According to a report by the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, there were 164 eviction orders in San Mateo between April and June 2024. Dealing with evictions, from legal proceedings to tenant removal, causes a landlord operational stress. Evicted tenants may also leave behind a trail of damages.
Tenant criminal background checks can save you from costly evictions. It helps you screen out tenants with a history of vandalism and violent behavior. This safeguards your property and reduces the risks of legal evictions.
But this will only happen if the background checks are done correctly.
Want to learn how to conduct tenant criminal history checks in San Mateo, CA? Follow our comprehensive guide for more information.
Obtain Consent for Secure Rental Practices
Obtaining written consent from a prospective tenant at the start of the process is a legal requirement. Failing to do so can result in legal penalties and fines. Asking for consent also deters individuals with a concerning history from progressing with the tenant screening process.
Some of the best practices for obtaining consent include:
- Using a clear and concise form outlining the information to be accessed
- Requesting the applicant to sign and date the document
- Having a clause that complies with local and federal laws
Gather Necessary Information
Collecting complete and accurate tenant information reduces the risks of errors and disputes. The details also help in carrying out a full tenant background screening. Some of the information to gather about the tenants includes:
- Full name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Current and Previous address
- Driver's license or Government ID
Choose a Reliable Tenant Screening Service
Working with a reputable screening company saves you time and ensures a consistent, unbiased approach. Such companies also have access to an extensive database essential for an accurate criminal history check.
However, for the best results, choose a company known for providing accurate and reliable checks. You can determine the company's reputation by reading reviews. Also, ensure that the company complies with local and federal regulations such as the Fair Housing Act and Credit Reporting Act.
Conduct the Background Check
Once you have obtained consent and the required information, proceed to conduct a background check through your chosen service. The service will scan the database for criminal history, including:
- Arrest records
- Felony and misdemeanor records
- Sex offender registry
After getting the background check results, review them thoroughly. Keep in mind that some offenses should not lead to disqualification. Therefore, pay attention to the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the offense, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Learn How to Do a Tenant Criminal Background Check in San Mateo, CA Today
A comprehensive tenant criminal background check screens out tenants with a history of vandalism. This safeguards your property and prevents compliance issues.
Are you looking for a reliable tenant for criminal background check services? At Five Star Management, we've got you covered. Our team of experts has in-depth experience in property management and real estate investment to conduct thorough tenant background screening.
Contact us today for fast and reliable screening services.
