In the property management industry, clear and effective communication is not just a skill—it’s a necessity. Ensuring compliance with fair housing laws and creating an inclusive environment means that the words used to describe communities must be chosen with care.
Even seemingly innocent phrases can have unintended consequences, potentially alienating prospective residents and putting a community at risk of non-compliance. In this series, we explore the top ten common fair housing phrases that should be avoided and provide suggestions for more inclusive language. Let’s consider the first five.
The Importance of Language in Fair Housing
Language is powerful, and in the context of fair housing, the way property managers communicate can significantly impact the perception of a community. While the intent behind certain statements may be harmless, their impact can be detrimental, resulting in legal consequences or excluding potential residents. By understanding the implications of certain phrases and adopting more inclusive alternatives, property managers can ensure their communities are welcoming to everyone.
1. “We are proudly American here.”
While expressing patriotism is not inherently negative, phrases that emphasize national identity can suggest a preference for certain groups, potentially discouraging those from different national origins. National origin is a protected category under fair housing laws, so it is best to avoid language that could be interpreted as discriminatory. Instead, focus on welcoming everyone, regardless of their background. For example, you could use phrases like “We celebrate diversity and welcome all” to convey a more inclusive message.
2. “We are an active adult community.”
This phrase may not seem discriminatory, but it implies that the community is exclusively for adults, which can create confusion about its accessibility to families with children. The Fair Housing Act only permits age-restricted housing under specific conditions for older persons, such as in communities where residents must be 55 or older in at least 80% of the units. Moreover, the word “active” could unintentionally suggest that individuals who are not physically active, perhaps due to a disability, may not be welcome. A better approach would be to highlight community features without implying age or activity restrictions. For instance, you could say, “Our community offers amenities and events for all ages and abilities.”
3. “We have stable residents with good jobs.”
Although this phrase might be intended to convey a sense of stability, it can also imply that individuals who are unemployed, retired, or unable to work due to a disability are not welcome. Instead, focus on what makes the community enjoyable for all residents. For instance, you could say, “Our residents love living here, which is why we have a high retention rate year after year.” This communicates stability without excluding anyone based on employment status, ensuring that all prospective residents feel equally valued.
4. “Unlike other areas, ours is a safe neighborhood.”
While safety is a major concern for prospective residents, guaranteeing safety can be problematic from a liability perspective. Rather than implying absolute safety, which no community can guarantee, describe the security measures in place, such as extra lighting, courtesy officers, or key-guarded entrances. This reassures prospective residents about the steps taken to enhance security without promising something impossible. A more appropriate statement might be, “Our community has implemented several measures to enhance security, including well-lit common areas and regular patrols.”
5. “This is an exclusive neighborhood.”
The term “exclusive” can have both positive and negative connotations. It might be used to mean “special” or “private,” but it could also imply that the community is restricted to certain groups, suggesting that others may not be welcome. This interpretation may raise concerns about potential discrimination based on race, nationality, familial status, or disability. To avoid misunderstandings, it’s better to highlight the community’s unique advantages, such as amenities or events, rather than using language that might suggest exclusion. For example, you could say, “Our community offers a unique blend of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.”
Fostering Inclusivity Through Thoughtful Communication
Effective communication is key to fostering an inclusive environment that complies with fair housing laws. By carefully choosing words, property managers can create welcoming communities that appeal to a diverse range of individuals. It’s crucial to remember that the intention behind a statement matters less than how it might be perceived by others. Always strive for language that emphasizes inclusivity and avoids inadvertently discouraging potential residents.
By understanding the impact of your words and making small adjustments, you can help ensure that your community is both compliant with fair housing regulations and a welcoming place for all. Stay tuned for more insights on fair housing and practical communication strategies to ensure your community remains inclusive, compliant, and a great place to live.
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