Sandy Glover Discussion started by Sandy Glover 10 years ago

In reading various discussion on this site, Linkedin, and other multifamily related groups there seem to be some confusion about renter applicant screening; not is screening should be done, but how.  It is my goal this discussion to clear up some confusion that will make it possible for you to have an effective renter screening program.  Here are some points to consider:

**The company you select should be a consumer reporting agency (CRA) that is Fair Credit     Reporting Act (FCRA) compliant.  The reason, the FCRA was created to improve the quality and accuracy of a background check thus, by law, your report will be more accurate.  In addition your CRA will have the necessary release and other forms needed to comply with the regulations.       

**The agency verify the applicant's name, date of birth, and SSN to eliminate,or greatly reduce the possibility of mistaken identity. Mistaken identity can happen with very common or foreign names, hyphenated names or persons with more than one last name, and women who have been married more then once. 

**The agency conducts a nationwide criminal background check on a FCRA compliant database.  There are only a few such bases, so ask.  Again; to improve accuracy and prevent litigation.

** The agency conducts a FBI and local sexual offender, predator, and pedophile search. 

**  The agency searches civil county court and circuit records in every county the applicant has lived for at least the past 5 years.  This is a real time accurate look at the applicants' ability to pay the rent: has this person been sued for non-payment, been evicted or  foreclosed, has wages garnished, is a "dead beat" parent or spouse, has civil action against him/her such as a restraining, and other crucial information.  

**Has the ability to conduct a Department of Homeland Security ( or other accurate agency) terrorist watch list search.

** Verifies employment and if the applicant has reason to believe he/she will keep the job.

** Contacts previous landlords ( if any),  the current one may be more than happy to make this applicant your problem.

How long should all of this take?  Not more than 24 hours on a week day.  The exception would be over a national holiday or weekend where courts are closed.  

It is important for the multifamily professional to have a open and clearly defined working relationship with their screening company, after all, you are relying in them to provide the information that could save, or cost, you money and a lot of aggravation. 

For more information and our monthly safety tips, log on to http://www.goldshieldli.com.