Landlord Tenant Screening Checklist

Set clear, objective, written rental criteria

Define minimum income (typically 3x monthly rent), credit score threshold, and rental history requirements before advertising.

Ensure your criteria comply with Fair Housing laws

You cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, or any other protected class under federal and CT law.

Prepare a written rental application form

Collect name, contact info, employment, income, rental history, and references. Do not ask about protected characteristics.

Confirm the legal security deposit limit

CT law caps deposits at 2 months' rent (1 month for tenants 62+).

Prepare a written lease agreement

Use a CT-compliant lease. Consider having an attorney review it.

Write a Fair Housing compliant listing description

Describe the property — not the ideal tenant. Avoid phrases like 'perfect for young professionals' or 'great for couples.'

Include the Equal Housing Opportunity logo or statement in your listing

List on multiple platforms: Zillow, Apartments.com, Facebook Marketplace, MLS (via agent)

Respond to all inquiries promptly and consistently

Collect a completed application from every adult applicant (18+)

Verify identity with a government-issued photo ID

Verify income

Request pay stubs (last 2–3), bank statements, or offer letter. Income should be 3x monthly rent.

Run a credit check (with written consent)

Use a reputable tenant screening service. Look for payment history, collections, and bankruptcies.

Run a background check (with written consent)

CT law limits how you can use criminal history. Consult CT's guidance on individualized assessments.

Verify rental history — contact previous landlords

Ask: Did they pay on time? Did they give proper notice? Would you rent to them again?

Check references (personal and professional)

Apply your criteria consistently to all applicants

Document your decision-making process. Inconsistent application of criteria can constitute discrimination.

Select the applicant who best meets your written criteria

Send written adverse action notices to declined applicants

If you deny based on a credit or background report, federal law (FCRA) requires an adverse action notice.

Collect the security deposit and first month's rent before handing over keys

Deposit the security deposit in a separate escrow account

CT law requires this. Keep records of the account.

Provide the tenant with a written receipt for the security deposit

Complete a written move-in inspection checklist with the tenant

Both parties sign it. This protects you at move-out.

Take timestamped photos and video of the entire unit

Provide the tenant with copies of the signed lease, move-in checklist, and all addenda

Provide information on utility setup, trash/recycling, parking, and building rules

Ensure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working

Provide emergency contact information for repairs