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Tenant Screening Checklist

Steps to properly vet rental applicants. Reduce evictions and protect your investment.

4 sections · 24 items · Progress saves automatically in your browser

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Application Review

0/7

Complete application received with all fields filledGovernment-issued photo ID verifiedApplication fee collectedIncome verification: pay stubs (last 2-3 months)Income is at least 3x monthly rentEmployment verification: contact employer directlySelf-employed: request tax returns or bank statements

Background Checks

0/6

Credit report pulled (look for 620+ score)Check for eviction history (past 7 years)Criminal background check (follow Fair Housing laws)Check for bankruptciesVerify no outstanding judgmentsSex offender registry check

References

0/5

Contact current landlord — ask about payment historyContact previous landlord — ask why they leftAsk: Would you rent to them again?Ask: Any lease violations or complaints?Personal references (optional — less reliable)

Final Decision

0/6

Apply same criteria to all applicants (Fair Housing)Document reasons for approval or denialSend adverse action notice if denied (legally required)If approved: collect security deposit + first monthSchedule lease signing datePrepare move-in inspection checklist

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