10 best tenant screening services [2024 edition]

by Stephen Michael White

Author

August 9, 2024

Last Updated

Tenant Screening

Criteria for evaluating a tenant screening service

Before comparing the features of each service, here are some key factors to look for as you weigh your options:

Price: Select a service with transparent pricing and no hidden fees, ensuring you get the most value for your budget while still receiving comprehensive screening. In our experience, the cheapest options usually come up short and expose you to more risk than necessary. There’s no point in saving a few dollars when it might cost you thousands down the road.
Comprehensive background checks: Opt for services that provide extensive background checks, including criminal history, credit reports, eviction records, and employment verification, to give you a complete picture of your potential tenant. Avoid services that only offer a credit report.
Ease of use: Choose a platform with an intuitive interface that helps simplify the screening process such that your applicants can respond quickly and easily. This will also save you time and reduce the likelihood of errors.
Data security: Confirm the service uses robust encryption and follows stringent data privacy protocols to protect sensitive information about you and your applicants.
Additional features: Look for extra functions like automatic notifications, customizable screening criteria, and integration with property management software to help streamline your operations.
Customer support: Select a service with responsive and knowledgeable customer support that can assist you promptly in case of any issues or questions.

Top 10 tenant screening services

1. RentPrep

RentPrep stands out as a premier tenant screening service tailored to the needs of landlords and property managers who prioritize both thoroughness and efficiency in their rental processes.

With a history of serving over 150,000 landlords and conducting over 2 million tenant screenings, RentPrep has built a solid reputation around reliability, ease of use, and highly trained customer support.

Unlike many other platforms, RentPrep offers more than automated credit and background checks. FCRA-certified screeners are deeply involved in delivering the service, which helps ensure accuracy and compliance.

RentPrep is also designed to streamline the tenant screening process, which makes it easier for applicants to provide the necessary information and authorization required for a detailed and comprehensive background check. In the end, this makes finding the best possible tenants simpler and more effective for landlords.

Whether you manage a few properties or oversee a large portfolio, RentPrep adapts to your specific requirements, offering everything from detailed background checks to full credit reports with scores, income verification, and more.

Its user-friendly interface, complemented by the option to have tenants pay for their screenings, adds a layer of convenience and flexibility that RentPrep customers appreciate.

For those who manage and/or own larger portfolios, RentPrep Enterprise introduces customizable workflows, dedicated account representatives, and enhanced add-on searches, catering to a wide range of industries from single-family rentals to vacation rentals and beyond.

Key features of RentPrep:

TransUnion ResidentScore®
Nationwide eviction, judgment, and liens reports
Bankruptcy searches to assess financial stability
Comprehensive nationwide criminal and sex offender searches
Pre-verified tenant identities to streamline the screening process
FCRA-certified screening practices for reliable results
Easy-to-use, centralized dashboard for managing screening requests
Mobile-friendly platform for access on the go
Fast and efficient screening requests, enabling quick decision-making
Add-on options for income verification and credit decision reports
High-volume tenant screening solutions with RentPrep Enterprise
Customizable workflows for tailored screening processes (Enterprise)
Dedicated account representatives for personalized support (Enterprise)
Diverse industry applicability, including RV campgrounds, storage units, and more
Automated or manual Enterprise account options to suit different operational styles
Support for property managers and non-property managers alike

Pricing

With options from basic screenings to comprehensive, high-volume Enterprise solutions, RentPrep’s pricing plans are tailored to suit various requirements and budgets.

Here’s a closer look at each of the three primary plans offered by RentPrep:

1. RentPrep background check for $21

If you prefer a focused approach to background checks without the full credit report, RentPrep offers a custom solution for this:

SSN validation: Confirms the validity of the Social Security Number provided
Nationwide evictions: Identifies any past evictions across the United States
Bankruptcies: Checks for any bankruptcy filings
Judgment and liens: Includes details on judgments and liens, offering a clearer financial picture of the applicant

Note that The Credit Decision Report generates a report that can give you a simple pass/fail score based on a custom FICO credit standard established by the landlord.

