RAWV recommends that all landlords do a thorough job screening prospective tenants. The RAWV also recommends that you do a background criminal history and credit history on all applicants 18 years of age and older. New laws require that you treat married couples the same as single individuals, meaning that if you do a background check on unmarried prospective "couples" then you need a separate background check on each married partner also.

The process to qualify as a client (landlord) is more complicated than it used to be. The Credit Bureaus have announced new strict requirements for obtaining credit reports. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires that one must have a "permissible purpose" for obtaining credit reports. To make is easier we have come up with a two step process, depending on the type of background checks you choose to do, you have two options. To apply for the second option, the first option must be completed first.

First Option/Phase 1
Background checks without credit report included

If you are a member of the RAWV, or are joining now and wish to use either option, you must first please complete the Option 1/Phase One. Click here for RAWV Screening Agreement and Landlord/Property Management Information Sheet and accompaning packet information.

Attach a $35.00 check made out to the RAWV and send to PO Box 554, Wenatchee, WA 98807. You can include this in the same envelope as your application for membership. The $35.00 covers our bookkeeping cost to process your application. At this point you are qualified to recieve two screening reports that The Information Source has developed for those of you who may choose not to meet, cannot meet, or those who have not yet completed the second option. The two reports that don't include the credit report are:

Essential Report - $29.50
Contains a criminal report, as well as sex offender registry search. In addition, it includes a nationwide eviction, judgment, and lien search, plus an ID verification which shows additional names and addresses the applicant has used. You will recieve a bill from the RAWV after you obtain your report.

Protector Report - $40
Contains a criminal and court report, a sex offender registry search, verification of addresses and phone numbers listed on the application, references from all landlords listed as well as all employers listed. In addition, it includes a nation wide eviction, judgment, and lien search, plus an ID verification which shows additional names and address the applicant has used, plus rental related debt is research and verification of that debt is attempted. You will receive a bill from RAWV after you obtain your report.

Option Two/Phase 2
Credit Screening and background check (Recommended by RAWV)

If you choose to pursue qualifying for credit reports then you must complete complete the Credit Bureau Requirements Application Packet. The process is outlined in the packet and includes documentation that proves you are in business as a residential rental business. It also includes an inspection of your "storefront" or "home" office, which will cost $65.00.

In short, the Credit industry is limiting access to credit reports to valid businesses. These requirements must be met to obtain credit reports. One of the requirements is that you are a member of our organization. Once you qualify you are eligible to receive one of these two reports. Remember this takes time. Allow one week after you have completed the application and sent it in to get an inspection. You may fax the information to the number that is included in the packet if you wish to speed it up. You may also include your credit card information to make the payment. The reports you receive will include a credit report. You can choose either option.

QUICK CHECK REPORT - $29.50
This provides you with a credit report, a criminal check (1), an eviction check (1) and a search of our "Renter Data Base". You will receive a bill from RAWV after you obtain your report.

COMPLETE REPORT - $40.00
This provides you with a credit report, a criminal check (1), an eviction check (1), a search of our "Renter Data Base", verification of addresses and phone numbers listed on the application, references from all landlords listed as well as all employers listed and banking information.You will receive a bill from RAWV after you obtain your report.

For the Information Source Fax Cover sheet click here (Form #52)

For more information about The Information Source, check their website, www.TISource.com