Stop using this screening shortcut

Landlords are lazy.

Yep, we said it.

How else do you explain the guy who thinks watching an episode of Cops counts as tenant screening?

Look, screening tenants is important.

But there are some lines you just can't cross.

Like a tenant's arrest record.

Just because someone got cuffed doesn’t mean they’re guilty of anything.

Maybe they just like to party?!?

Either way, you don’t get to play judge, jury, and executioner.

Sir, we have some questions for you...

Like, do you really want to turn down a solid tenant just because they had a wild spring break in ‘08?

Here’s the deal:

Don't consider arrests when screening tenants.

It’s not just bad practice — it’s illegal.

If you pull a background check and see arrests, close your eyes and scroll on.

Stick to convictions, if anything.

By Landlord Legal

Hold my beer, that's issue #128 of The Brief.

A landlord just lost enough money to cover 3 years of the Legal Plan — because they botched the eviction notice.  One 30-second call with our team could've fixed it.

Don't play lawyer.  Join the Legal Plan, and do it right the first time.

DISCLAIMER: Heads up - none of this is legal advice. We share stories and laughs about legal stuff for Landlords.  Do your own homework and stay safe out there!