🔍 Criminal Record Check: How It Really Works
As a landlord, you want peace of mind — and safety for your property and your community.That’s where the criminal record check comes in. But how does it actually work? Here’s a simple, professional breakdown: 1. Consent First
You’ll always need the tenant’s written permission before running any background check — including criminal history.
2. National & Local Database Scan
Screening services (like LeaseRunner) search both state and federal databases for records tied to your applicant’s identity. 3. ⚖️ Types of Offenses Reviewed. This may include:
Felony convictions
Misdemeanors
Sex offender registry status
Pending charges (if permitted by law)
Context Matters
4. Not all offenses are dealbreakers. Consider:
How long ago the incident occurred
Relevance to rental behavior (e.g., property damage, violence)
Evidence of rehabilitation
5. Fair Housing Reminder
You can’t reject someone just for having a record.
HUD guidelines require case-by-case evaluation — with fairness and consistency.