DOD obtains current data from multiple sources, employing a "checks and balances" approach to ensure reliability and accuracy. Current residential vacancies, identified in local newspapers and real estate rental listings, are an important source of data. Vacancies are selected at random, and subjected to the screening process, described above. Telephone interviews establish the availability and exact location of each unit sampled. DOD designed the sample to obtain a statistical confidence level of 95% or higher. They also contact apartment and real estate management companies to identify units for rental pricing. It is not uncommon for us to consult real estate professionals in a locality to obtain confirmation and additional sources of data. Where available, DOD contacts fort/post/base housing referral offices, to tap local military expertise and gain insights into the local concerns of assigned members. Finally, DoD and the Services conduct on-site evaluations at various locations to confirm and ensure reliability and accuracy of the cost data. Future enhancements include examining potential uses of the internet as well as housing data available from other government agencies.

DOD employs Runzheimer International to collect the nation-wide housing cost data that is used to compute BAH. Founded in 1933, Runzheimer is a recognized leader in the field of collecting cost of living data in the United States and around the world. Currently Runzheimer serves over 2000 businesses and governments worldwide and is renowned for its accurate and reliable research. Runzheimer’s private sector clients include over 60 percent of the Fortune 500 companies. Runzheimer’s government clients include the Department of Defense (DoD); the General Services Administrations (GSA); the Department of State; the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).