INSIDER
The KPRC 2 Investigation into the Houston Housing Authority (HHA) and its misuse of tax dollars has led to the resignation of its president and CEO, David Northern. Last month, we reported that Northern agreed to resign in a settlement with the HHA. Now, we’ve obtained a copy of that settlement, and the details may surprise you.
It’s a nightmare scenario: discovering your home has been stolen from you without any warning. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis has been delving into cases like these for years, uncovering the unsettling reality of property fraud.
We are hearing from dozens of Houston water bill customers who say they need help with sudden surprise bills. The KPRC 2 ‘DRAINED’ Investigation has been looking into water bill issues in Houston for 2+ years.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire committed to addressing the city’s water billing and meter reading issues, problems that were first exposed two years ago in the KPRC 2 ‘DRAINED’ Investigation. As the year-end deadline for his Water Bill Improvement Plan approaches, some Houston residents are experiencing new frustrations with their water bills.
Telemarketing calls can be disruptive, and many of you have recently reported receiving calls from individuals claiming to work for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These callers aren’t trying to sell you anything—they’re asking a lot of questions. KPRC’s Amy Davis looked into the legitimacy of these calls after receiving several herself.
You may soon notice a change in your water bill. Mayor John Whitmire announced that the city’s water department is ahead of schedule in replacing broken remote-read sensors attached to residential water meters.
People who live near a Channelview chemical plant say they noticed a strange, metallic smell Saturday morning. They called KPRC 2 News when firefighters on-scene at the K-Solv chemical plant wouldn’t tell them what was causing the smell.
KPRC 2 Investigates is looking into allegations that the Houston Housing Authority (HHA) is out of money to support low-income Houston families in paying rent. At the same time Investigative Reporter Amy Davis looks into substantial pay raises for the HHA executive team.
Dozens of Houston residents recently received unexpected medical bills totaling thousands of dollars for COVID tests they took back in 2020 and 2021. These bills represent balances that insurance companies did not cover, leaving patients questioning if they are required to pay these old charges.
KPRC 2′s investigative team has been named a finalist for the prestigious DuPont-Columbia Award for their hard-hitting series “DRAINED,” which uncovered severe issues within the Houston water department.
CenterPoint Energy announced late Friday it would proceed with its long-disputed rate review, ongoing since August. Alongside this announcement, the energy company presented a proposal to increase rates, aiming to recover costs from its response to severe weather in May.
As KPRC 2 Investigates the Houston Housing Authority we have uncovered a culture of intimidation and secretive deals designed to keep you in the dark. Investigative reporter Amy Davis shines a light on the practices keeping former employees silent.
The Houston Housing Authority is facing a double crisis. A recent ransomware attack has compromised their network, and their CEO is on leave amid investigations into suspicious contracts.
CEO David Northern is now on administrative leave after revelations of incomplete renovations and soaring project costs.
KPRC 2 Investigates' deep dive into questionable contracts at the Houston Housing Authority revealed the agency paid some small businesses millions with no significant work history millions of dollars. One contractor explains how he was caught up in a scheme to pay a Chicago clothing company for work he did.
A KPRC 2 investigation into the Houston Housing Authority (HHA) has exposed a series of questionable contracts and projects, prompting calls for accountability from the public. Now, Investigator Amy Davis uncovered changes to the CEO’s contract before the old one expired.
KPRC 2 and our partners at Energy Transfer, Houston Christian University and Exclusive Furniture are featuring The Restoration Team and the incredible work they do to help families around Houston with home repairs after natural disasters.
Houston’s Investigative team is not stopping anytime soon. The KPRC 2 Investigation into questionable Houston Housing Authority contracts has uncovered a bizarre business hired to help in Houston. Investigator Amy Davis has part three of the deep dive into contracts costing us millions of dollars.
The KPRC 2 Investigators are looking into questionable projects orchestrated by the Houston Housing Authority.
Public trust, private deals. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis continues the investigation into the Houston Housing Authority’s questionable contracts. The latest project in question: A deal to install window AC units at three Houston housing projects.
