Landlords typically check for evictions through credit reports and tenant screening services. In addition, public records such as court records and eviction databases may also be used to verify an applicant’s rental history.
They may also use tenant screening services that gather additional information on an applicant’s rental history, including any prior evictions.
By conducting thorough tenant screenings and verifying rental history, landlords can better protect their property and make informed decisions when selecting tenants.
Understanding Eviction Reports
Evictions are one of the critical factors considered by landlords and property managers while screening potential tenants.
This is because a history of eviction indicates a high risk of non-payment of rent or property damage. Hence, a landlord needs to understand what eviction reports entail.
- An eviction report provides a comprehensive overview of an applicant’s eviction history, including judgments, liens, and bankruptcies.
- It gives crucial information for landlords by highlighting whether the applicant was evicted in the past or if they have any court orders ruling against them.
Sources Of Eviction Reports
While conducting a tenant screening process, eviction reports are typically obtained from the following sources:
- County courts: Since evictions are a legal process, they are recorded in court documents, including case numbers and dates.
- Credit bureaus: These agencies collect data from various sources and summarize it in the form of a credit report that includes eviction information.
- Tenant screening companies: These companies offer background screening services for landlords and property managers.
Detailed Explanation Of How Eviction Reports Are Compiled
An eviction report is compiled using the following process:
- A person’s name and social security number are matched against the databases to determine if they have previous eviction history.
- The information obtained is cross-checked with the county courthouses or other sources that provide legal records.
- The report is created by compiling all the information found, including the date of the eviction, the reason for eviction, and the resolution of the case.
Understanding eviction reports, their sources, and how they are compiled are crucial for every landlord.
By considering this information, landlords can make informed decisions in their tenant screening process, ultimately ensuring a successful long-term rental relationship.
Where Do Landlords Check For Evictions?
When landlords screen potential tenants, one critical aspect they review is the tenant’s eviction history.
This information provides landlords with an idea of whether or not the tenant is reliable, responsible, and trustworthy. As a tenant, it is crucial to be aware of your eviction history.
Here are some potential sources landlords use to search for eviction histories:
- Court records.
- The national eviction database.
- Third-party screening companies that offer eviction reports.
Court Records As A Primary Source For Eviction Information
Court records are one of the most reliable sources a landlord can use to check a tenant’s eviction history.
This primary source provides detailed information about the eviction process, including the reason for the eviction, the date it occurred, and the outcome.
Court records not only show evictions but also judgments for unpaid rent. It is essential for tenants to keep track of their eviction history and pay any outstanding rent owed.
Here are some steps to access court records:
- Go online to the county courthouse website where the tenant resides or last lived.
- Search for the public records section of the website.
- Enter the name of the tenant.
- Look for any eviction or court cases involving the tenant.
The National Eviction Database: What It Is And How It Works
The national eviction database is a cloud-based platform that compiles eviction records from across the country.
This database makes life easier for landlords because they can search for a tenant’s eviction history without going through individual court records from different states.
The national eviction database also gives landlords information on any civil judgments against a tenant.
However, not all states participate in the national database, so landlords may need to use other sources to verify the tenant’s eviction history.
Third-Party Screening Companies That Offer Eviction Reports
Landlords can also use third-party screening companies that offer eviction reports.
These companies provide a comprehensive report detailing a tenant’s eviction history, including any judgments for unpaid rent.
Landlords can use these reports to get a better idea of the tenant’s background, making an informed decision on whether to rent to the tenant.
However, third-party screening companies come with a cost, and there is a possibility of errors in the report.
As a tenant, it’s crucial to request a copy of the report and ensure that everything reported is accurate.
As a tenant, it’s important to be aware of your eviction history and ensure that you don’t have any past evictions or judgments for unpaid rent.
As for landlords, using these potential sources to screen tenants ensures they make the right decision, protecting their investment and ensuring the success of their rental property.
How Landlords Verify Evictions
Landlords often conduct background checks of their potential tenants to ensure they are renting to trustworthy and reliable individuals.
One significant factor they look at is the eviction history of the tenant. Hence, landlords check for evictions before renting their property.
How Landlords Use Eviction Reports And What They Look For
Landlords typically use background check companies that specialize in tenant screening services to verify the eviction history of their applicants.
These companies collect data from various sources, including public records, court records, and property management companies.
Here are some of the things that a landlord looks for in an eviction report:
- On-time payment history of the previous renter.
- Prior eviction filings and judgments.
- The outcome of the eviction proceedings: Dismissed, settled, or judgment entered in favour of the landlord.
Guidelines And Regulations For Using Eviction Reports
Landlords are required to follow fair housing laws and tenant screening regulations when conducting background checks.
Some states prohibit landlords from using certain types of eviction records or limiting their use of them based on their age or disposition.
Here are a few points they should keep in mind while using eviction reports:
- The landlord must obtain the applicant’s consent in writing to screen their eviction history.
- The eviction report should not be the only criterion in deciding whether to rent to a tenant or not.
- Violating the fair housing act or any other state law during the screening process may result in severe legal consequences.
How Tenants Can Dispute An Eviction Report
If a tenant finds an error in their eviction report, they have the right to dispute it with the screening company and the reporting agency that provided it.
Here are the steps a tenant can take to dispute an eviction report:
- Contact the screening company and request a copy of the report.
- Review the report and identify any errors or inaccuracies.
- Gather and submit evidence supporting your dispute, such as proof of payment or court documents.
- File a consumer dispute with the screening company.
Landlords use eviction reports to ensure they rent to reliable tenants. However, they must follow the guidelines and regulations while conducting a background check.
Similarly, if a tenant disputes the eviction report, they can follow the steps mentioned above to correct any errors.
Frequently Asked Questions Of Where Do Landlords Check For Evictions
Where Can Landlords Check For Evictions?
Landlords can check for evictions by searching court records or hiring a tenant screening service.
How Far Back Can Landlords Check For Evictions?
Landlords can check for evictions as far back as the court records allow, usually up to 7 years.
Can Landlords Reject A Tenant For Past Evictions?
Yes, landlords can reject a tenant for past evictions as they indicate a history of non-payment or violations.
How Can Tenants Dispute A Wrongful Eviction Record?
Tenants can dispute a wrongful eviction record by contacting the court or the landlord to provide proof of their eviction.
Conclusion
Knowing where landlords check for evictions empowers you. They commonly check your rental history through credit reports and eviction databases.
By understanding this process, you can address any potential red flags in advance and increase your chances of securing that perfect home.