Applicant screening is a process that is legal, simple and fair. Landlords must thoroughly screen each applicant, using the same process for all prospective residents. Never discriminate based on someone's race, gender, creed, disability, nationality, marital status, familial status, source of income, or sexual preference.
A minimum applicant screening should include:
- Valid photo ID/Resident Alien Visa
- Social Security number
- Credit check
- Previous landlords contacted (Consider looking them up in the phone book and checking addresses with the County Assessor's Office.)
- Verification of income sources
Be certain to obtain the above information for all persons who may potentially reside at your property.
Additional Tips
- Establish "rejection criteria" in writing and be prepared to apply it equally to all applicants.
- Make certain that all applications are completed on site or in your presence—it is much more difficult for criminals to make up a story and falsify information.
- Charge a reasonable fee to cover the costs associated with conducting a background check.
- Consult your attorney regarding all policies/procedures.
Criminal History Checks
Obtain a signed release form from all adults. You must have the full name of each applicant, with the correct spelling of first, middle and last name along with the accurate date of birth to obtain accurate information. Be prepared to check all cities, counties and states where the applicant has lived.
Remember, rejections for criminal behavior should be based on convictions, not just police contacts.
Visit the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension website or the Minnesota Courts website's "Self Help Desk" for more information.
Professional Screening Resources
A reputable list from the Minnesota Multi Housing Association (MHA).
- Apartment Services Plus, Inc. (ASP)
952-925-9592 - First Advantage SafeRent
708-710-1428 - MultiHousing Credit Control (MCC)
952-941-0552 ext. 640 - Rental Research Services, Inc.
952-935-5700 - RentGrow
262-677-1107 - RHR Information Services, Inc.
952-259-3022 - Screening Reports, Inc.
763-416-1334 - Trak-1 Technology
612-965-9535 - Twin City Tenant Check, Inc.
651-224-3002
Using a professional screening company helps protect you:
- You may simply state that "based on the information from your screening report, the application does not meet posted screening criteria."
- You can refer the applicant back to the screening company if he/she feels there is an error. Inform the applicant that he/she is free to re-apply if the error can be corrected.
For Additional Information
Contact Police Services Liaison Anne Marie Buck at 952-548-6407.