August 2009 Special Issue Coach's Quiz

We have summarized some recent court decisions on fair housing law. Now let's look at how the rules might apply in the real world. 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

What should you do if a resident complains about racially discriminatory comments and conduct by the resident in a neighboring unit?

1. Nothing; you cannot be held liable under the FHA.

2. Warn the resident to stop bothering you with complaints about neighborhood squabbles.

3. Investigate, and if warranted, take steps to address the problem.

QUESTION #2

In December, a resident sets up a large Christmas display with both religious and secular decorations in the hallway outside his unit. Your community has rules barring residents from placing or storing personal possessions in the hallway. When you ask the resident to remove the display, he refuses and accuses you of religious discrimination. What should you do?

1. Remove the display as permitted under your rules.

2. Remove only the nonreligious items, but leave the religious decorations in place.

3. Leave the display alone.

QUESTION #3

To address complaints about teenagers hanging around your parking lot, your community would not violate fair housing law by adopting a rule forbidding families from entertaining underage guests unless a parent is present. True or false?

1. True.

2. False.