Renters application information

[Tom R.]

My first property is currently in escrow. I am in the process of writing up applications and agreements. What kind of documentation do you require for your rental agreements?

IE proof of citizenship or legal residency, how many months of pay stubs,number of references...

What do you charge for an application fee for things like credit checks and background checks?

Any other helpful advice? 

[Bettina F.]

My credit check company, National Credit Reporting, does require a SSN.  (And I am not a guru.)  The LL is also responsible for verifying ID.  I require applicants to bring a government issued photo ID and one recent paycheck stub.   The paycheck stub will have YTD information.  I bring a copier to the showing and copy these documents right then.   I do not ask for proof of citizenship per se, or ask to see a Social Security card.  Part of the credit report is a verification of the SSN with the information the applicant provided on the credit check application.   I verify employment by looking up the number of the applicant's employer myself and calling the company to ask for the supervisor.