The Houston Housing Authority provides housing and services to tens of thousands of low-income people and families in our city using mostly federal tax dollars. But some people are worried the money meant to pay for improvements to Houston housing developments may not be going where it is supposed to.
Following CenterPoint Energy CEO Jason Wells exclusive interview with KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding, KPRC 2′s Amy Davis brought in five Houston community members to gauge how they feel about Wells responses.
Residents across Houston have been reaching out, sharing concerns about ongoing mail delivery problems, especially broken or damaged cluster mailboxes. We understand the frustration, and thanks you to change is happening. Our team, led by KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis, has uncovered the extent of the issue, prompting a fresh response from lawmakers.
As you receive your latest electric bill, you may notice it’s higher than usual. It’s not just the summer weather that may have caused the higher bill. This increase is due to a CenterPoint rate hike that took effect on September 1st. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis explains what this means for you.
Despite previous warnings, jury duty scams are still targeting people. Recently, a KPRC 2 viewer shared a suspicious call she received. Investigator Amy Davis has what you need to know to stay safe.
A California-based parking company, Metropolis, which manages several parking garages and lots in Houston, is under fire for allegedly tricking drivers into paying exorbitant fees.
The Texas Public Utility Commission has yet again delayed a decision on CenterPoint Energy’s rates that we all pay on our electric bills.
When you move out of your apartment, you probably expect to use your security deposit for other expenses. But what can you do if your landlord refuses to return it without any explanation? This is the situation KPRC 2 viewer Shavon found herself in, and Amy Davis has the answer.
Over half of Houston’s residents are renters, many living in apartment complexes scattered across the city. For those who pay their water bill to their landlord rather than directly to the water department, disputing discrepancies in the bill can become a complex and frustrating process.
Who is responsible for picking up utility mess debris left behind? KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis works to find answers to your questions.
Saving on electricity means turning off devices and lights and bumping up your thermostat to a temperature some of you may think is uncomfortable. Many of you don’t do it because you don’t know how much you can save. There is an easy way to track your usage and see how small changes to your routine can save you money on your electric bill.
A judge has denied CenterPoint Energy’s request to dismiss their rate review. The company must now return to the table with city leaders to negotiate new rates that we all pay on our electric bill. Investigative reporter Amy Davis explains why CenterPoint is accused of overcharging all of us for years.
A judge has denied CenterPoint Energy's request to dismiss its mandatory rate review, which could lead to lower electric rates. The utility must now appeal or negotiate with cities claiming it overcharges customers by over $100 million annually. Tune in to KPRC 2 News at 6 a.m. Tuesday, where Investigative Reporter Amy Davis will explain how this decision might affect your electric bill and when you could see potential savings.
Today is the deadline for CenterPoint to respond to allegations that it has overcharged customers for years. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis has been following the developments on this case.
Everywhere you drive around Houston you can still see tree limbs and branches piled up along streets and curbs. Five weeks have passed since Hurricane Beryl blew through the area taking down thousands of trees. And some of you are asking when the city will finish the job of getting it all cleaned up. Investigator Amy Davis is getting answers.
Cash App customers may be able to claim $2,500 each as part of a $15 million settlement for data and security breaches.
The KPRC 2 'DRAINED' investigation into inaccurate and outrageous water bills got big results this past April. Now four months into the Houston Mayor's plan to fix the water billing issues we wanted to know if it's working. What's changed? And who's in charge of fixing all of the problems we exposed? KPRC 2 Investigative reporter Amy Davis is looking out for you as she checks the city's progress in correcting the water problems draining so many of you.
Patrece Lee, the former Houston Public Works manager, admitted to lying to the inspector general's office about one of the emergency water repair contractors she awarded millions to being her relative.
'DRAINED' Investigation fallout. Court records now reveal Patrece used some of the money she got in kickbacks for a so-called charity she also set up. Investigator Amy Davis is taking you inside the charity to show you where some of your tax dollars went.
