It's once again a landlord's market in Chevy Chase. Demand for quality rentals has surged across all of DC's hottest suburbs, meaning higher competition and higher yields for many landlords.
However, high demand does not mean you should be lax when it comes to screening. Implementing a thorough and legally compliant tenant criminal background check for each and every tenant is essential if you want to keep your neighbors happy, reduce the chance of costly legal disputes, and maintain value across your portfolio.
If you're not familiar with the ins and outs of the process, here's what you need to know to get your tenant screening process right every time.
Compliance Is Your First Priority
The tenant screening process is your first line of defense for rental property security. Always run criminal background checks as part of your tenant screening to ensure you make informed decisions.
This involves gathering essential personal information like full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. In Maryland, landlords must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state laws that regulate the use of background check information, so always keep compliance in mind.
Use a Trustworthy Local Screening Partner
Selecting the right service can make or break your screening efforts. Make sure the background check services you use are comprehensive and up-to-date to cover all relevant criminal records.
Look for services that offer nationwide coverage and regularly updated information, ensuring no important detail is missed. Review reports carefully for any discrepancies and verify the accuracy of the findings.
Remember, Maryland law requires you to provide tenants with a copy of their report if any adverse action, like denial, is based on the findings.
Maintain Consistent Criteria for Your Tenant Criminal Background Check
Before screening, establish clear and fair tenant eligibility criteria. This keeps you consistent and helps avoid discrimination claims. Here's a quick list to consider:
- No violent offenses
- No recent felony convictions
- Good rental history
- Verified employment
These criteria should align with both federal and Maryland state regulations to ensure you're not violating tenant rights. Keep records of all eligibility standards you set and apply them equally to every applicant.
Safety and Transparency Are Key
Safe renting practices extend beyond just checking for criminal backgrounds. Create an environment of transparency by explaining your screening process to potential tenants upfront.
This not only reassures responsible tenants but also helps you avoid legal trouble. Always maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
Additionally, consider checking local registries for sex offenders and stay informed about changing Maryland tenant laws that may impact your screening methods.
Your Screening Compliance Partner in Chevy Chase, MD
When it comes to screening, landlords all too-often focus solely on credit scores and paystubs. However, implementing a robust, transparent, consistent, and compliant tenant criminal background check is much more important.
This is how you keep tenants safe. It's how you reduce risk in your portfolio. Most importantly, it's how you give yourself, your tenants, and your community peace of mind. For this, we are here to help.
At PMI Chevy Chase, we offer comprehensive screening and full-service tenant placement. Our local team is on the ground to take care of this for you, so reach out today to get started.
