Help us fight housing discrimination…become a fair housing tester. Testing is similar to “secret shopper” programs used in the retail industry.
What is Testing?
Fair Housing tests measure the quality, quantity and content of information provided to potential renters and homebuyers based on protected classes under the Fair Housing Act.
The U.S. Supreme Court, Department of Justice, and HUD have recognized that sometimes unlawful housing practices can only be uncovered through testing. Testers can make the difference when it comes to moving a case forward.
What do Testers do?
Testers pose as renters or home-buyers in order to help collect data for a fair housing investigation. Testers meet with landlords, property managers and real estate agents. A factual report of the events is then compiled by the Tester. Tests are conducted throughout the service area covered by the Appalachian Ohio Fair Housing Center.
The Tester’s experience is then compared to the experience of a partner tester who is alike in every respect except the protected class: race or color, national origin, religion, gender, familial status or disability. The reports are analyzed by program staff and the results either support or dispel allegations of discrimination.
Some examples of discrimination uncovered in fair housing testing include:
- Failure to waive a “no pets” rule (denial of request for reasonable accommodation) for a service animal;
- Charging higher rent or security deposits for potential tenants with children; and
- Falsely denying availability of an advertised rental unit.
Why Become a Tester?
In some cases, testers may be paid a stipend.
Training will be scheduled at a location near you and tests can generally be arranged to fit into your schedule.
Sounds great! How do I become a tester?
If you would like to join the testing team and begin making a difference in your community, contact us at info@appalachianohiofairhousing.org to apply to become a tester.
Each tester must complete classroom training and a practice test before being given a real assignment. Training will be scheduled at a location near you and tests can generally be arranged to fit into your schedule.
Tester Qualifications
Ideal testers have excellent observations skills and are comfortable recording their thoughts in writing. Access to transportation, phone, and computer are also preferred.
Testers are considered paid volunteers. Testers are called on an as needed basis and may be asked to perform several tests in one month, with no tests in the following months. Testing is not a part-time job.