Question 22

Renting rooms to only adult men in an owner-occupied four-unit building is generally permissible under the federal Fair Housing Act and its Amendments.

This option is permissible because the Fair Housing Act allows certain exemptions for owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units, permitting the owner to restrict occupancy based on gender in these specific circumstances.

A) renting rooms to only adult men in an owner-occupied four-unit building

This option is correct as the Fair Housing Act includes an exemption for owner-occupied buildings with four units or fewer, allowing the owner to limit occupancy to a specific gender without violating the Act. This exemption acknowledges the personal nature of living arrangements in small, shared housing situations.

B) refusing to rent a luxury apartment to a woman with custody of her grandson

This option is incorrect because it constitutes discrimination based on familial status, which is prohibited under the Fair Housing Act. The Act protects individuals from being denied housing based on having children or guardianship, making this refusal unlawful.

C) advertising a condo online as being in a good Middle Eastern neighborhood

This option is incorrect as it may imply a preference for a specific racial or ethnic group, which can be viewed as discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act. Advertising in a way that suggests exclusivity based on national origin is not permissible.

D) requiring persons with disabilities to pay higher than usual security deposits

This option is incorrect because it discriminates against individuals with disabilities, violating the Fair Housing Act. The Act mandates that individuals with disabilities should not be subjected to higher fees or deposits than those without disabilities, ensuring equal treatment in housing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, option A is the only choice that aligns with the exemptions provided under the Fair Housing Act, making it permissible for owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units. All other options violate the Act by either discriminating against protected classes or implying exclusion based on characteristics such as familial status or disability.