What is the purpose of a resident screening policy, and which factors are legally restricted?

• A. To assess risk and ensure safety; cannot base decisions on protected characteristics; rely on credit, rental history, and income; avoid stigmatizing groups.
• B. To maximize profits by approving tenants with the highest income.
• C. To subject applicants to credit checks only.
• D. To hire outside agencies to screen tenants.

Answer: (A)

A resident screening policy is about evaluating applicants for rent-paying ability and potential risk to the property, using objective data and consistent procedures to protect residents and the building.

The legally restricted factors are protected characteristics; decisions cannot be based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. Instead, use objective information such as credit history, rental history, and verified income to assess reliability and ability to pay. Applying the same criteria to all applicants helps prevent discrimination and stigmatization of groups.

Other options miss essential elements, like focusing only on profits or relying on a single data point, which doesn’t address risk or legal compliance.