Screening tenants for criminal records

[Sam Leon]

I don't know about other landlords, but I do a quick Google of those who requested a viewing, and I ask them to fill out a quick questionairre before I even schedule a viewing, things like how many parking spaces do you need, do you intend to smoke or vape on the premises, your move in date etc...

When I do Google their names sometimes I see criminal records listed.  For example recently I had two and these are their charges:

PERSON A

• AGG ASSAULTW/ DEADLY WEAPON WITHOUT INTENT TO KILL
• TOUCH OR STRIKE/BATTERY/DATING VIOL

PERSON B

• CORRUPT BY THREAT PUBLIC SERVANT OR FAMILY
• DUI ALCOHOL OR DRUGS 1ST OFFENSE
• RESIST OFFICER-OBSTRUCT WITHOUT VIOLENCE

This is before viewing the apartment, before actual application.  I feel like not wasting my time and just say no, because these are recent (less than 2 years) and these are not jaywalking or parking at expired meters.  These look pretty serious to me.

But can I just say no, not even showing the place, and move on?  I understand we can no longer just reject someone based on having criminal records, will I get into trouble by doing this?