A landlord asks prospective tenants to fill out rental applications, which typically require the following information:
• Full name, social security number, date of birth and current address
• Addresses for the past ten years (names of landlords if rented during this time)
• Current employment and current salary
• Previous employment for a minimum of three years
• Highest level of education
• Credit references and a question regarding bankruptcy
• Questions regarding misdemeanor or felony record for applicant
• Names of all co-renters and occupants
• For co-renters who are not family members, a separate application should be completed by each person.
• Personal references, including addresses and telephone numbers
• Name of a relative not living with applicant, including relationship, address and telephone number
• Driver’s license number and state of issue (also make a copy of license)
• List of vehicles and license plate numbers
The signed application should include a “Release of Information Statement,” which enables the landlord to then check the person’s background to determine if they have been truthful in answering all questions. If a decision is made to deny rental, the application along with information learned through the screening must be provided to the applicant.