Even if you have done all the above steps and are sure of your fair housing compliance, how you proceed with raising rents can mitigate a potential disgruntled resident. Let’s face it, no one is going to jump up and down about their bills going up. RAISING RENT - BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE TO AVOID COMPLAINTS Here are a few things you can do to help:
• Give plenty of notice
• Offer incentives or upgrades
• Ensure staff are thoroughly trained to educate and de-escalate any situations if a resident demands to know why their rent is going up
HOW YOU PROCEED WITH RAISING RENTS CAN MITIGATE A POTENTIAL DISGRUNTLED RESIDENT.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, while rent increases are a common practice in the housing industry, property management companies must be cautious to avoid violating fair housing laws. Discrimination in housing based on protected class status is prohibited under the Fair Housing Act, and properties that choose to implement rent increases must ensure they do not disproportionately affect protected classes. By being transparent and consistent with your policies and practices, along with ongoing training and education for staff you can successfully avoid any fair housing dangers while raising rents.
KATHELENE WILLIAMS Attorney and President The Fair Housing Institute
Kathi Williams is one of the founders of Fair Housing Institute. FHI is the accomplished vision of Kathi who views its educational courses as the best method housing providers can use to accomplish compliance and avoid litigation. Kathi is also a partner in the Law Firm of Williams Edelstein Tucker, P.C. providing defense and preventative representation for the housing industry in all civil rights matters. During the many decades Kathi has been advising her housing provider clients, she developed a unique understanding of the most effective methods of communicating fair housing best practices through training. Click here to watch Fair Housing Educational Videos.
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