January 2014 Coach's Quiz

We’ve covered 11 FAQs about state and local fair housing laws. Now let’s look at how the rules might apply in the real world. Take the COACH’s Quiz to see what you’ve learned.

INSTRUCTIONS: Each of the following questions has only one correct answer. On a separate piece of paper, write down the number of each question, followed by the answer you think is correct—for example, (1) b, (2) a, and so on. The correct answers (with explanations) follow the quiz. Good luck!

QUESTION #1

Your community could be accused of a fair housing violation if you treat unmarried couples differently than married couples—even if you do so based on religious objections. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

QUESTION #2

In most states with fair housing protections based on sexual orientation, it’s also unlawful to discriminate against transgender applicants or residents. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

QUESTION #3

If state or local law bans discrimination based on source of income, then you could face a discrimination claim for refusing to accept applicants with Section 8 vouchers. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

QUESTION #4

While screening an applicant, you learn about frequent complaints and police calls about domestic disturbances at her former residences. To prevent similar problems at your community, you can deny her application without violating any fair housing laws. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

COACH’S ANSWERS & EXPLANATIONS

QUESTION #1

Correct answer: a

Reason: FAQ #1 applies here:

FAQ #1: Does My State Prohibit Discrimination Based on Marital Status?

In most states that ban discrimination based on marital status, you could trigger a fair housing complaint for denying housing based on whether applicants are married or not. In a few states, however, the courts have ruled that the marital status provisions don’t require owners to rent to unmarried couples when doing so violates their religious convictions.

QUESTION #2

Correct answer: a

Reason: FAQ #5 applies here:

FAQ #5: Does My State Ban Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity?

In all but four of the states that currently ban discrimination based on sexual orientation, fair housing laws also cover gender identity or expression. Sometimes, the term “transgender” is used to refer to gender identity and gender expression, which generally refers to an individuals’ gender-related identity, appearance, or expression, regardless of their gender at birth.

QUESTION #3

Correct answer: a

Reason: FAQ #6 applies here:

FAQ #6: Does My State Prohibit Discrimination Based on Source of Income?

Before turning away Section 8 voucher holders, you’ll have to get legal advice about the particulars of any applicable state or local fair housing laws based on source of income. Many, though not all, also cover federal, state, and local housing subsidies, including Section 8 vouchers.

QUESTION #4

Correct answer: b

Reason: FAQ #8 applies here:

FAQ #8: Does My State Ban Discrimination Based on Domestic Violence?

You could trigger a discrimination complaint if your community is subject to state or local fair housing laws that protect domestic violence victims. Even if you’re not, you should check to see if there are any other state or local laws that prohibit landlords from denying housing because of a history of being a domestic violence victim.