Rental Applications and Tenant Screening

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Screening tenants is the most important aspect of your rental business. Know how to get and evaluate credit and background reports, including criminal histories. Be sure you know the rules prohibiting housing discrimination.

How to Screen Tenants—And Avoid Illegal Discrimination

How to Screen and Select Tenants FAQ
Check tenants' credit and avoid legal trouble over discrimination.
Choosing Tenants: Avoid Fair Housing Complaints and Lawsuits
Anti-discrimination laws limit the tenants you can accept and reject.
When Should a Landlord Hire a Lawyer?
In some situations, property owners can benefit from a lawyer's help. Learn when to consult an attorney.
How Landlords Can Use Megan’s Law to Check State Databases of Sexual Offenders
As a rule, most landlords want to screen out tenants with criminal records, particularly convictions for violent crimes or crimes against children.
California Law on Tenant Application Screening Fees and Credit Reports
California state law limits credit check or application screening fees landlords can charge prospective tenants and specifies what landlords must do when accepting these types of fees.
How Landlords Can Check a Tenant’s Credit Report
Many landlords find it essential to check a prospective tenant’s credit history with at least one credit reporting agency to see how responsible the person is managing money.
Legal Requirements for Handling Tenant Credit Reports: The “Disposal Rule”
Under federal law, landlords must take special care that credit reports are stored in a secure place where only those who “need to know” have access.
How to Handle Tenant Holding Deposits
Should landlords accept these kinds of holding deposits?

Tenant Rights and Housing Discrimination

Useful articles on tenant fair housing rights, including anti-discrimination laws sexual orientation and disability.

Fighting Rental Housing Discrimination FAQ
Learn about illegal housing discrimination, including how to file a complaint.
Tenant Rights Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Know your renter's rights if a landlord won't rent to you because you are gay or lesbian.
Disabled Renters' Housing Rights
If you have a disability, you should understand the laws when you rent a house or apartment.

Advertising Rental Properties

Learn how to set basic rental terms, such as the number of tenants and amount of rent, and the best ways to find tenants who meet your criteria.

Where Landlords Can Advertise Their Rental Property
Use several advertising methods when you list your property for rent.
How Landlords Should Advertise Their Rental Property
Setting out your basic rental terms is your first step to finding great tenants.
Can I show my apartment to new tenants while the current ones are still in there?
What to look out for if you want to advertise your currently-occupied apartment.