Fair Housing Insiders

ESAs and leash laws

Unleashing Fair Housing: ESAs, Leash Laws, and Unreasonable Accommodations

In the world of property management, one of the most frequent and often misunderstood topics is the regulation of emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals within housing communities. Many property managers and residents alike grapple with questions about leash laws, community policies, and state laws that may seem to conflict with fair housing regulations. […]

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Episode 112 - Reasonable Accommodations When Should You Ask for Verification

Reasonable Accommodations: When Should You Ask for Verification?

Fair housing compliance is a critical aspect of property management, particularly when it comes to reasonable accommodations for residents with disabilities. Housing providers must navigate requests with sensitivity while ensuring they meet legal requirements. A key consideration is determining when to ask for verification, when modifications should be made proactively, and how to approach eviction

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How To Handle Appeals When an Applicant is Denied

How To Handle Appeals When an Applicant Is Denied

Handling appeals related to housing application denials due to criminal history screening is a nuanced responsibility for property managers. These cases require balancing compliance with fair housing laws, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, and providing fair and equitable treatment to applicants.  By understanding the key considerations and implementing best practices, property management

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Unreasonable Accommodations – Is There Such a Thing? Part 2

In the world of property management, the topic of reasonable and unreasonable modifications often arises. One particularly common area of concern is flooring modifications, which can present challenges when determining compliance with fair housing laws. Let’s explore what constitutes a reasonable modification, how to handle requests, and the differences in obligations between conventional and federally

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From the Tradeshow Floor: Top Property Management Misunderstandings

Navigating fair housing laws can be challenging, but avoiding common misunderstandings is crucial for property managers who want to protect their communities and their careers. These laws are designed to ensure everyone has equal access to housing opportunities, but myths and outdated practices can lead even well-meaning professionals astray. After connecting with property managers across

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Say this not that in fair housing

Top Ten Fair Housing Phrases – Say This, Not That – Part 1

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

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HUD Guidance – Credit and Eviction Screening

On May 2nd, 2024, HUD announced new notices in a press release about not only AI but credit and eviction screening processes. In past episodes, we have discussed a brief overview of these notices as well as a deeper look into the criminal history screening update.  In this special episode, we share critical insights with

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Fair Housing – Business or Personal?

In the world of property management, making the right decisions can sometimes feel like a delicate balancing act. Especially when it comes to fair housing laws, which require a combination of knowledge, emotional control, and a strong focus on compliance. However, it’s crucial to remember that fair housing decisions must always be approached from a

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Is it a Disability? Part 6 – Chemical Sensitivities

In today’s housing landscape, property managers and leasing professionals often encounter requests for reasonable accommodations based on various disabilities. One area that can lead to confusion is how to handle claims related to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). This article explores how chemical sensitivity may qualify as a disability under fair housing laws and outlines the

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