Fair housing testing is a critical investigative tool used to gather information about housing practices, specifically whether housing providers are engaging in housing discrimination. Testing allows SouthCoast Fair Housing (“SCFH”) to measure and document differences in the quality, content, and quantity of information and services provided to persons seeking apartments or other types of housing.

Fair Housing Testers can be described as “secret shoppers,” playing the role of a home seeker to observe business practices of housing providers. After accepting and performing an assignment,  SCFH Testers then complete a report chronicling their interactions with those housing providers.

Fair Housing Testers must be 18 years or older.  No prior experience is required; SCFH provides training necessary to become a successful Fair Housing Tester. Testers must be authorized to work in the United States.

As a Fair Housing Tester with SCFH, you are an integral part of combating housing discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for housing in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

In addition, you will be compensated for your work as a Fair Housing Tester.

SCFH seeks persons who demonstrate a willingness to learn, exceptional listening and observation skills, and a commitment to completing investigative assignments. SCFH Testers must be responsive, well-organized and able to maintain accurate records with precision and attention to detail in a timely fashion.  Testers must also have a commitment to civil rights.

At SCFH, Fair Housing Testers work remotely from home or on the site of the housing property, depending on the test assignment, tester availability, and SCFH’s testing needs. SCFH offers opportunities for on-site testing work in Rhode Island as well as eastern MA including Bristol and Plymouth counties, CapeCod and the islands.

This is not a full-time or regular part-time employment.  Testers are called to work periodically on an as-needed basis.

To find out more about SCFH testing work, tester applicant eligibility, or to apply to become a tester, you can fill out this form (click here)