Fair Housing Tester

The Fair Housing Center of West Michigan is looking for volunteer home seekers (Testers) to participate in apartment showings, open houses, or other remote experiences that help us research and investigate claims of illegal discrimination. 

What is Testing?

Testing is a term used to describe the process of assessing the housing market to determine the nature and extent of discriminatory treatment practiced against home seekers. Two or more individuals, similar in every respect other than the variable being tested, are tasked with contacting (in-person or by phone) 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 form the basis for successful resolution of a housing discrimination complaint. The test variable is not disclosed to testers and testers are given an alias to maintain anonymity. Testers are paid a stipend for each test with generous mileage reimbursement.

Minimum Qualifications

A tester must be at least 18 years of age and possess the capability to be an impartial, attentive, accurate, and credible witness. Testers must have access to an email and phone and must be comfortable traveling locally and/or speaking over the phone. 

Why Testing?

The testing process has been consistently supported by federal courts as a legitimate and necessary method to identify unlawful housing discrimination. In West Michigan, successful litigations filed by claimants have been based on evidence obtained by FHCWM testers.

How do I Become a Tester?

Take on the role of a tester by attending a remote training session. If you are interested in attending the next training, contact Jordan Orr, Test Coordinator, at (616) 330-2090 or jorr@fhcwm.org.