Landlord Question and Answer Forum

Is there standard language that is available when declining a client based on results of credit or criminal reports?

Honesty is usually the best, however if you do want to keep it open and be safe of any potential discrimination simply saying that you are declining and have chosen someone that has better fit your requirements or is more financially suitable.

Posted by Derrick D, PA on Sunday, October 25, 2015

If you denied them due to their credit score, the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires sending the applicant an "adverse action notice" advising them that they have been denied rental in part due to information obtained from their credit report. An adverse action notice must include the following information: 1. The name, address, and telephone number of the credit reporting agency that supplied the credit report. 2. A statement that the credit reporting agency that supplied the report did not influence the landlord's decision to reject the application. 3. Advise the rejected applicant of his/her right to dispute the correctness or completeness of the information from the credit reporting agency and the applicant's right to obtain a free copy of their credit report from the agency within 60 days, if requested. I hope you find this information helpful!

Posted by Dana H, CA on Friday, November 13, 2015