Add-ons

Nationwide criminal & sex offender search (additional $6): Extends the screening to cover criminal and sex offender databases
Credit decision report (additional $11): Delivers a summary report of an applicant’s credit history
Income verification (additional $10): Confirms a tenant’s stated income

2. TransUnion full credit report for $40

TransUnion’s full credit report via SmartMove is a robust option for landlords, offering in-depth insights into a potential tenant’s creditworthiness and background:

Full credit report: A detailed overview of an applicant’s credit history
ResidentScore®: A unique scoring system designed to predict rental outcomes more accurately than evaluating traditional credit scores
SSN verification/address history: Validates an applicant’s Social Security number and traces their address history
Nationwide criminal & sex offender search: Offers peace of mind by screening for criminal records and sex offender registrations across the country
Nationwide evictions: Searches for any eviction records that could indicate a risk
Bankruptcies: Reveals any bankruptcy filings to assess financial stability

Add-ons

Judgment and liens (additional $7): Provides insight into any judgments or liens against the applicant
Income verification (additional $10): Verifies an applicant’s income, helping ensure they can afford the rent

3. Enterprise High Volume Tenant Screening

Tailored for larger owners and property management companies, this plan supports high-volume resident screening with efficiency and customization (contact RentPrep for pricing):

Dedicated account rep: Offers personalized support and assistance throughout the screening process
Automated workflows: Streamlines operations, making the screening process more efficient
Applicant pay options: Allows applicants to bear the cost of their screening
Tier screening: Supplies different levels of screening based on landlord requirements
Yardi integration: Ensures compatibility with Yardi property management software for seamless operations
API integration: Enables integration with other systems for a unified workflow
Advanced search capabilities: Provides enhanced search functions for comprehensive checks

Who RentPrep is ideal for

RentPrep is perfect for rental property owners that understand how important tenant selection is and value the peace of mind that comes with a human-validated background check. Fully automated screening services may sound quick and efficient, but they can be prone to false identity matches and missed red flags.

2. TransUnion/SmartMove

SmartMove(R) leverages TransUnion’s extensive database to provide detailed background checks, credit reports, and eviction histories. It offers landlords quick and generally reliable insights into the risks that may be associated with a prospective tenant.

Highlights

Provides comprehensive reports quickly, including credit checks, criminal background checks, eviction records, and income insights
Offers a unique ResidentScore that claims to help predict rental eviction risk
Allows flexibility in payment options, letting landlords choose whether or not applicants cover the cost of the screening

Shortcomings

The Criminal Report and Eviction Related Proceedings Report are subject to federal, state, and local laws, potentially limiting or restricting the availability of certain records and leading to incomplete background checks
May be more expensive than other tenant screening services, a possible drawback for budget-conscious landlords
Requires tenants to complete the screening process online, potentially causing delays if not completed in a timely manner

Pricing

SmartCheck Basic ($25): Offers ResidentScore and criminal background report
SmartCheck Plus ($40): Includes Basic features plus credit and eviction-related reports
SmartCheck Pro ($45): Includes all features plus an income insights report

Who SmartMove is ideal for

SmartMove offers detailed reporting options and is great for landlords who want to move as fast as possible.

3. Experian Connect

Experian Connect allows landlords to efficiently screen potential tenants through comprehensive credit reports and background checks, leveraging extensive data for detailed insights. Its partnership with Zillow(R) integrates tenant screening with the rental application process, offering landlords and property managers a seamless and reliable solution.

Highlights

Integrates seamlessly with Zillow’s rental application process
Offers consumer-permissioned reports that prioritize tenant privacy and allow applicants to maintain control over personal information

Shortcomings

Dependent on tenant consent, potentially limiting the availability of information
Takes 1–2 business days for the manual review process, potentially delaying the screening result

Price

Renters incur a $35 fee for the application and screening reports and can use the reports for multiple Zillow listings.

Who Experian Connect is ideal for

This platform is best suited for landlords seeking integration with Zillow’s rental application process.

4. Apartments.com

Apartments.com(™) tenant screening offers key information, including income-to-rent ratios, employment status, and rental history, helping landlords make quick and informed decisions. With the TransUnion ResidentScore, landlords can predict an applicant’s likelihood of paying rent on time, and tenants can share their application and tenant screening reports for 30 days with up to 10 participating landlords.

Highlights

Utilizes TransUnion’s ResidentScore, a predictive credit scoring system that evaluates an applicant’s likelihood of paying rent on time
Offers the ability to screen tenants quickly, helping assess qualified renters quickly

Shortcomings

Allows applicants 30 days to share reports, potentially resulting in outdated information
Lacks the option for landlords to pay for tenant screening if they wish to do so

Price

The platform charges potential renters $29 plus tax for their application and tenant screening reports, which can be shared with up to 10 participating landlords for 30 days.

