What Information Can You Find in an Applicant's Credit Report?
Updated 1 month 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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