the investigator will make every effort to review complaints as quickly and efficiently as possible. Various factors may, however, affect the progress of an investigation, including the demands of higher priority cases, the availability and proximity of involved parties, and the need to protect the identity and rights of those under investigation.
OIG does not provide status reports on investigations in progress to Department managers or interested parties, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. As added protection to the integrity of the investigative process and the privacy of those involved, it is OIG’s policy not to release publicly the details of an ongoing investigation.
OIG conducts investigations according to investigative procedures established by the professional community, which include reviews of relevant files and documentation and interviews with and written statements from complainants, witnesses, technical experts, and subjects of inquiries.