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Tenant Screening Authorization

Tenant screening authorization: the consent form for tenant background and credit checks. Preview free, plans from $2.99/month.

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Create a tenant screening authorization form that records an applicant's consent to background and credit checks. The template includes disclosure and consent language; check your screening company's requirements too.

FCRA Compliance Requirements

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires specific elements in screening authorizations:

  • Clear Disclosure: Inform applicant that a consumer report may be obtained
  • Written Consent: Obtain applicant's written authorization
  • Standalone Document: Authorization should be separate or clearly distinguished
  • Adverse Action Notice: If denying based on report, provide required notices

What Can Be Checked

Credit History

  • Credit score
  • Payment history
  • Outstanding debts
  • Bankruptcies

Background Check

  • Criminal records
  • Sex offender registry
  • Eviction history
  • Identity verification

Using the Authorization

After obtaining signed authorization:

  1. Submit to your tenant screening service with the authorization
  2. Retain the original signed document for at least 2 years
  3. If denying based on report findings, provide:
    • Pre-adverse action notice with copy of report
    • Summary of FCRA rights
    • Opportunity to dispute inaccurate information
    • Final adverse action notice if decision stands

Related Screening Documents

Complete your tenant screening process with this additional form:

Frequently asked questions

  • A tenant screening authorization is a legal document where a rental applicant gives written consent for a landlord to run credit checks, background checks, and verify references. It is required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) before obtaining consumer reports.

  • Yes, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires written authorization before obtaining a consumer report (credit check or background check) on any applicant. The authorization must be clear and conspicuous, separate from other application documents.

  • A standard tenant screening typically includes: credit report and score, criminal background check (national and state), eviction history, employment verification, rental history verification, and identity verification. The specific checks depend on the screening service used.

  • Most screening authorizations are valid for a single use or for 30-90 days from the signature date. If you need to rescreen an applicant after this period, you should obtain a new authorization. Check your local laws for specific requirements.

  • A tenant can refuse to sign, but landlords can then decline to process the application. Signing the authorization is typically a requirement to be considered for tenancy. However, landlords must handle any provided information in compliance with privacy laws.

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