📌 Key Takeaway: A complete tenant screening includes five key pieces: credit report, criminal history, eviction records, income verification, and employment confirmation — a score alone isn't enough.

What a Complete Screening Should Include

  • Credit report — financial reliability and existing debt burden.
  • Criminal history — subject to fair housing law limits on how this can be used in decisions.
  • Eviction records — a direct reflection of rental history and a strong predictor of future behavior.
  • Income verification — confirms the applicant can actually afford the rent as claimed.
  • Employment verification — confirms current employment status matches what's stated on the application.

TransUnion SmartMove: A Landlord Standard

As a product from a major credit bureau, SmartMove provides detailed credit, criminal, and eviction reports directly to the property owner — a trusted, FCRA-compliant option starting around $25 for basic tenant checks.

The Applicant Experience Matters Too

Prospective tenants often apply to multiple properties, paying a separate $50+ fee at each one — this friction can deter strong applicants before they even reach your door. A smoother, more respectful screening process gives you a genuine competitive edge in attracting quality tenants.

Consistency Protects You Legally

Applying the exact same screening criteria to every applicant — not adjusting standards case by case — is one of the most important practices for staying compliant with fair housing law and avoiding discrimination claims. Document your standard criteria in writing and apply them uniformly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge the applicant for the screening cost?

Yes, in most states landlords can charge an application fee ($25-$75) that covers screening cost — legal in most jurisdictions, though some states cap the maximum amount, so check your specific local regulations.

Are there limits on how I can use criminal history in a rental decision?

Yes — fair housing law limits blanket criminal history exclusions, generally requiring an individualized assessment rather than an automatic denial for any criminal record. Consult specific local and federal fair housing guidance before setting a screening policy.