(I know, but it happens)Analyze their credit report and if you feel comfortable, do a background check and make sure their criminal history checks out.Another key factor is employment history.

Jeb, no offense taken at all.

@Jeffrey H. had the good point in his response.Here are criteria that we are looking for:occupation length of occupationreferences (personal, professional and landlord)If the tenant gave you permission (check your local laws about it as @Jeremiah Stephen adviced), you can check criminal records, liens, bankruptcy, unpaid bills and judgments.

We do a criminal, credit and eviction checks.

I KNOW IT SEEMS LIKE A SMALL THING, BUT IT IS HIGHLY OFFENSIVE TO THE PEOPLE YOU ARE ASKING FOR HELP.Look through the rest of these forums.

(I know, but it happens)Analyze their credit report and if you feel comfortable, do a background check and make sure their criminal history checks out.Another key factor is employment history.

The area they live in has a good share of folks with criminal backgrounds. 

Keep in mind this is a Federal  Offense and not worth it.  

They claimed they couldn't get folks that met my standards (non smokers, no pets, stable job history, no criminal background, and sufficient income).

Criminal history may not contain drug offenses within 7 years except for one conviction for possession of a controlled substance.