You run a background check and verify application and you make them both liable for all rent. 

One applicant makes 3x rent and has a 792 credit score.

She will get a nice surprise next week when I show up at her door to (a) announce that I am her new property manager and (b) notify her that I will update her information with the collection agency she's been hiding from.Screen your applications, people!

As a landlord, Zillow provides you with a background check, credit score, and a well-formatted application for each applicant.

My application includes an acknowledgment that everything is true and complete.

Application screening is not a pass/fail.

I have been using RentRedi as a way to do all the screening and applications.

I provide my application and screening criteria on my website so applicants can look for themselves before spending any money.

Do they have to pay for your application?

If the applicant has a bank account, using a screening service with an Income Verification Report can give you a clearer picture of their financial stability.