Tenant Screening Best Practices for Landlords

Own property in Chicago? You've probably experienced the challenge of finding the perfect tenant. That's where our top-notch tenant screening services come in. At 33 Realty, we understand the importance of finding reliable tenants, so we offer comprehensive, time-saving screenings and accurate reports all to make sure you get the peace of mind you deserve. With our thorough background checks and screenings that are offered exclusively through our comprehensive property management and leasing services, we can help you find tenants who not only pay on time but also contribute to a steady revenue stream. Let us take the stress out of finding the best tenants for your property with our trusted tenant screening process.

Understanding Tenant Screening in Chicago

Tenant screening is a crucial step in the rental process, ensuring that you select reliable tenants who will respect your property and meet their financial obligations. In Chicago, tenant screening must comply with specific laws and regulations, such as the Just Housing Ordinance (JHO), which impacts how landlords can consider criminal backgrounds.

Tenant Screening Laws in Chicago

• Just Housing Ordinance (JHO): Landlords must assess the qualifications of prospective tenants before looking at their criminal background. Criminal history cannot be factored in until the landlord provides a provisional "OK" to the application.

• Federal Fair Housing Laws: Landlords must follow laws that protect tenants from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, disability, sex, and familial status.

• Application Fees: Illinois does not limit the amount applicants pay to apply for a lease, and fees do not need to be refundable if a tenant is not selected.  

33 Realty's Tenant Screening Process

At 33 Realty, we have a refined process to ensure you find the most suitable tenants for your property. Our comprehensive tenant screening includes:

Credit Check

We evaluate an applicant's credit history to assess their financial responsibility and ensure they have a track record of paying bills on time.

Employment Verification

We verify the applicant's employment status and income to ensure they can afford the rent.

Debt-to-Income Ratios

By examining the applicant's debt-to-income ratio, we can determine if they have sufficient income to cover their rent and other expenses.

Eviction History Check

We check for any history of evictions, which can indicate potential future issues with rent payments or property care.

Criminal History Check

We conduct criminal background checks in compliance with the JHO, ensuring a fair and thorough review process.

Best Practices for Tenant Screening

Implementing best practices for tenant screening is essential for landlords who want to ensure they select the most reliable and suitable tenants for their properties. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of future problems and maintain a stable rental income. Here are some key practices to consider. ‍

• Set Minimum Requirements
  Establish reasonable criteria for applicants, such as minimum income levels, credit scores, and rental history. This helps streamline the screening process and ensures consistency.

• Request a Rental Application
  A comprehensive rental application should include personal information, employment details, rental history, and references. This provides a solid foundation for evaluating prospective tenants.

• Conduct Interviews
  Meeting potential tenants in person or via video call allows you to verify information and get a sense of their reliability and suitability for your property.

• Follow Fair Housing Laws
  Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal fair housing laws to avoid discrimination and ensure all applicants are treated fairly.

• Use Reliable Screening Services
  Partner with reputable tenant screening services like those offered by 33 Realty to access accurate and comprehensive reports.

Partner with 33 Realty for Tenant Screening

Effective tenant screening is vital for maintaining a successful rental property. At 33 Realty, our screening process, offered exclusively through our comprehensive property management and leasing services, ensures you find reliable tenants, reduce the risk of evictions, and maintain the value of your investment. With our easy online process and accurate reports, you can save time and enjoy peace of mind.  

Contact us today to learn more about how our tenant screening services can benefit your property.