Who Apartments.com is ideal for

For landlords seeking a fast tenant screening solution that integrates credit, criminal, and eviction histories, along with employment and rental background checks, Apartments.com is a good option.

5. My Rental Spot

My Rental Spot offers a screening service paid for by the tenant ($30) that leverages TransUnion data, providing property managers with background checks, eviction records, and credit reports to assist them in selecting reliable tenants without incurring extra costs.

Highlights

Integrates with an array of property management tools, including automated rent payments, customizable lease agreements, and detailed income and expense tracking
Simplifies the tenant screening process through its online wizard to quickly generate and manage screening documents and lease agreements

Shortcomings

Relies on applicants to facilitate the screening process, potentially resulting in delays if necessary steps aren’t promptly completed
Offers extensive features and options, possibly overwhelming users seeking a straightforward, minimalist tenant screening service

Pricing Plans

Tenant screening is $30, paid by the tenant, with either pricing plan:

Basic (free for landlords): Includes a personalized listing page, application and tenant screening, lease tracking and management, financial tools, and maintenance request tracking
Essential (coming soon, starting at $45/month): Offers all Basic features plus repair coordination services and connections to local leasing agents for extensive property management support

Who My Rental Spot is ideal for

This platform is best for landlords seeking a cost-effective tenant screening service that integrates with property management tools.

6. RentRedi

RentRedi offers landlords an all-in-one property management solution that facilitates tenant screening with TransUnion-certified background checks, including comprehensive credit, criminal, and eviction reports. The platform also provides Plaid-certified income verification add-on, and its features are all accessible through a user-friendly mobile app.

Highlights

Utilizes TransUnion-certified background checks coupled with Plaid-certified income verification for thorough tenant vetting
Offers a user-friendly mobile app to both landlords and tenants for convenient property management and complete screening processes on the go

Shortcomings

Charges a $39.99 tenant screening fee for screenings without income and asset verification settings , possibly deterring some applicants
Integrates multiple functions into a single platform, potentially leading to a steep learning curve for new users, especially those who only require basic tenant screening services

Pricing

All RentRedi plans have a tenant screening fee of $39.99, paid for by the tenant, with add-on services like premium maintenance via Latchel available at an extra cost for landlords.

Who RentRedi is ideal for

Landlords seeking a comprehensive subscription-based property management solution that combines tenant screening with mobile app functionality may find RentRedi to be a decent option.

7. Avail

Avail provides landlords with detailed online tenant screening services, including complete TransUnion credit reports, with screening options that include nationwide criminal history, and eviction records, helping ensure a thorough evaluation of prospective tenants. The platform also allows tenants to securely authorize and verify their reports, resulting in instant availability for landlords without impacting the tenant’s credit score.

Highlights

Offers three tenant screening report options, giving landlords a comprehensive overview of prospective tenants
Offers additional in-depth features, such as automated residence and employment reference checks, income verification, and customizable screening questions

Shortcomings

Relies on tenant participation for authorizing and verifying reports, potentially causing delays if steps aren’t completed promptly
Includes an extensive list of features, possibly overwhelming landlords who only need basic tenant screening services
Screening report costs vary based on geography due to state laws, leading to inconsistent pricing that can be confusing for landlords

Pricing

The cost of tenant screening through Avail plans differs by location due to state laws, and landlords need to select the required reports for each applicant. Tenant screening report fees can be covered by either the tenant or the landlord, depending on the landlord’s preference.

Who Avail is ideal for

For landlords seeking a detailed and customizable tenant screening service, Avail offers comprehensive credit, criminal, and eviction reports along with automated reference checks and income verification, all initiated securely by the tenant.

8. MyRental

MyRental provides landlords with an extensive tenant screening service, offering a range of detailed background reports such as credit checks, housing court data, multi-state criminal searches, and the proprietary TU Rental Score to predict lease fulfillment risk.

Highlights

Simplifies the screening process with a mobile-friendly online rental application, allowing applications to be sent and received on most devices
Includes specialized searches, such as sex offender registry and terrorist database checks, adding an extra layer of security

Shortcomings

Offers extensive features, potentially overwhelming or unnecessary for landlords who only require basic tenant screening services
Varies in cost for screening packages and individual reports, possibly complicating budgeting for landlords, especially when factoring in additional address information and custom report requests

Pricing

Landlords can choose from two MyRental bundled package plans or purchase individual reports:

Basic ($24.99/applicant): Includes housing court data, additional address information, terrorist alert, multi-state criminal and multi-state sex offender reports
Premium ($37.99/applicant): Includes all Basic features plus a credit report, TU Rental Score, and a renter pay option

Individual report options:

Credit report: $14.99
Housing court data: $7.99
Multi-state criminal: $19.99
Statewide criminal: $9.99
County criminal: $14.99

Who MyRental is ideal for

MyRental is a great option for landlords that prefer an a la carte pricing approach and want to pick and choose each element of their screening reports.

