NMBR LANDLORD GUIDE · FREE PRINTABLE
Tenant Screening Checklist for Landlords
Know what to ask, what to verify and what stays your decision.
Pre-screen for practical fit. Verify the application. Make and document your decision.
YOUR WORKING CHECKLIST
10 checks. Three stages.
Tenant Screening Checklist for Landlordsnmbr.homes/tenant-screening-checklist/
General US guidance, not legal advice. Adapt the process to your local requirements. Checking every box does not approve an applicant.
Progress resets on reload. No applicant data is collected here.
FIRST-CONTACT QUESTIONS
Start with the practical details.
Use the same starting questions for everyone. Keep the first conversation about the rental and the next step, not protected personal characteristics.
- When would you like to move in?
- What lease length are you looking for?
- Have you reviewed the advertised rent, terms and application process?
- Can you complete the standard application and provide the documentation it requires?
- Which of the available showing times could work for you?
WHEN SOMETHING DOES NOT ADD UP
Resolve questions before deciding.
A document or reference does not match
Ask for clarification or alternative documentation. Verify the source.
A report may contain an error
Check the discrepancy and follow the applicable dispute process before relying on the report.
An accommodation or local rule applies
Check applicable requirements. An accommodation request is not a red flag.
Before using a report to deny or change terms, read the FTC notice requirements. For protected-class and accommodation questions, consult DOJ, HUD and local guidance.
KEEP THE DECISION. HAND OVER THE FOLLOW-UP.
Nmbr handles replies and helps arrange showings.
Nmbr helps prepare and publish your listing, responds to renters and pre-screens leads. You provide access, review applications, choose the tenant and sign.
- Fri, Sep 11 · 10:30 AM
- Sat, Sep 12 · 9:00 AM
Anonymized example. Proposed times, not a confirmed booking.
See the full listing exampleHand the follow-up to Nmbr.
Open the listing chat with your address or Zillow link.
$499 one-time per listing.
Only need a credit or background report? Use a screening provider; Nmbr helps with the wider leasing process.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Tenant screening questions
What should a tenant screening checklist include?
Rental terms, written criteria, pre-screening questions, a secure application, permitted reports, income and rental-history checks, a documented decision and required notices.
What is the difference between pre-screening and tenant screening?
Pre-screening checks timing, lease terms and application readiness. Formal screening verifies the application through permitted documents, reports and references. Pre-screening is not final approval.
Is there one minimum credit score or income rule for every rental?
No. Set lawful criteria for your property and check local rules on income sources, accommodations and screening reports before adopting a cutoff.
Can I print this tenant screening checklist?
Yes. Select Print checklist, then print or Save as PDF. All 10 checks, first-contact questions and sources are included. No email required.
Does Nmbr make the final tenant decision?
No. Nmbr helps with listing, renter replies, pre-screening and showings. You review the application, handle legal requirements, choose the tenant and sign. Pre-screening does not verify credit or replace formal screening.
What happens when I select Start my listing?
Nmbr's listing chat opens. Start with your property address or Zillow link. The leasing service costs $499 one-time per listing, subject to service and refund terms; it is not a standalone screening report.
Sources and scope
General US guidance; state and local rules also apply. Sources checked , not a legal review.