Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) Practice Exam - Module 1

What is the "80% rule" in senior housing?

1. That 80% of tenants must be under a certain age

2. That 80% of units must be affordable

3. That 80% of residents must be over 55 years old

4. That 80% of properties must meet energy standards

The correct answer is: That 80% of residents must be over 55 years old

The "80% rule" in senior housing refers to the guideline that at least 80% of the residents must be aged 55 or older. This rule is significant because it helps to establish age-restricted communities that provide housing specifically designed for seniors. By ensuring that a substantial majority of residents are within this age group, these communities can create an environment conducive to the lifestyles, needs, and preferences of older adults. This rule not only promotes a sense of community among residents who may share similar life experiences and needs but also helps provide certain legal protections under the Fair Housing Act, which allows for age discrimination in housing. Such provisions are essential for attracting and catering to a demographic seeking peers in their living environment. Other options presented do not align with recognized practices in senior housing. For instance, the notion that a specific age or affordability pertains to a percentage of units or properties falls outside the conventional definitions related to senior living regulations and standards. The focus on age, rather than economic or efficiency metrics, is what makes the "80% rule" distinctive and applicable in this context.