Criminal background checks are common for new hires and sometimes even online dating profiles. However, one of the most popular reasons for background checks is a new tenancy.
A tenant criminal background check can help Punta Gorda, Florida landlords find quality tenants. With the information found in this check, you can keep your property safe and secure.
Stay compliant by following these steps:
Take Legal Precautions
Landlords in Florida cannot run a tenant criminal background check without consent from the tenant.
To avoid confusion, include a section in the rental application about conducting this check. Ask for the applicant's signature as a form of consent.
If you prefer, you can create a separate form for tenants to sign. Adding it to the rental application just streamlines the process.
In the section asking for consent, get the applicant's name and social security number. You'll need these details for tenant screening.
Find a Screening Service
If you hire a property management company, you likely won't have to seek out an approved background check service. They will have connections that they already trust.
If you must choose a screening service yourself, there are some things you should know. Only look for screening companies that have approval from the Federal Trade Commission. You can find this information on the FTC website.
Compare the options you find to ensure they have the services you require. Not all background check services will provide you with the information you seek.
Pay the Fee
Each background check you run can cost anywhere from $20 to $50. You can pay this fee yourself or collect funds from the applicant.
Many property owners choose to charge an application fee to cover the cost of tenant screening. Make sure that the applicant knows this is a non-refundable fee. This is also a great way to see which applicants are serious.
Florida has no legal limit on how much you can charge for this fee, but it's a good idea to be reasonable. A fee too high will deter people from applying.
Create Your Criteria
The best landlord advice is to create your criteria for accepting an applicant ahead of time. Decide what to do with the information in the background check and stick to that plan with every applicant.
Being a fair landlord involves holding everyone to the same standards. There are tenant rights laws in place to protect them from discrimination. Hold yourself accountable to the law to avoid a discrimination lawsuit.
The Fair Housing Act prevents landlords from being able to conduct background checks because of someone's race or gender. If you decide to run a background check for one person, do it for everyone.
Conduct a Tenant Criminal Background Check Within the Law
Conducting a tenant criminal background check within the law can keep landlords in Punta Gorda, Florida out of trouble.
PMI Heartland Realty offers a comprehensive screening process that includes a complete background and credit check. We understand the importance of filling a vacancy with the right tenant fast.
Our licensed and highly educated professionals can help with various aspects of property management. With years of local experience, we are ready to take on your needs. Contact us today to get started.
