How to Obtain Credit Reports of Tenants
A landlord cannot pull a credit report on an existing tenant. As a rental agent you need a valid business reason to pull a credit report, and if the person is already a tenant then there isn't a valid business reason. However you can screen potential renters before they become tenants. This way you will know how reliable your new tenants will be. However, according to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you must get a tenant's written permission before you can run a credit report on anyone.
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Instructions
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Ask for a potential renter to complete an application and ask for information like name, social security, previous landlord, employment status and the names of former landlords. Include a permissions clause on the application stating that the tenant is allowing you to run his credit report. Any potential tenant must sign this application authorizing you to run his credit history.
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Charge an application fee that will cover your cost of running a credit check with any of the credit bureaus.
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Contact a tenant's employer to find out if the employer information is correct. Contact former landlords to verify the applicant's rental payment history.
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Contract an agency that can run your credit checks. Visit websites like Tenant verification Service, Mr Landlord or E-Renter (See Resources) to view different verification services. Some agencies charge per report while others require a membership. If you have several rentals you may consider purchasing a membership.
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Wait for the credit report to be sent to your email. Verify credit history and any evictions. Wait 15 to 30 days to receive the credit report if you chose to receive it by mail.
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