Renting an Apartment? Beware of Your Criminal Record
Posted on Jul 17, 2018 11:25am PDT
You’ve probably heard that once you’re convicted of a crime,
it can be very difficult to find a good job. But, did you know that a
criminal record can affect housing as well? That’s right, a lot
of landlords will not rent to people with criminal records and this has
made it a challenge for offenders to re-enter society and become productive citizens.
Let’s say you have a record. Now, you want to find a new apartment
or house to rent. You have your deposit ready. Your things are packed.
You even have a moving truck lined up. You’re prepared to prove
your income and have your credit checked, but are you prepared for the
background check?
It is common for landlords and property managers to run background checks
on applicants, especially when they’re renting out apartments. “But
is it legal for landlords to run background checks?” Yes, it is
legal; however, if a landlord tells you not to apply if you have a criminal
record, that can be
discrimination.
When Can Landlords Check My Record?
Generally, it’s perfectly legal for landlords to run a background
check on an applicant
after they submitted a formal application for the apartment or house. If a landlord
takes your application, runs a background check on you, discovers you
have a record, and then turns you down, he or she must:
- Give you notice of their adverse action orally, electronically, or in writing.
- The notice must provide the contact information for the company that ran
your background check.
- The notice must explain your right to fix any inaccurate information, and
to obtain a free copy of the report within 60 days of the landlord turning you down.
Do you feel that the landlord or property manager somehow violated your
rights when they used your background check? If so, you’re encouraged
to report it to the
Federal Trade Commission. On the other hand, if you’re facing criminal charges and want to
avoid a conviction leading to housing difficulties,
contact our firm to meet with a Denton County
criminal defense lawyer for free.