24 C.F.R. § 14.330
§ 14.330 Decision. (24 CFR Part 14)
Operative Text
The adjudicative officer shall issue an initial decision on the application within 30 days after completion of proceedings on the application. The decision shall include written findings and conclusions on such of the following as are relevant to the decision: (a) The applicant's status as a prevailing party; (b) The applicant's qualification as a party under 5 U.S.C. 504(b)(1)(B); (c) Whether the agency's position was substantially justified; (d) Whether special circumstances make an award unjust; (e) Whether the applicant during the course of the proceedings engaged in conduct that unduly and unreasonably protracted the final resolution of the matter in controversy; and (f) The amounts, if any, awarded for fees and other expenses, with reasons for any difference between the amount requested and the amount awarded.
Under 24 CFR Part 14 § 14.330, once proceedings on a fee application conclude, the adjudicative officer has 30 days to issue an initial written decision. That decision must address each relevant factor, including whether the applicant prevailed, whether the agency's position was substantially justified, whether any special circumstances would make an award unfair, and whether the applicant's own conduct unnecessarily delayed the proceedings. If fees or expenses are awarded, the decision must explain any difference between what was requested and what was granted.
Plain English — not legal advice.
For HUD-regulated entities acting as respondents in adjudicative proceedings, § 14.330 establishes the framework under which a fee award decision is rendered. Operators and their representatives generally document the agency's litigation position carefully, since the adjudicative officer will assess whether that position was substantially justified when deciding on any fee award. Understanding that the decision must be issued within 30 days of proceedings closing helps parties anticipate the timeline for resolution.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under § 14.330, if you have participated in a HUD adjudicative proceeding and sought an award of fees or expenses, you have the right to receive a written initial decision within 30 days of the close of proceedings that explains the reasoning behind any award or denial. The decision must address factors such as your status as a prevailing party and whether the agency's position was substantially justified, giving you a documented basis to understand the outcome. If you believe the decision did not properly apply these factors, tenant-rights organizations or legal aid resources can help you understand options such as further administrative review.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 4, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
References Out
No outbound references recorded yet for this provision.
References In
No inbound references recorded yet for this provision.