Residential History

The applicant's residential history will be examined.  Current and former landlords and mortgage holders will be canvassed.  Derogatory information such as, but not limited to the applicant's care for leased or rented property, lease or rent payment history, and complaints received regarding the applicant will usually be evaluated on a case by case basis.

The background investigator will contact former landlords, mortgage holders and/or neighbors of the applicant. Questions regarding the applicant’s behavior, personality and whether the applicant was responsible in making timely rent or mortgage payments will be asked. Other questions pertaining to the applicant’s level of responsibility may be asked. The types of questions asked are numerous and depend on the investigator.

While some departments only require the applicant disclose residences for the previous ten years, some agencies ask for every residence the applicant ever resided in. Ensure that all addresses are correct and have updated telephone numbers.