NYCHA must report fake inspections

The federal monitor overseeing NYCHA released an action plan Tuesday that would require the authority to make criminal referrals when inspections are falsified or conducted improperly.

The 37-page plan, released on the monitor’s website, aims to end “deceptive” inspection practices through retraining workers and educating them about the legal jeopardy they can place themselves in if they run afoul of the new strictures.

Under the plan, the New York City Housing Authority’s compliance department would be required to make criminal referrals to NYCHA’s inspector general and the monitor if it uncovers any “deceptive practice or other improper practice.”

Once it receives such a referral, the monitor could then direct the matter to the U.S attorney’s office or the Manhattan district attorney.

In recent years, the Housing Authority has become infamous for its negligence when it comes to inspections. Last November, the Daily News revealed how three top managers in the authority’s elevator division were indicted for signing off on inspections that had never occurred. In July, The News revealed how NYCHA failed to perform roof inspections required under manufacturer warranties.

The monitor’s new action plan also requires the authority’s compliance department to report to several higherups within NYCHA and the monitor if any wrongdoing surrounding inspections is discovered. NYCHA will be required to regularly remind employees of their responsibilities.

“NYCHA shall routinely and frequently instruct employees not to use deceptive practices such as covering up or hiding conditions that need repair,” the report states. “NYCHA will advise employees to report deceptive practices and identify how that can be done. NYCHA also will explain that there can be no retaliation for making such reports in good faith.”

NYCHA did not respond to a request to comment. The monitor declined to comment publicly about the new report.