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Overview

Before landlords lease rental property, they want to know if a tenant will pay the rent, maintain the property and get along with other residents. To do this, landlords use a number of techniques to screen tenants. This module describes these techniques so that participants know what to expect and can be prepared.

This module covers how to read and complete a rental application; credit reports, a screening device used by many landlords; a basic introduction to credit reports, including how consumers can obtain a copy of their credit report; and ways to improve a credit report. It also covers fair housing regulations, which are intended to control and protect against discriminatory screening practices.

Support Video

Instructor References

• Annual Credit Report (1-877-322-8228)
• State guides to credit issues and credit reports
• Free Credit Report
• Check Your Free Credit Report
• Fair Housing-It’s Your Right
• Wisconsin’s Fair Housing Law and Complaint Process

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Understand why and how landlords screen applications and how to prepare.
2. Become familiar with the information on a credit report, how it is used and how to improve a credit report.
3. Be aware of the fair housing protections available and where to find assistance for fair housing mistreatment.

References to websites and resources used in this publication are not an endorsement of one product over other similar products.

Acknowledgements