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.