HUD HCV Guidebook § 3.1

In developing the schedule, the PHA must18 use normal patterns of consumption for the community as a
whole and current utility rates. The objective is to establish allowances based on actual rates and average
consumption estimates, which allows most participating families an allowance that is adequate to cover
expected average utility costs over a twelve-month period. Similar to the “budget plans” available through
many local utility companies, the allowances are based on an estimated full year of usage divided equally over
12 months, although the family’s actual usage may fluctuate from month to month. Information regarding
typical utility usage and the cost of utilities and services is generally available through the following local
sources:
       Electric utility suppliers;
       Natural gas utility suppliers;
       Water and sewer suppliers;
       Fuel oil and bottled gas suppliers;
       Public utility commissions;
       Real estate and property management firms;
       State and local agencies;
       Appliance sales and leasing firms; and
       Neighboring PHAs.