Are you in the process of searching for a new apartment to rent but concerned about how your criminal background may affect your application? Perhaps you have been wondering, "Can an apartment reject you for misdemeanors?" If so, you're not alone. Many renters worry that their past convictions or violations will be a barrier to securing housing. In this article, we'll explore whether or not apartments will reject tenants due to misdemeanor convictions.
We’ll discuss what surveys and studies demonstrate revealing how likely it is for landlords to refuse an applicant based on criminal activity and look at practical advice from experts who understand the renting process. Keep reading so that you know exactly what to expect when applying!
Can misdemeanors affect your ability to rent an apartment?
The answer to whether an apartment can reject you for misdemeanors is not a straightforward one, as it depends on various factors such as the type of misdemeanor, the location of the apartment, and the landlord's or property manager's policies. In some states or cities, it is against the law to discriminate against tenants with criminal records, including misdemeanors. However, landlords and property managers may still consider certain misdemeanors as disqualifying factors in the tenant screening process.
For example, a landlord may be willing to rent to a tenant with a traffic violation misdemeanor, but may automatically reject a tenant with a theft or drug-related misdemeanor.
Potential consequences of having a misdemeanor on your record
Although it is difficult to predict the exact consequence of having a misdemeanor on your record when renting an apartment, research and surveys suggest that landlords may indeed reject applicants with criminal offenses, including misdemeanors.
In a 2019 survey conducted by Apartment List, about one in five renters reported being denied housing due to their criminal history in the past three years.
The survey also revealed that tenants who had been convicted of felonies were more likely to face rejection from landlords than those with misdemeanors (27 percent versus 17 percent).It’s important to note that certain states or local jurisdictions have laws protecting individuals against this type of discrimination.
For example, California has passed numerous “Ban the Box” laws which prohibit landlords from considering criminal history when renting an apartment.
How landlords might evaluate applicants with misdemeanors
Although it may be difficult to predict if a landlord or property manager will accept an applicant with a misdemeanor conviction, there are ways to increase your chances.
One way is to explain the circumstances of your offense and demonstrate that you have changed for the better. Having a good rental history and references from previous landlords can help strengthen your case as well.
In addition, applicants should be aware of state and local laws on tenant screening that require landlords to evaluate an applicant's criminal record in a certain way.
For example, some states may limit how far back in time a landlord can look when reviewing a tenant’s criminal background. Applicants should research these rules and understand their rights before filling out rental applications.
Tips for renting with a misdemeanor
When applying for rental housing, it’s important to be honest and up-front about your criminal history. Never try to hide or misrepresent any information on the application as this may lead to serious legal consequences if the landlord discovers the truth.
Also, applicants should consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in real estate law if they have questions or need clarification about state and local regulations.
Finally, applicants can increase their chances of being accepted by landlords by presenting a strong rental history and references from prior landlords. If you're able to show that you are reliable and responsible tenant despite having a misdemeanor record, then this could sway the decision in your favor.
Resources for tenants with criminal records
There are organizations and government programs available to help tenants with criminal records find rental housing.
For example, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides resources for individuals trying to rent a home or apartment with a criminal record.
In addition, some non-profits provide services such as legal assistance, housing search support, and tenant education courses that can be helpful when applying for rental housing.
Overall, it is possible to rent an apartment after having a misdemeanor on your record - but this ultimately depends on various factors such as the type of offense and local laws protecting renters from discrimination.
Impact of current legislation on misdemeanors and housing discrimination
Thanks to current legislation, tenants who have been convicted of misdemeanors are protected from certain types of housing discrimination.
Most states now have “Ban the Box” laws which prohibit landlords from considering criminal history when renting an apartment. These laws also limit how far back in time a landlord can look when screening a tenant’s background, ensuring that those with minor offenses are not unfairly penalized.
In addition, federal regulations such as the Fair Housing Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act make it illegal for landlords to discriminate based on race, color, national origin and other protected categories.
These legal protections help ensure that individuals with misdemeanors are not denied access to rental housing solely because of their criminal background.
FAQs about Can An Apartment Reject You For Misdemeanors
Can you get an apartment with misdemeanor NC?
It depends on the specific misdemeanor. Typically, traffic violations are not an issue, but DUIs may be an exception. However, if the misdemeanor is related to theft or drugs, most rental properties will automatically reject the application.
Can you rent an apartment with a misdemeanor in Florida?
Usually not, as most landlords and property managers are primarily focused on felony convictions since they are considered to be more severe offenses.
Can you rent an apartment with a misdemeanor in Houston?
It's important to understand the significance of background checks when applying for a Houston apartment. All rental properties mandate background checks, and it's necessary to reveal any felonies or misdemeanors during the application process.
Can an apartment reject you for misdemeanors in Minnesota?
According to the law, landlords cannot deny an applicant solely based on a misdemeanor if the conviction is more than three years old. Similarly, if the conviction is for a felony, the landlord cannot deny an applicant if the conviction is older than seven years.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading! We hope that this article was helpful in teaching you can an apartment reject you for misdemeanors.
Renting an apartment with a misdemeanor conviction can be difficult, but there are steps that applicants can take to increase their chances of being accepted. Applicants should ensure they understand the laws and regulations protecting them from discrimination, as well as research any resources available to help them find housing.
Additionally, having a good rental history and references from previous landlords is essential for those wishing to rent an apartment with a misdemeanor on their record.
