Comparison Testing

What is Testing?

Testing is a term used to describe the process of checking the housing market to determine the nature and extent of discriminatory treatment practiced against various homeseekers. Two or more individuals, similar in every respect other than the variable being tested, are sent to the same sales or rental office. Testers keep careful notes as to what transpires, and then record their experience on a standard report form. Differences in the treatment of testers often form the basis for successful resolution of a housing discrimination complaint.

Why Testing?

The testing process has been consistently supported by federal courts as a legitimate and necessary method to identify practices of unlawful housing discrimination. In the Greater Grand Rapids area, successful litigations filed by claimants have been based upon evidence obtained by Fair Housing Center testers.

How Do I Become A Tester?

Testers of both sexes are needed in all races, ethnic identities and ages.

Testers are actors and need to be able to feel comfortable playing the role of a homeseeker.

Testers need to be flexible, able to adjust to changing situation and still perform their assigned role as a homeseeker.

Testers are trained in testing procedures by experienced fair housing tester trainers, and follow specific tester assignments for each test.

Take on the challenging role of a tester by attending the next scheduled training session at the Fair Housing Center. For more information email: contact-us@fhcwm.org

Find out about our
Annual Fair Housing Luncheon & Workshop Series

20 Hall Street SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Tel: (616) 451-2980, Toll Free: 1-866-389-FAIR
Fax: (616) 451-2657 email: contact-us@fhcwm.org