Iowa Civil Rights Commission 1995/96 Community Testing Project Le Mars Press Release

Press Release from: IOWA CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 5-12-95

Contact Person: Don Grove, Executive Director, 515-281- 8084

Iowa Civil Rights Commission Conducts Housing Tests in Le Mars

On April 27 and 28, 1995 the Iowa Civil Rights Commission conducted 18 housing tests in Le Mars, Iowa. The Commission sent testers to landlords and realtors to see whether the testers would be treated differently because of their race, family status, or disability. Six tests showed possible violations of state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

In the first test, the tester asked the realtor / manager if she could install grab bars in the bathroom at her own expense. The manager was not sure and said she would have to check with her boss. Fair Housing Law allows tenants to make modifications to their rental units to accommodate their disability. These modifications are done at the tenant's expense. Property owners have the responsibility to educate their property managers and representatives as to the Fair Housing Laws.

In the second case the African American tester inquired about rental property at a realty office. The tester was told that nothing was available. The White tester arrived 45 minutes later and was told about a house for rent. Stating that a rental property is not available when it is available for rent is in violation of Iowa Code § 216.8A(2).

The third case showed possible discrimination against families. The ad in the local paper stated "mobile home for 1 or 2 people". The mobile home was large enough for three people. The wording of the ad could discourage families with children from inquiring about the mobile home. When the owner was contacted she repeatedly mentioned how small the unit was. She also made the comment that there wasn't much for children to do at the trailer court. These remarks could discourage families from moving there. It is up to a prospective tenant to decide the suitability of a rental property not the owner or property manager.

Two additional cases also dealt with questionable language in the advertisements. Both ads said " 1 bedroom apartments suitable for 1 person". The rule of thumb is to allow two persons per average sized bedroom. The two persons could be two adults or an adult and child.