pages: SocialServiceHumanRelationsBoard/2005-01-27.pdf, 2
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SocialServiceHumanRelationsBoard | 2005-01-27 | 2 | SSHRB Meeting Minutes, Thurs., January 27, 2005 Page 2 However, since it was not complaint-based, they had no basis to conduct specific testing. . Later, when they heard fears and concerns from Harbor Island Apartment (HIA) tenants seeking housing in the wake of the HIA terminations, they felt it was important to follow up to see if differential treatment was taking place. All testers participate in a practice test before going out on a paired test. When a test is conducted, the "protected" tester goes to tested unit first, followed by the "unprotected" tester. The testers are not told why they are going or what they are testing; they do not know each other nor do they ever see or communicate with each other. Following the rental application/interview both testers fill out their respective forms and are interviewed separately by Sentinel staff to determine if the protected tester got negative, discouraging information/feedback while the unprotected tester got positive and encouraging feedback. If a test involves a different agent or contact at the rental unit, the test is invalid and the responses are eliminated. Based on results of the test, Sentinel asks the client if they would like to pursue further action. The client will then file an administrative complaint with HUD Fair Housing and Employment Office (FHEO) and/or file a lawsuit. Less then 1% of all complaints get to this stage. A sample test was provided and Ms. Breed went over the sample, explaining the differences in questions, availability of units, and mannerisms when dealing with each tester, and differences in the terms and conditions of the lease. The sample demonstrated how a minority (protected) tester had been asked many more questions than the majority (unprotected) tester being asked only "when did she want to move in?" In the Alameda study, 25 complete tests and 25 complete analyses were conducted. Sentinel sent educational letters to owners/agents of units where discriminatory practices and/or differential treatment were found. The response from the rental property owners was good, and several large rental agencies including Gallagher and Lindsay and Harbor Bay Realty sponsored fair housing training for their own and other agents. About 50% of the individual rental property owners responded directly to Sentinel re: the education letter. In response to questions: Breed stated that: The methodology is not exactly the same across the U.S. but HUD approves each and every fair housing testing protocol; Fair housing training in response to a complaint is voluntary, except when it is required through a conciliation agreement or other order; Many people came to the trainings because they really weren't sure if/what they had done that was discriminatory; It has only been since 1988 that it is illegal for a landlord to say they won't rent to someone with children. An owner of a single-family home renting a room to one tenant is exempt from state fair housing law. In 2004, Sentinel dealt with 450 households, provided education for 10 property managers, and sponsored 12 education events. HUD does a "best practices" conference every year and Sentinel has been nominated for two awards. Dedicated to Excellence, Committed to Service | SocialServiceHumanRelationsBoard/2005-01-27.pdf |