How to Screen Tenants in Chicago: A Step-by-Step Landlord Guide
- Jason Rowland
- May 15
- 3 min read
Updated: May 16
Finding a reliable tenant is the single most important thing you can do as a Chicago landlord. A quality tenant pays on time, treats your property well, and stays long-term. A poor tenant can cost you thousands in lost rent, repairs, and legal fees. Here is how to screen tenants effectively — and legally — in Chicago.
Step 1: Set clear written rental criteria before advertising
Before you accept a single application, document your rental criteria in writing. This should include minimum income requirements (typically 2.5–3x monthly rent), credit score threshold, acceptable rental history, and employment verification standards. Written criteria protect you from fair housing complaints by proving consistent, objective standards applied to all applicants.
Step 2: Use a comprehensive rental application
Your application should collect full legal name, current and prior addresses (5 years), employer information, income documentation, and references from previous landlords. Require a signed authorization for background and credit checks. In Chicago, the Chicago Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) governs what you can and cannot ask — consult the ordinance or an attorney before creating your form.
Step 3: Run a credit and background check
Use a reputable screening service such as TransUnion SmartMove, RentSpree, or Buildium to run credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history. Look for patterns — a single medical collection is very different from a history of missed rent payments. Illinois law limits how criminal history can be used in tenant screening decisions. Review current guidance before making any adverse action based on criminal history.
Step 4: Verify income and employment
Request the last two pay stubs, a current employer letter, or the prior year's tax return for self-employed applicants. Bank statements can supplement income verification. Income verification is one of the strongest predictors of on-time rent payment — do not skip this step.
Step 5: Call prior landlords — not just the current one
Always call the landlord before the current one. A current landlord who has a problem tenant may give a glowing reference just to get them out. The previous landlord has no such incentive. Ask directly: Did they pay on time? Would you rent to them again? Did they give proper notice?
Let Mane Properties handle tenant screening for you
Tenant screening takes time, expertise, and knowledge of fair housing law. Mane Properties manages the entire screening process for Chicago landlords — from application to placement — so you get a qualified, vetted tenant without the risk. Contact us to learn about our tenant placement services.
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Legal disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Laws governing landlord-tenant relationships and property management vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation.
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