Check your own credit

Check your own credit before applying for a house or an apartment. Most landlords will require that you pay a non-refundable screening fee when applying. It is in your best interests to know what’s on your report before then. It will also help you determine if you fit the criteria required by the landlord, before paying the screening fee. If you already know you won’t meet their criteria, then don’t waste your money or your time. Checking your own credit will also give you a chance to clean up any problems or discrepancies on your report before you actually start applying for places.
Everyone is entitled to a free copy of their credit report each year. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com to obtain yours.

Disclaimer: The material on the Rental Housing Association of Puget Sound’s website does not constitute legal advice, but rather information for your general guidance and help. Laws and regulations change and may change faster than our web pages are updated. There may be other facts which would result in a different interpretation and different results. If you need legal advice, consult your attorney.