What Information Can You Find in an Applicant's Credit Report?
Updated 11 days ago (March 6, 2026)
Since landlords want to be sure their tenants will pay on time, having access to a credit report can give you an idea of a tenant's history of on-time payments.
A credit score is based on information from a credit-reporting agency (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). The higher the applicant's credit score, the better the credit history, and the more likely they are to fulfill their tenant obligations.
A credit report usually covers a timespan of seven to ten years. Some of the information you find may be state-dependent, but might include some of the following:
If the applicant has ever filed for bankruptcy
If the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime, or if they have ever been arrested
If the applicant has ever been evicted
If the applicant has ever been involved in a personal injury claim
If the applicant has ever been delinquent in paying rent or loans
If the applicant has been financially active enough to establish a credit history
Depending on the agency, you might find the applicant's credit score, which indicates the risk that an individual will default on payments.
Legal Disclaimer: Tellus provides this content for informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and locality, and regulations may have changed since this article was published. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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