In most cases, the question will yield yes as an answer. Not all landlords will go for a background check, but, it nevertheless stays as the standard practice.
Similarly, the potential tenant often pays for background checks. Still, a few of the apartment notice boards explicitly state that they do not require background checks for being rented out.
In the background checks, the following are typically covered:
- Criminal records
- Education
- Employment status
- Past employments
- Car and license history
- Credit check
Criminal background checks vastly involve convictions for felonies and misdemeanors and the dismissed, acquitted, and pending charges.
Can a landlord deny my house rent application if I have a felony conviction on my criminal record?
Most unfortunately, the answer is yes. However, if you were arrested and not convicted, it is not a sufficient reason to deny your application. Being a drug addict is also sufficient grounds to deny your apartment rent application.
Technically, a drug addict is considered a disabled person and finds protection under the Fair Housing Act. However, if one has been convicted of the distribution or manufacturing of drugs, the landlord retains the right to deny renting his apartment.
Large property management companies are more likely to deny your house rent application. Other apartment complexes are likely to be more open-minded in this regard.
What happens if my record is sealed?
Once a record is sealed, it is no longer available to the general public and can be accessed only via a court order. If your record is sealed, a felony conviction on it won’t be visible if a background check takes place.
If you’d prefer to have your criminal record sealed, you stand a better chance if you committed the felony as a juvenile. A better alternative, in this case, would be to have your felony expunged, though it is not easy. If you feel that you have a case for sealing or expunging your felony record, get in touch with a lawyer.
Secure Character References
In case a felony is listed on your record, unfair as it may be, you might be perceived as untrustworthy. It is a part and parcel of the matter and is difficult to avoid. An ex-felon might have to put in efforts to prove himself to be otherwise.
Since the levels of scrutiny are high, the value of references is enhanced because in this case, a third party delivers a character reference for you.
It is recommendable to get as many possible recommendations as possible from the people willing to vouch for you. This could be your family, a former rehab facility, or former employers. By getting more letters written, you’d project yourself as a quality tenant.
To secure a reference, you would want to get a written letter that portrays you as a high-character individual who seeks a second chance. Former landlords will be in a position to write the most impactful references and exemplify how your conduct was when they had you as a tenant.
Get in touch with ReeCareers today for elaborate options for Felon Housing Programs, jobs hiring felons, and rehabilitation programs for felons.
