Tenant application with low credit score - how to reply

[John Chung]

Hey all,

New landlord here.  I recently got someone looking to rent my unit.  Unfortunately, this individual has less than standard credit score (close to 500).  Also has outstanding collections on some credit cards.

I feel like this is risky and I would like to deny the potential tenant respectfully and without getting into any legal battle.

So with this...my question is...

In my denial letter, do I have to state what credit score I am looking for?  (i.e. above 620)? or can I just say denied due to "low credit score"?
Also, do I have to supply them with the credit score report company that I used to make my decision?

Finally, does anyone know of a site that I can go look at sample landlord letters of denial or similar format?

Thanks

[Jill F.]

If you deny based on credit score the FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) requires that you notify the tenant and the tenant can get a free copy of their credit report from the agency that supplied the report. In OHIO, (you should know the rules in your state and muni), if you deny based on application info or for other reasons without pulling a credit report you do not have to give any reason at all. I usually do not pull credit until I'm ready to offer the unit contingent on credit report.