VAWA Certification: What Can Landlords Legally Request? - The Fair Housing Institute, Inc.

VAWA Certification: What Can Landlords Legally Request?

In this episode of Fair Housing Insiders, we take a deep dive into VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) certification and what housing providers are legally allowed to request from residents seeking protection. Fair housing attorney Leslie Tucker joins Michael Coughlin to clarify the documentation process, address common mistakes, and emphasize the importance of written requests and staff training. Whether you manage a single site or multiple properties, understanding your obligations under VAWA is critical for legal compliance and protecting vulnerable residents.

Key Takeaways:

00:49 – Resident Rights and Acceptable VAWA Documentation

02:34 – When and How to Make a Documentation Request

03:46 – Why VAWA Training Should Be Part of Your Staff Education

05:18 – Common Legal Pitfalls to Avoid with VAWA Documentation

07:06 – Final Thoughts: Legal Risk and the Importance of Proper Procedure