Looking for an apartment can feel like a full-time job. Not only are you constantly scouring online listings to see new units available, but you’ll be in constant communication with landlords to schedule tours or ask questions. However, after what feels like months of searching, you find the perfect location. It has all the amenities you were looking for, a short community to work, and it’s in your price range! However, you may be devastated when you learn your application is denied after the tenant screening process. Unfortunately, if there are errors on your credit report, this can happen. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters and why it’s in your best interest to connect with a California credit report lawyer.
What Credit Errors Can Hurt My Tenant Screening?
When you apply for an apartment, you will go through a screening process. This is used by landlords to help ensure the people moving into their properties are good fits. As such, one factor they will check is your credit report. When you lease a property, you are required to make on-time, monthly payments. To ensure you would make these payments, the landlord or leasing company will check your credit report. As such, they may find information that can hurt your chances of being approved.
If your credit report is mixed with that of another person’s, they may have evictions or continual late payments on their account. Because this is showing up under your name, the landlord may deny your application because you would be a risky tenant. Additionally, if the credit reporting agency has incorrectly included bankruptcies or missed payments under your name, you may be denied.
It’s also important to understand that this information can arise from identity theft. For example, if someone uses your information to commit a crime, you can end up with a criminal record for offenses you never committed. This can also severely impact your ability to obtain housing.
What Can I Do if I’m Negatively Impacted?
If you are negatively impacted because of errors in your credit report, it’s important to understand your legal options. Generally, the first thing you should do is file a dispute with the reporting agency. This informs them of the inaccuracies and ensures they investigate the matter. You’ll need to submit evidence to support your claim that the information is incorrect when filing. You may also want to submit a copy of this dispute to the landlord, as it may make them change their mind about the matter.
You may be entitled to compensation for damages sustained as a result of the errors impacting your credit report. For example, you may lose the application and holding fees when denied. Additionally, you can suffer emotional damage as a result.
If you’re impacted by errors on your credit report, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced consumer defense attorney from Loker Law, APC. Our team understands how devastating and frustrating these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to assist you. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can guide you through these complex issues to help you rectify your credit report.