As a property owner, you want good tenant application screening to find trustworthy tenants who pay their rent on time and take care of your property. Tenant application screens are a vital part of the search for the right tenant. Before you hang the “For Rent” sign, have your application process ready when you follow these steps.
- Create an application
- Conduct proper screening
- Be prepared for adverse action
Step One: Provide a Thorough Rental Application
The first task to obtain information from potential tenants is to create a comprehensive application. Sample applications are easy enough to find online. Ensure your application includes any information specific to your situation. Some standard questions might include personal identification, financial, and employment information.
It is also imperative you obtain your applicant’s permission to conduct your desired tenant application screening. This needs to be plainly stated in your application and require the signature of your applicant.
Step Two: Perform Legal Background Screening
The screening process often varies to suit the needs of your property. Consider these processes:
- Run a credit check
- Run a background check (including criminal history, public records, and evictions)
- Contact previous landlords
- Contact employers
- Contact other references
Remember the applicant must approve, in writing, any screening. Use this tenant application screening to determine whether the individual(s) is/are qualified to be a suitable tenant on your property. If the tenant application screening process seems daunting, consider hiring a professional organization to take care of this step!
Step Three: Plan for Adverse Action – Don’t Wing It
After you review the results of a thorough tenant application screening, you decide on the best tenant for your property. If you take adverse action against an application based on the findings of the tenant application screen, you must provide that applicant some information.
An adverse action might include application denial, larger deposit requirements, or the need for a co-signer on the rental agreement. It’s crucial to perform this correctly, to protect your property from litigation.
When an adverse action is taken, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) indicates applicants have certain rights. You are required to provide the applicant with:
- The reason for this adverse action
- A copy of the report used in making your decision
- The contact information for the background screening company used (if there was one)
Hire out the Rental Application Process
If the tenant application screening sounds like a tedious process – it is! Give yourself a break and work with a respected background screening company to complete the checks for you.
Know there is a team of experts working on your behalf to legally obtain accurate information in a timely manner. Then, should an adverse action dispute be filed, you have a partner to help you every step of the way.
Delegate Screening Tenant Applications to Barada Associates
Barada Associates has been in the business of background screening for 40 years! Our experience paired with our expertise means you are assured the best for your application screening needs.
We have the skills to conduct thorough screenings and advise you every step of the way. When you come to Barada Associates, you hire a partner in the process of tenant application screening! Do not waste any more time conducting tedious or questionable background checks, put Barada Associates to work for you!