Government audit of short-term rentals using eAuditor

Conducting a local government audit of short-term rentals using mobile eAuditor can greatly streamline the process and enhance efficiency. Here are some checklist items that can be included in the app:

Property Information:

Property address and contact details of the owner/manager.
Property type (house, apartment, etc.) and number of units available.
License or permit information for operating short-term rentals.

Regulatory Compliance:

Verification of compliance with local zoning regulations and ordinances.
Confirmation of required licenses or permits for short-term rentals.
Adherence to safety and building code requirements.

Occupancy and Reservation Records:

Review of occupancy records for each unit over a specific time period.
Confirmation of reservation details, including dates and guest information.
Comparison of records with reported revenue for accuracy.

Tax Compliance:

Verification of tax registration and collection for applicable taxes (e.g., transient occupancy tax, sales tax).
Review of tax remittance records and confirmation of timely payments.
Compliance with any local tax reporting requirements.

Safety and Security:

Inspection of safety equipment, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits.
Evaluation of security measures, including keyless entry systems and surveillance cameras.
Compliance with safety guidelines for swimming pools, balconies, or other amenities.

Neighbor Relations:

Assessment of noise levels and adherence to quiet hours.
Review of any complaints or violations from neighboring properties.
Communication and responsiveness to concerns raised by neighbors.

Advertising and Marketing:

Review of advertisements and listings for accuracy and compliance.
Verification of accurate portrayal of amenities, property details, and pricing.
Ensuring compliance with any local rules or regulations regarding advertising.

Guest Communication and Support:

Evaluation of communication with guests, including responsiveness and clarity.
Verification of the provision of guest support and assistance during their stay.
Review of guest feedback and resolution of any issues or complaints.

Data and Reporting:

Collection of data on the number of bookings, revenue, and occupancy rates.
Analysis of trends and patterns to identify potential non-compliance or discrepancies.
Generation of reports summarizing audit findings and recommendations.

Using mobile eAuditor for this audit process enables auditors to efficiently capture and store information, take photos as evidence, and access relevant data in real-time. The eAuditor can include features such as validation checks, and customizable reporting templates. This ensures accuracy, consistency, and streamlined data collection and analysis. Additionally, the eAuditor can facilitate communication between auditors and property owners/managers, allowing for efficient resolution of any issues or violations identified during the audit.