April 2015 Coach's Quiz

We’ve reviewed some recent court cases to show how communities have fared in defending themselves from fair housing claims. Now you can take the Coach’s Quiz to see what you have 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

Owners may be liable for discriminatory statements made by their agents and employees. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

QUESTION #2

Once a resident moves out, you don’t need to keep his paperwork. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

QUESTION #3

You could be accused of discrimination if it looks like you’re lying about availability when minority prospects inquire about housing. True or false?

a.   True.

b.   False.

COACH’S ANSWERS & EXPLANATIONS

QUESTION #1

Correct answer: a

Remember the case about the owner who authorized his friend to handle the front desk and answer the phone? The same problem could come up if you allow new hires or untrained employees to answer your phones. To the public, they would appear to be acting on your behalf, so you could be called to account for any discriminatory statements they make since you put them in that position. Be sure to provide new hires with some basic fair housing training on day one—before allowing them to interact with the public on the phone or in person.

QUESTION #2

Correct answer: b

Remember the case about the resident who sued the community for refusing to provide her with hotel accommodations during mold remediation? Keep the records for as long as possible because you could face a fair housing claim long after a resident moves out. In general, the Fair Housing Act requires that complaints to HUD must be filed within one year of the occurrence or termination of the alleged discriminatory act; and it’s two years if the resident decides to file a lawsuit in court. But the deadline can be extended for various reasons, so check with your attorney before getting rid of old records.

QUESTION #3

Correct answer: a

Remember the case involving the students inquiring about housing at a community near their college? You could be accused of discrimination if prospects think you’re giving them false or inaccurate information about availability because of their race or other protected characteristics. Maintain systems to accurately reflect current apartment availability—and check it before telling prospects about vacancies—to ensure that you’re giving correct information when responding to inquiries about available units.