Housing Counselor Certification (HUD) Practice Exam

Which action can be taken if a tenant believes they have experienced housing discrimination?

1. File a lawsuit immediately

2. Report to local authorities

3. Contact an attorney only

4. File a complaint with HUD

The correct answer is: File a complaint with HUD

When a tenant believes they have experienced housing discrimination, filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a crucial initial step. HUD is responsible for enforcing the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing. By filing a complaint with HUD, the tenant ensures that their situation is formally documented and investigated. This process allows HUD to assess the claim, gather evidence, and potentially mediate between the tenant and the alleged discriminator. If the investigation finds sufficient cause, HUD can take further action, including helping the tenant seek justice through conciliation or, in some cases, litigation. In contrast, while reporting to local authorities may provide some level of awareness about discrimination, it does not typically initiate a formal investigation or provide the same level of recourse offered through HUD. Contacting an attorney might be necessary at a later stage, especially if the tenant wishes to pursue a private lawsuit or needs legal representation, but it is not the immediate action recommended for reporting discrimination. Filing a lawsuit immediately would not be advisable without first exploring the administrative process through HUD, as legal proceedings can be complex and costly and can take significant time to resolve.