All Forum Posts by: James Are

Seattle adopted this a few years ago. It’s ridiculous. With recidivism rates at around 50% criminal history is absolutely predictive of risk. There’s been some successful lawsuits were tenants sued the landlord for bringing in sex offenders to a multi family dwelling. I think most citizens don’t realize that this has passed and that landlords will have to bring more criminals into their buildings. I’m sure if there was more awareness there’d be a public backlash. 

I also call the employer and ask if the applicant is currently employed in a stable position and let the employer provide as much or as little information as they wish. The call to former landlords is generally more informative but both calls are definitely worth the time. I only make calls for the candidate(s) I plan to move in. 

In Seattle we’re required to accept deposits in installments. I promote the use of deposit-alternatives instead like Obligo. Most landlords seem happy with their services and it reduces the risk from having a tenant move in with a partial deposit.