FAQ’S for Tenant Screening
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SmartScreen FAQs by ClearScreening
SmartScreen FAQs by ClearScreening answers common questions about tenant screening, credit reports, criminal background checks, eviction history, income verification, report timing, security, and getting started.
Quick note: SmartScreen is designed to help landlords make more informed rental decisions while keeping the screening process simple for both landlords and applicants.
Answers about reports, timing, payments, and secure access.
The landlord can pay or pass the fee to the applicant.
Independent landlords, property managers, and leasing agents.
Screening Process FAQs
What does SmartScreen’s tenant screening process include?
SmartScreen provides tenant screening services that may include credit reports, criminal background checks, rental history, employment verification, and income assessments to help landlords make informed decisions.
Who pays for SmartScreen?
The landlord can choose who pays. The landlord may pay the screening fee, or the landlord may pass the fee on to the applicant.
What kind of credit checks are conducted?
SmartScreen conducts a credit check that includes an overview of the applicant’s credit score, debts, payment history, and delinquencies that may affect the applicant’s ability to pay rent on time.
Reports and Timing FAQs
How long does the tenant screening process take?
The reports can be completed in 5 minutes; it just depends on how quickly the applicant starts and completes the process.
Does SmartScreen conduct nationwide criminal background checks?
Yes. SmartScreen conducts nationwide criminal background checks that may include federal, state, and county records to help identify criminal history that may pose a risk.
How can I share SmartScreen reports with my clients?
SmartScreen provides an online dashboard where landlords can access, download, and share tenant screening reports with clients in a secure manner.
Income Verification FAQs
Is income verification mandatory for every applicant?
Income verification is included with SmartScreen Plus and Premium service options to help verify the applicant’s ability to afford the rent comfortably.
Can SmartScreen help me assess a self-employed applicant’s income?
Yes. For self-employed applicants, income may be reviewed through documentation such as tax returns, bank statements, or profit and loss statements to verify income and affordability.
Helpful related page: Learn more about SmartScreen package options on the Pricing page.
Security and Compliance FAQs
Are SmartScreen’s reports compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act?
SmartScreen’s tenant screening processes and reports are designed to be compliant with FCRA regulations, helping protect both landlords and tenants throughout the screening process.
How secure is tenant information provided to SmartScreen?
SmartScreen prioritizes security and uses industry-standard encryption to protect tenant data and help keep sensitive information confidential.
Getting Started FAQs
How do I get started with SmartScreen?
Getting started is simple. Sign up on the SmartScreen website, then begin submitting applications for screening. SmartScreen also offers onboarding support for new users.
Where can I review packages before signing up?
You can review SmartScreen package options on the Pricing page, then choose the package that fits your applicant review process.
Still Have Questions?
Contact SmartScreen if you need help choosing a screening package, understanding reports, or getting started.
Ready to start screening?
Create your landlord account and choose the SmartScreen package that fits your rental process.