1. Do I have to be a subscriber or may any landlord or property manager use this service? Any landlord or property manager may use this service. There are no membership fees, monthly dues, start-up or subscription fees required to use this service.

2. What are the requirements that must be followed under the Fair Credit Reporting Act? You must sign RealChek’s End-User Agreement which confirms that you are a landlord or property manager and that the credit report is being used in connection with screening a prospective tenant. You need to fax this to RealChek and they will assign you a User Name and Password. You only do this once and each time that you need a credit report you simply enter your User Name and Password.

3. How do I obtain the credit report? You have three (3) choices by fax, email or mail.

4. I am aware of other services which allow access via e-mail or computer screen so why don’t you? Violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act are serious and subject you to a $5,000.00 fine and/or prison sentences. Therefore, strict control protects the rights of everyone involved, you as the landlord or property manager, Cain Publications Inc., RealChek America, Inc., and your prospective tenants. Every request for credit reports is reviewed to make sure that FCRA is not violated. This is why you may be requested to provide additional information. Also, you must keep your rental applications for three (3) years in case you are audited.

5. May I charge my prospective renter an application fee to cover the cost of the credit report? Yes you may. However, some states and jurisdictions limit the amount that you may charge or do not allow you to charge more than the actual cost that you pay.

6. What kind of credit report will I receive and will I be able to read it? RealChek obtains credit reports through Trans Union. You will receive the Trans Union how to read credit report. Plus, you will receive RealChek’s Guide to Credit Reports which gives you a how to read and what to look for as a landlord or property manager. This should answer all your questions. You may contact RealChek America, Inc. for a FREE first time review.

7. What if I deny an applicant because of something on their credit report? You are required by the FCRA to give a denial notice. This denial notice must contain certain language and information. RealChek America, Inc. will provide you with a copy of the denial notice which you will use.

8. I understand that the credit report has a score which is included at no additional cost. What is the purpose of the score? This is the FICO (Fair, Isaac & Company) rating system that is used to predict whether the applicant will be delinquent within 24 months. If you use the score and apply the same standard to all applicants then you will be in compliance with the Fair Housing Law. RealChek has covered the credit score in their Guide.