Automate tenant screening using a third-party screening API

Steps

1. Select a tenant screening API provider that offers programmatic access (e.g., TransUnion SmartMove, RentSpree, or similar); note that most require the applicant to initiate and consent to the report pull.
2. Implement an application flow where the prospective tenant submits their information (name, SSN last 4, date of birth, current address) and provides explicit written consent for a credit and background check.
3. Use the provider's API to send an invitation link to the applicant's email address; the applicant completes identity verification and consents directly on the provider's platform.
4. Poll or receive a webhook callback when the report is ready; retrieve the report summary including credit score range, eviction history flag, criminal background flag, and income verification status.
5. Apply your screening criteria (e.g., minimum credit score, no evictions in past 5 years) programmatically to generate a pass/fail/review decision.
6. Store only the decision and summary fields, not the full report, unless your data retention policy and the provider's ToS permit full report storage.