When you are convicted of a crime, details from your arrest to that of the charge will remain on your record indefinitely. It’s hard enough having a record and being harshly judged by society but when you try to change your life and basic steps such as renting an apartment become a frustrating venture, what can you do?
Even for those who have a negative credit rating, renting is a challenge but with a criminal record, it becomes that much harder. While records are forever, struggling to make a better future for yourself, possibly your family, and rent an apartment can be achieved if you know where to start and the steps you need to take to make it happen.
In this guide, we explore options from clearing your record to looking for rentals that won’t turn you away because of your past.
Why Criminal Records are Worth a Mention When You Apply to Rent an Apartment
If you’ve heard of a background check, you may be surprised to know that landlords can perform these checks before offering a lease to a potential applicant. The purpose of the background check is to help landlords find reliable and honest tenants. The information that you provide in your application should reflect what is on your background check. So, if you have been evicted multiple times, then a background check will reveal these evictions.
If you have been arrested but not charged, the arrest will still appear in the check. This is why it is so important to be honest in your application. You don’t have to go into detail about the circumstances but don’t try to conceal the arrest or the charge. This will lead to your apartment application being denied.
Getting Your Record Cleared
Is there an option to get your record cleared? Certain types of charges can be expunged or cleared by a court or judge. This can be a costly process because it involves hiring a lawyer and legal proceedings. If you cannot get your record cleared, then you’ll need to consider another way to find a place to rent.
It’s not impossible to rent with a criminal record. It’s a lot harder than if you had negative credit or a prior eviction but it is also important to note that you shouldn’t be turned away if you meet all of the qualifying criteria for an apartment in your application based on a single arrest.
Remember that the type of charge also plays a major role in getting accepted to rent. In Public Housing, violent or drug related criminal charges may prevent you from being approved because the HUD has a responsibility to protect its residents. These types of charges are viewed as a risk to the community.
Types of Housing that Accepts Criminal Records
Fortunately, you can rent an apartment if you have a criminal record and in most cases, your record shouldn’t be discriminated against when you apply for housing.
If you are looking for an affordable rental and you have a family to take care of, you can look for HUD housing. The HUD is the leading public housing agency in the US and its purpose is to assist every person with decent and economical housing. When you feel that you are in a difficult position because of a felony or record then you can contact the HUD who can help you find suitable housing in your area.
Consider second chance housing. Get in touch with second chance rental providers in your region to find out if you qualify for an apartment to rent.
Tips for Renting an Apartment
Provide proof of income. Landlords want to know that you earn enough to cover your monthly rent and your security deposit.
References. This is particularly important when you have a criminal record. References from your employer, friends, and colleagues can go a long way to improving the view or opinion of your character.
By taking a little bit of time to learn about your options, you can move forward with renting and reaching your goals!