A new charge has been filed against a former city manager at the center of a contract corruption scandal in Houston.
A lot of us in the Houston area are still dealing with damage left by Hurricane Beryl. Some renters are asking Amy Davis how long their landlords have to fix damage caused by the storm. Amy is answering your questions about renters’ rights after Beryl.
Homeowner charged for electricity usage during the power outage. How did that happen? KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis looks for answers and explains how you can check your own usage during the recent power outage days.
We are hearing from more of you about issues with power outages way before Hurricane Beryl slammed the Houston area. A Kingwood customer contacted Investigator Amy Davis after she complained about frequent and unexplained power outages in her neighborhood.
Hurricane Beryl ripped down powerlines all over Houston. But what about the powerlines that already had overgrown trees and branches in the way? It didn't help the situation! KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis looks into who is supposed to clear out tree branches around powerlines and what you can do if you have the same issues in your neighborhood.
Many of you will soon be dealing with insurance claims and repairs. Should you hire a person to help you deal with the insurance company? Amy Davis explains everything you need to know about public adjusters - what they can do for you and how much you can expect to pay.
We are hearing more from one of the main people charged in the city of Houston contract corruption scandal. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis was in court today for the latest developments in the case was first brought to light because of the KPRC ‘DRAINED’ Investigation.
As power is restored to homes and businesses across our area many of you say you still don’t have internet. AT&T and Comcast Xfinity customer service are difficult to reach and when you do get a human on the phone, they don’t have any answers. Investigative reporter Amy Davis is answering your questions about what’s causing internet outages and what you can do about them.
Many of you are mad and emailing and calling us. You are demanding to know what is taking CenterPoint so long and why it is taking longer and longer to restore power after recent major weather events?
Generators are crucial during power outages but can be dangerous if not used correctly. Learn how to avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards with expert tips from fire officials.
Why are electricity rates so high? When will they go down? What’s the best way to save money on electricity rates? Electric broker Mike Harrington with American Enerpower joins Amy to discuss electricity rates and your power bill.
Choosing a new electric plan, comparing rates and fees can be complicated. It’s why some customers pay an electric broker or a third party to find the lowest rates. But some customers say their energy company is threatening to cancel their contracts because they signed up with the help of a broker. KPRC 2 Investigative reporter Amy Davis is asking - can they do that?
The KPRC 2 ‘DRAINED’ Investigation is getting big results! You may know last month seven people were charged in a water line repair scandal, after Amy Davis exposed shady contract dealings. This is after the entire Houston water department changed the way they bill Houston customers. All of this is in addition to the massive amount of money Amy and the team have helped get back for customers with high and confusing water bills.
A small change to prevent another multi-million-dollar corruption scandal like the one KPRC 2 Investigates exposed in the Houston water department. Our ‘DRAINED’ investigation led to seven criminal indictments. Investigative reporter Amy Davis went to the Houston city council meeting to find out about the new change to city processes.
A Fifth Ward resident claims despite shutting off her own water, fearing a high bill, she still owes $4,168.67.
We don’t have to tell you driving in Houston can be rough. There are accidents every single day. If you’ve been in an accident, you know the process can be frustrating and complicated. Amy Davis answers questions about what to do after you’ve been involved in a crash.
"🌩️ Getting ready for storm season? 🌩️ Don't wait until it's too late! Check out these 4 essential tips from Investigator Amy Davis on what you can do now to prepare for the next storm in Houston. From insurance coverage to documenting your belongings, these steps can save you a lot of trouble. #StormPreparation #HoustonStorms"
💣 Shocking revelations have come to light about a corruption scandal involving waterline repair contracts in Houston. Investigative journalist Amy Davis with KPRC 2 Investigates has been at the forefront, uncovering the truth behind the shady deals that cost taxpayers millions of dollars.🔍 Several defendants have been charged with bribery, abuse of official capacity, and tampering with government documents. This case continues to unfold, and with ongoing investigations, more people may be implicated.
