Resident Application and Move-In Evaluation: Having a Clear and Measurable Process, Part 3

Third, a clear and measurable application and evaluation process reduces your risk of discrimination.

While you may not intend to discriminate, using an application process that allows you to treat applicants differently based on undefined circumstances may lead to you inadvertently treat some groups of people differently from others. Having a clear application process ensures that you are treating all applicants equally, without regard to their race, ethnicity, religious background, gender or other protected class.

Having a clear application process helps you create an equitable environment in recovery housing. Equity is about more than simply not discriminating against someone because of their race, ethnicity or disability. Equity is about taking proactive steps to make sure that all people feel welcome, safe and respected within your program. A well-defined application process can communicate your values and commitment to equity. For example, you can ensure that all residents who are seeking to move into the recovery home are prepared to live with individuals who are different from them and are willing to respect any cultural or other differences.

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Additional Resources:

Watch Understanding Fair Housing: Training for Landlords, Property Managers and Realtors (46:08) from HUD.

Watch the HUD playlist on fair housing.