Why Do Landlords Want to Check My Criminal Background?

Why Do Landlords Want to Check My Criminal Background?

A clean background is a generally a good sign that an applicant can be trusted with the home and the neighborhood.

It is important to note that landlords may be liable if they skip a background check and something goes wrong.

According to NOLO.com, landlords can incur stiff fines, criminal penalties, and lawsuits for allowing illegal activity in their rental property.  In extreme cases, the presence of drug dealers may result in government confiscation of the rental property.

Screening out violent or dangerous criminals is just one step to limit liability and risk for the homeowner.

As a safety precaution, it is important to screen everyone that will be living in the home, not just the primary applicant.