General Tenant Screening FAQs
Tenant screening is the process of evaluating rental applicants through credit checks, background reports, rental history, and income verification. It helps landlords and property managers choose reliable tenants who are more likely to pay rent on time, follow lease terms, and care for the property.
You’ll typically need a completed rental application, signed consent for credit and background checks, a Social Security number (or ITIN), and proof of income. Some landlords may also request employment references or prior landlord contact information.
Basic reports, such as credit checks, can be returned within minutes. More comprehensive screenings that include income or rental history verification may take 24 to 72 hours, depending on the information required.
Legal & Compliance FAQs
Yes. Tenant screening is permitted under federal law, but landlords must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), Fair Housing laws, and any state or local tenant protection regulations.
Yes. If a landlord’s criteria or practices appear discriminatory toward protected classes (race, religion, gender, family status, disability, etc.), they may face legal consequences. Consistent, documented standards help reduce this risk.
Yes. Federal law requires landlords to obtain signed consent before requesting a credit report or background check. This consent is usually included in the rental application form.
Credit & Financial FAQs
There is no universal minimum. Many landlords use a benchmark of 600–650, but payment history, debt levels, and recent credit activity are often just as important as the score itself.
Yes, but with caution. Landlords may evaluate alternative factors such as proof of income, co-signers, or strong rental references to determine if the applicant is a good fit.
Common methods include reviewing pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns. Some landlords also use third-party income verification services for added accuracy.
Background & Criminal Check FAQs
Most tenant screening services search county, state, and federal criminal databases. Landlords must follow “ban the box” and fair-chance housing laws, which may restrict how criminal history can be considered in housing decisions.
It depends on the circumstances. Denials must be based on relevant convictions that pose a safety or property risk, not on arrests. Decisions must be applied consistently across all applicants to remain compliant with fair housing guidelines.
Eviction & Rental History FAQs
Comprehensive screening reports often include eviction filings, judgments, and rental-related court actions. Reviewing this information can help identify patterns of nonpayment or lease violations.
Rental history is highly valuable, but landlords should verify references by contacting past landlords directly. Confirming details such as rent paid, lease term, and condition of the unit adds credibility.
Cost & Service FAQs
It varies by market. In many areas, applicants pay the screening fee during the application process. Some states regulate or cap these fees, so always check local laws.
Pricing depends on the package selected. See our current tenant screening pricing here.
Most packages include a credit report, criminal background check, eviction history, and identity verification. Some also include employment and rental history verification for more comprehensive insights.