how do to tell tenants their application has been denied?

[Adam Azam]

Just wondering. I have a current vacancy and the last few people that's called about it were 2 convicted sex offenders and 1 known druggie that has limited income and a troubling criminal history. I'm struggling with how to tactfully tell them they were denied.

[Marcus Auerbach]

Terrible advice here! 

Never tell a tenant they are denied. NEVER!

You are opening yourself up to a world of trouble, all the way to fair houisng law issues! And it all starts with a hard rejection. Nobody like to be rejected and some people will get angry and try to get back at you. They will make up an accusation if you have to. Appearing cold and heartless is making it even more interesting.

First option is always to let the conversation go dormant, most people get it, because they have multiple applications going.

If you are put on the spot, talk about missing information on their application, more background check, slow process. Run out the clock. If you really have to tell them they are currently not the strongest applicant, that sounds a lot better than rejected.