During the month of April we celebrated Fair Housing Month. However, it is important that we remain alert to common mistakes. Here are some tips to share with your staff:

1. Know the seven Federal protected Classes.
2. Know the newest protected HUD Class: Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Marital Status.
3. Do not deny anyone the opportunity to apply for housing.
4. Do not deny any qualified applicant the opportunity to lease housing suitable to his or her needs.
5. Do not provide anyone housing that is different from housing provided to others
6. Do not steer.
7. Do not restrict access to any benefit enjoyed by others, or access to the same level of services others receive.
8. Do not deny any the opportunity to participate in a planning or advisory group that is an integral part of the housing program.
9. Do not discriminate in advertising.
10. Do not discriminate against someone because of that person’s relation to, or association with, another individual.
11. Do not retaliate against, threaten or act in any manner to intimidate someone because he/she has exercised his/her rights under the Fair Housing Act.
12. Think before you speak. A casual or flippant answer could be misinterpreted.
13. Concentrate your attention on the applicant or resident without interruptions.
14. Know the difference between a service animal and a pet.
15. Remember to verify the eligibility and not the disability.
16. Make sure all your materials include the Fair Housing Logo.
17. Don’t forget the TTY number on your printed material.
18. Review your understanding of “reasonable accommodation”.
19. Remind your residents of the Fair Housing Laws.
20. Review your City, County and State Fair Housing Laws (there may be additional protected classes).
21. Attend Fair Housing Training yearly.
22. Review the Fair Housing Laws with your entire staff.
23. Watch your reactions, body language and tone of voice to avoid being misinterpreted.
24. Remember if you do it for one, you do it for all.
25. Document, Document, Document!