Real estate can be a great investment, but it also comes with many challenges.
One of the most important steps is carrying out a tenant criminal background check. Finding quality tenants will make things much easier for you, so this isn't something to neglect. It's worth taking the time to do this right and cover all bases.
Let's take a look at some of the key elements of a tenant criminal background check in Kansas City, MO.
1. Identity Verification
The first part of the tenant verification process is identity verification. You want to make sure the applicant is actually who they say they are. Without this step, the rest of the background check could be compromised.
Government-issued IDs are ideal here. Passports or driver's licenses can help verify the identity of applicants.
2. National Criminal Database Search
Now that you're certain of who the applicant is, you can move on to the national criminal database. This is a broad search that will highlight crimes that an applicant may have committed in the past. It covers different states and territories which is ideal if an applicant isn't from the local area.
Criminal record checks will show anything from minor infractions to major felonies. You can then get a good idea of any interactions an applicant has had with law enforcement in the past and whether there's anything you need to be concerned about.
3. County Criminal Records
While the national criminal database can be helpful, it may not catch everything. As such, if someone isn't on there, it doesn't automatically mean they'll be a good tenant. You can be more thorough by also looking at county records.
These records should cover any incidents that have occurred locally. This could highlight smaller issues that are less likely to appear on the national criminal database.
4. Sex Offender Registry Check
Various tenant screening methods aren't just about finding a suitable tenant for a property but also making sure that the tenant doesn't present a risk to other residents in the area. The sex offender registry can help here. Anyone who shows up on this registry may be a concern and you might want to avoid renting your property to them.
This can also be essential for compliance. There may be local housing laws that restrict housing options for people on the sex offender registry.
5. Terrorism Watch List Screening
This is something that will only be an issue in extreme cases, but it's still vital to check. You must review the FBI's terrorism watch list to make sure an applicant isn't on it. They may appear there if they have connections to any terrorist organizations or activities.
Anyone on this list could pose a potential safety risk to residents in the community. It's important to make sure that this isn't the case.
Getting a Professional Tenant Criminal Background Check
It's important to conduct a thorough tenant criminal background check on any applicant before accepting them as a tenant. A professional property management company like SCUDO can help with this.
We'll get your home leased quickly, and if we don't do it within 30 days, you'll get a month of management for free. Contact us for a free quote today.
