I would do a criminal background check, a credit check, look at their pay stubs, and call the last two landlords.

My friend may need to call a lawyer since it appears that criminal charges were filed against the previous property owner the day after the property changed hands and the solicitor is unwilling to answer any questions about said charges as my friend is not the named defendant yet was the legal owner at the time. 

They passed a credit check, federal and state criminal and eviction searches.

I've yet to find a "one stop shop" for credit, criminal, or other screening elements here in ME.

Just got to sign some papers stating it's okay for them to prosecute whoever stole the meter if found.

My concern is that the unit under eviction will be heavily damaged with no security deposit and insurance doesn't cover tenant damage, though a criminal act.

I have had a tenant in place for almost a year who looked like a bad renter on paper (low credit score, fluctuating income, criminal history, etc) but she turned out to be the dream tenant.

Additionally, there are some good websites where you can pay for credit checks and/or criminal background checks.

Great job 809 credit score. 12 hits on criminal record the worst being battery with intent to cause physical harm (3 counts total) and Burglary of a Dwelling.

7.If you like the property, are you willing to fill out an application for a credit, criminal, and eviction history report?