9. RentSpree

RentSpree offers comprehensive reports powered by TransUnion, including credit checks, background checks, and rental histories. The platform is designed for ease of use, allowing landlords and agents to generate screening requests in minutes.

Highlights

Allows landlords to manage and complete rental tasks from virtually anywhere with an easy-to-use centralized dashboard and mobile-friendly platform

Shortcomings

Necessitates printing or saving tenant screening reports to avoid data loss as they expire after 30 days

Pricing

Standard ($39.99/applicant): Offers essential tenant screening services like credit checks, background checks, and rental histories
Premium ($44.99/applicant): Includes all Standard features plus additional functionalities like income estimate and automated reference requests
Application only (free): Allows landlords to receive a rental application online and conduct their own tenant screening
RentSpree PRO ($19.99/month): Provides advanced tools like tenant screening, rental marketing, and payments to optimize the tenant management process and includes a 30-day free trial

Who RentSpree is ideal for

Landlords seeking a variety of pricing options, including free application-only services and advanced plans, may find RentSpree’s comprehensive tenant screening and management tools most beneficial.

10. TurboTenant

TurboTenant offers a comprehensive tenant screening service that includes credit, criminal, and eviction checks powered by TransUnion, all integrated into a user-friendly platform.

Highlights

Allows landlords to invite tenants via email or text to a user-friendly platform and receive detailed screening reports quickly, streamlining the screening process
Offers additional features like rental advertising, lease agreements, rent payments, and maintenance requests, making it an all-in-one solution for landlords

Shortcomings

Limits income verification, custom questions, and a reduced tenant screening fee to the paid Premium pricing plan
Offers a full suite of rental management services, potentially less suitable for landlords seeking a streamlined tenant screening process

Pricing

TurboTenant does not publicly state their tenant screening fees, but does mention that the cost is covered by the tenant.

Who TurboTenant is ideal for

TurboTenant is best suited for landlords interested in a comprehensive, cost-effective tenant screening service that’s part of a full rental property management platform.

Additional things to consider as you evaluate different tenant screening options

Choosing the right tenant screening service means looking beyond the basic features offered. Here are some additional considerations for choosing a platform that meets your needs and can enhance your overall experience:

Income verification: Detailed income verification reports, including average monthly net income and current balances, provide a clearer picture of an applicant’s financial stability.
Customizable workflows: The ability to tailor the screening process to your specific requirements can improve the efficiency of your operations. Services offering customizable workflows can help you better manage your tenant screening process.
Hand-compiled reports: Look for services that offer hand-compiled reports to ensure higher accuracy by cross-referencing multiple databases, reducing errors and omissions.
Integration with property management software: Seamless integration with property management platforms like Stessa can save you time and minimize errors, making it easier to manage tenant information.
Scalability for large portfolios: Services that cater to both small portfolios and large property management companies, offering solutions for high-volume resident screening, can accommodate growth and varying needs.
Volume discounts: If you manage a large number of units, look for services with volume pricing. That can significantly reduce your costs and provide tailored solutions for high-volume needs.
Dedicated account representative: Personalized support through a dedicated account representative can help ensure your specific needs are met quickly and effectively, providing an enhanced experience.
Educational resources: Access to a resource center, helpful blog articles, and state landlord-tenant laws can expand your understanding and management of rental properties.
Professional associations: Affiliation with reputable organizations, such as the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) and the National Apartment Association (NAA), reflects a commitment to high ethical standards and industry best practices.
Consumer protection: Affiliation with groups like Concerned CRAs helps ensure that the tenant screening service is dedicated to consumer protection and follows industry best practices.

Get started with RentPrep today

Ready to take your tenant screening process to the next level and protect your rental investments?

RentPrep’s seamless and comprehensive approach delivers accurate and compliant reports. With features like customizable workflows, dedicated account representatives, and integration with property management software, RentPrep is tailored to meet your specific needs.

Join the many thousands of landlords who use and trust RentPrep’s extensive resources.

Get started today. Set up your free RentPrep account and experience the ease and reliability of a top-rated tenant screening platform. Learn more about RentPrep and start screening with purpose and confidence.