It’s possible with the recent storms that you have new damage on your roof. That’s just one reason you may want to consider getting a roof replacement. KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis explains, waiting may mean to have to pay a lot more when it does come time for a new roof.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire responds to corruption charges against seven people in a city water line repair scandal uncovered during KPRC 2's 'DRAINED' investigation.
A major break in our ‘DRAINED’ Investigation into the City of Houston water department. Seven people at the center of the waterline repair contract scandal KPRC 2 Investigates exposed are charged with bribery, abuse of official capacity and tampering with government documents.
Texas is the only Gulf State that doesn’t license roofers. Anybody can call themselves a roofer. That’s why you have to protect yourself. Investigator Amy Davis has a list of what you should ask before hiring a roofing contractor.
No lights, no air conditioner, no nothing. If you were one of the 900,000 people who lost electricity for several days this month you might expect your next bill to be slightly lower than normal. One man in the Heights called us when he noticed his account showed he was using electricity on days when that was impossible. Investigative reporter Amy Davis explains you how to check your own account.
🚨 Attention 🚨 Did you lose all your food during a recent power outage and don't have insurance? We've got you covered! Check out our latest article on how you can get reimbursed for the food you lost, even without insurance. #PowerOutage #Reimbursement #FoodAssistance #HoustonStrong 💪🏼💡
Who pays for tree damage caused by the storm? Is there a way to register your home for priority electric service? Investigator Amy Davis is working to find answers to your storm related questions. We know a lot of you are dealing with clean-up from trees down in your neighborhood.
If you are still without power in the Houston area, chances are all the food in your fridge is about to go bad. We all know food is expensive and there could be hundreds of dollars lost if you have to throw it out. So, can you get money back for spoiled food during a storm?
After nearly two years of dogged reporting in our investigation of water bills “draining” Houstonians the city of Houston has made big changes. Investigative reporter Amy Davis is taking you back and following up with the very first water customer we introduced you to see how he’s doing 18 months later.
We know a lot of you are paying more for your medical bills with added ‘facility fees’. Some seeing hundreds of dollars in charges above your co-pay. Investigator Amy Davis has heard from a lot of you about these fees after the KPRC 2 Investigation earlier this month. In this week’s Ask Amy episode, Amy talked to experts about these fees and what you can do about it.
Last year in Houston alone thieves stole about 55 vehicles a day. That’s more than two every hour. It’s why we use car alarms, lock our doors and do our best to protect our property. And when you leave your car at a repair shop you expect them to take the same precautions. Investigative reporter Amy Davis is looking into what happens when they don’t and who’s responsible.
From fines and fees to unexplained expenses we commonly hear your complaints about issues some of you are having with your homeowner’s association. Investigator Amy Davis is getting answers to your HOA related questions with Attorney David Kahne. He represents homeowners in battles against their HOA’s.
We are hearing from a lot of you who have sticker shock when it comes to insurance rates right now. And that’s if the company will even renew you. A lot of people are being denied insurance coverage. In this week’s Ask Amy, Amy Davis looks into what’s going on with rates and how technology is playing a bigger role in determining how much you will pay.
The woman at the helm of Houston Public Works (HPW) and the center of KPRC 2 Investigates 2-year-long DRAINED investigation into outrageous water bills, is stepping down.
A major life change like divorce can be stressful and expensive. There are common myths about divorce that can cost you a lot of money. For an episode of Ask Amy, Amy Davis talks with a lawyer who helps women navigate divorce and the top divorce myths that could cost you.
If you haven’t received your April water bill from the City of Houston, you may be pleasantly surprised. Several customers reached out to Investigative reporter Amy Davis curious about why they received credits to their bills. We are explaining why water customers are getting money back and what to look for on your own bill.
Houston water customers DRAINED from inaccurate, exorbitant bills are hopeful the mayor’s new plan to fix the problems will work. But many of you have questions about the process. Investigative reporter Amy Davis has answers to your most common water bill plan questions.
