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Tenant screening services
in Chicago,IL
If you own property in Chicago, you know that not every applicant will be an ideal fit for your building. An essential part of finding the right tenant is tenant screening. At 33 Realty, we offer thorough tenant screening services that can give you peace of mind through background checks and screenings to ensure timely payments and a consistent revenue stream. See how our tenant screening company can help!
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Tenant Screening Chicago Laws
In April 2019, the Cook County Board of Commissioners passed the Just Housing Ordinance (JHO) which requires that all Cook County landlords assess the qualifications of the prospective tenant before looking at their criminal background. This means that criminal history cannot be factored in until the landlord provides a provisional "OK" to the prospective tenant's application.
According to the JHO, landlords are unable to deny housing based on sealed records, expunged records, juvenile records, criminal convictions, or arrests that come up in a tenant background check. If a criminal background check comes back with a criminal conviction, the landlord needs to disclose their source of information to the potential tenant so they have an opportunity to dispute it.
According to the JHO, landlords are unable to deny housing based on sealed records, expunged records, juvenile records, criminal convictions, or arrests that come up in a tenant background check. If a criminal background check comes back with a criminal conviction, the landlord needs to disclose their source of information to the potential tenant so they have an opportunity to dispute it.
Beyond criminal background checks, most tenant screening solutions also revolve around an income insights report and credit check. According to federal law, all three major credit bureaus require that the landlord undergo an on-site inspection by a third party before they're able to receive the full credit report of the applicant.
There are other rules that rental property owners must keep in mind in the city of Chicago:
There are other rules that rental property owners must keep in mind in the city of Chicago:
- Illinois doesn't put a limit on how much applicants pay to apply for the lease;
- Chicago follows state laws and doesn't have a minimum or maximum dollar amount for application fees;
- Application fees don't need to be refundable;
- When screening tenants and the potential tenant isn't a good fit, the application fee doesn't need to be refunded.
Our Residential Tenant Screening Process
Our team follows a thorough and refined process to vet every applicant for your building. Keep in mind that Cook County has passed the Just Housing Amendment to the Human Rights Ordinance, requiring landlords to conduct both pre-qualification and criminal screening. At 33 Realty, here’s our process:
Credit check
We start by running a credit check to see the financial history of the applicant. If there are any red flags during this step, we will let you know.
Employment verification
Next, we will work to verify employment to ensure the applicant will be able to comfortably pay rent in a timely manner each month. This includes collecting recent paystubs.
Debt-to-income ratios
Does the applicant have any debt that they’re still paying off? We also look at debt-to-income ratios to get additional information on the financial history of the applicant to give you more information about how to move forward.
Eviction history check
In the unfortunate scenario that the applicant has been evicted from a previous property, our team will be able to identify this information and pass it onto you.
Criminal history check
Finally, we conclude with a criminal history check that helps determine if the applicant will determine a safety threat to the neighborhood or other people in the building.
Why our clients think that we OFFER THE best tenant screening services in Chicago
Accurate and
Authentic Reports
Authentic Reports
We supply complete and accurate credit, criminal, eviction, and financial reports to provide comprehensive reports of prospective tenants.
Easy Online
Process
Process
Landlords can screen applicants at their convenience on their computers, phones, or tablets.
Save Time
We provide the most promising candidates, so no time is squandered on unnecessary paperwork or reviewing unsuitable applicants.
Avoid Future
Evictions
Evictions
Our thorough tenant screening services pairs landlords with renters who have a credible track record of paying on time and keeping properties in good shape.
Maintain
Investments
Investments
We offer the best tenant screening services in Chicago by finding suitable tenants who appreciate property value.
Greater
Convenience
Convenience
Our online portal delivers fast results, simplifying the application and review processes for everyone involved.
testimonials
Tenant screening in Chicago is easy with 33 Realty. They find the best candidates and do a great job at managing our rental properties. They offer great service, clear communication, and smart investment advice.
33 Realty verified our tenants in no time. With their help, we don’t have to stress about finding trustworthy renters. Their tenant screening report and professional service are truly excellent!
Definitely the best tenant screening services in Chicago. Year after year, 33 Realty helps us find the best tenants for our residential block. Always professional and hassle-free. We recommend them to anyone needing tenant assistance.
FAQs About Tenant Screening Services
Is a tenant screening service the same as a tenant background check?
A tenant background check focuses on an overview of the tenant's rental history regarding previous rentals. If a renter is serious about moving forward with a lease, the landlord should also look into checking their references and speak with at least two landlords directly.
What is a good business credit score for a commercial lease?
Commercial tenant screening reports are helpful for landlords, and they should look for a commercial credit score of 80 or higher. Business credit scores are known as PAYDEX scores and they range from 0-100 with those in the 0-49 range having a high risk of late payment, 50-79 as a medium risk of late payment, and 80-100 as a low risk of late payment.
Is a commercial rental application legally binding?
It's important to note that commercial rental applications are not legally binding documents. Landlords should not look at the rental application as a contract — it is more of an investigative tool that landlords use to find out more information about prospective tenants that are interested in securing a lease. It is not until both parties sign the official rental agreement that it becomes a legally binding contract.
What should I look for in a tenant screening?
A tenant screening checklist should include credit score, background and eviction checks, employment history, current income, landlord references, reasons for leaving previous residencies, and a clear idea of lifestyle choices and general demeanor. A credible track record and solid character references are indications of a reliable tenant.
Can you be evicted in Illinois right now?
Yes, but landlords cannot evict a tenant or force them to vacate the property without probable cause. As long as a tenant does not violate any rules, it is within their right to stay until their rental period legally ends.
How much is tenant screening in Chicago?
Average tenant screening services vary in price depending on the range of information required and the number of tenants screened. If you let us know your requirements, we can happily provide you with a quote.
get in touch
If you're in need of a professional tenant background check, our team at 33 Realty is happy to assist you! In addition to offering quality real estate agents, we are happy to help with tenant screening reports as well.
357 W CHICAGO AVENUE
CHICAGO, IL 60654
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