There are a lot of communities in Houston where families live for generations. Often times there are issues with property deeds and home ownership. In this week’s Ask Amy, Amy Davis has what you can do now to prevent a big problem a lot of Houstonians face.
Houston’s latest water rate increase took effect April 1st. The city said the average customer will notice about a 9% increase in their monthly bill. Investigative reporter Amy Davis crunched the numbers to show you what it looks like on real accounts and she’s sharing what the city may do with the extra money.
What can you do if a company won’t honor a warranty? What’s the one question you should always ask a contractor? From home warranties to hiring contractors Amy Davis is getting answers to common questions you ask.
After nearly two years of KPRC 2 Investigates DRAINED series exposing failures at the Houston Water Department, Mayor John Whitmire announces major changes. This comes a few weeks after Mayor Whitmire talked with Amy Davis about the ongoing issues and his work to find solutions for people.
The KPRC 2 ‘DRAINED’ Investigation is helping people get to the bottom of water bill issues in Houston. Investigator Amy Davis has gotten questions from renters about water bills. Often if you live in an apartment you know water bills can be unpredictable. One month it’s high and the next month it’s low. Here’s a way to determine what you actually owe for your water bill.
While Houston homeowners struggle with inaccurate, seemingly impossible water bills we are hearing from landlords and renters who say they are ‘DRAINED’. Investigative reporter Amy Davis is getting to the bottom of one apartment complex water bill that - if unresolved- could leave renters homeless.
Discover what to do when a utility company leaves damage behind on your property. Investigative reporter Amy Davis shares insights on how to get information and seek compensation for property damage caused by utility crews.
It’s something every person will probably have to deal with at some point. We are talking about paying funeral costs for your loved one or planning ahead for yourself. Amy Davis talks with the “Funeral Negotiator” about how to keep funeral costs down.
Got a high water bill you don’t think you owe? A lot of you are asking Amy Davis what you should do about it. Her answer has changed from what she told many of you last year.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire is sharing new details about a plan to help frustrated water customers. He gave an exclusive interview to Investigative reporter Amy Davis. ‘DRAINED’ has been investigating the water department for nearly two years trying to help many of you deal with excessive and confusing water bills. But we wanted to know, who will be in charge?
After a year+ of KPRC's DRAINED Investigation, we are learning of big changes to help customers frustrated by water bill issues in Houston.
For the first time in nearly six years a Houston victim of hurricane Harvey is waking up in her own bed in a brand new home. It wasn’t just the floodwaters that kept Julia Benjamin from getting back home. A $39,000 City of Houston water bill almost kept her from getting the new home she qualified for from the Texas General Land office.
While Houston water customers wait for relief from inaccurate and unexplained high water bills that’s left them ‘DRAINED,’ KPRC 2 Investigates has discovered the head of Houston Public Works, memorializing the department with trinkets we’re all paying for.
Good news for our electric bills. On March 1st the rates we all pay are going down. Investigative reporter Amy Davis gets these electric rate questions from many of you. She explains the price drop and how much you can expect to save.
For weeks now - we’ve been following these problems. The United States Postal Service says this is because they are working to modernize their mailing system. U.S. Representative Al Green talked with KPRC 2′s Amy Davis about how the hold-up could impact voters.
When you’re sick or in pain and you need a doctor quickly you probably don’t stop to check rates for how much an ambulance ride to the nearest hospital will cost you. But did you know 1 out of every 4 ambulance rides results in a surprise bill for thousands of dollars? It’s why a new law bans surprise ambulance bills in Texas. Investigative reporter Amy Davis explains who is protected and what you should do anytime you get a bill from an ambulance service.
From groceries to bills, we all know just about everything is more expensive these days. Financial Coach Connie Portlas talks with Amy Davis about how to do a money reset to hopefully save money in your budget.
You smell the flowers in the store and see the heart-shaped candy and gifts. This is the time of year when people may feel extra lonely and more vulnerable to fall for romance scams. Amy Davis warns that there’s a new twist on the old romance scams you’ve heard about.
