With nearly 70 million Americans with criminal records, it’s become increasingly common to experience all of the challenges that are associated with a criminal record, especially when it comes to finding an apartment. Even if your past discretions happened when you were a juvenile, many landlords might still be wary of renting to someone with a criminal history, fearing that they may be liable for any damages or problems in the apartment.
That’s why it’s important to intervene early, especially with rebellious teens, so they don’t complicate their future with a criminal record and need for a juvenile defense attorney. It’s also important to understand your rights and the actions you can take before you start your search.
If you’re looking for felony-friendly apartments, here are a few tips.
Know the Rules
In some states, it’s against the law for a landlord to deny housing to someone with a criminal record. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, denying housing to someone with a criminal history may be discriminatory. However, you will still need to disclose your criminal history when asked by the landlord.
Be Honest
No matter what, it’s essential to be honest about your criminal history. Most landlords will do a criminal background check, so it’s better to be upfront and let them know what they can expect. For example, if you have any prior offenses, or are facing a DUI or any drug-related convictions, it is best to disclose that information to your potential landlord before they find out on their own.
Additionally, when you meet with a potential landlord, be prepared to answer questions about your criminal history. Be honest and upfront about your convictions and what led to them. You should also be ready to explain how you’ve changed since then and why you would be a good tenant.
If you’re honest and upfront about your criminal history, it will show the landlord that you’re willing to be open and transparent about your past. It may also give them a better understanding of your character and help them decide whether or not to rent to you. However, there are a few other items a landlord may ask about your criminal record and overall history on a rental application, including:
- Employment history — This is to verify your income and ability to pay rent. If you are still in the process of job hunting, you may need to ace a job interview beforehand to qualify for a rental application.
- Credit history — This will show the landlord if you have a history of making late payments or not paying at all.
- Eviction history — If you’ve been evicted in the past, this will likely be a deal-breaker for most landlords.
- Rental references — These are people who can vouch for your rental history and behavior as a tenant.
- Rental history — This is a list of places you’ve previously rented, how long you stayed, and if you had any problems with the landlord.
- Criminal convictions — The landlord will likely want to know what your conviction was for and how long ago it occurred.
- Social security number — The landlord may use this to do a background check.
- Proof of citizenship — The landlord may require this if they receive government funding for the property.
- Driver’s license — The landlord may want to see this to verify your identity.
- Income — The landlord will likely want to know how much money you make to ensure you can afford the rent.
The more information you can give your potential landlord, the better. They will appreciate your honesty, and it may help them feel more comfortable renting to you. Some landlords may be more understanding than others, but ultimately it is their decision whether or not to rent to you.
Offer To Pay Upfront
One way to alleviate any concerns a landlord may have about renting to someone with a criminal background is to offer to pay several months’ rent upfront. This will show the landlord that you are serious about wanting the apartment, and you have the financial stability from a reliable job to cover rent for an extended amount of time.
A few ways to show proof of stable or increased income are to provide W-2 forms from the past year, recent pay stubs, or bank statements. If you are self-employed, you can provide tax returns or 1099 forms. You may also want to get a cosigner for the lease agreement if you don’t have enough income to cover the rent on your own.
Get Housing Assistance
If you are still having trouble finding an apartment, government programs can help. The Housing and Urban Development website has a list of resources for people with criminal histories, including information on fair housing laws and how to file a complaint.
Many private organizations offer housing assistance for people with criminal histories. The National Reentry Resource Center has a list of programs that can help you find housing and other services, such as job training and mental health counseling.
Other programs that may be able to help you find housing include:
If you’re in a tight turnaround at your current residence, apply as soon as possible to either of these programs since most involve a lengthy waiting period. Most programs will give priority to candidates who are homeless, able to pay rent upfront, or were involuntary misplaced from their previous residence.
Be Patient
Finding an apartment with a criminal background can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. It may take some time and effort, but eventually, you will find a place to call home. So, be persistent and don’t give up hope.
As you wait, consider working on your checklist of things to do before renting an apartment. This will help you be prepared when the right opportunity comes along.
Your apartment hunting checklist should include:
- Work on getting a cosigner for the lease agreement in case you don’t have enough income to cover the rent on your own;
- Save up money to offer to pay several months’ rent upfront;
- Get housing assistance from government grants and programs or private organizations.
The journey may be a long one, but there are landlords out there who are willing to give people with criminal histories a chance.
Housing Options for Individuals With Criminal Records
When applying for different housing options, you may have grandiose or substandard expectations of your next apartment because of your criminal record. Whatever expectations you have, it’s best to keep an open mind for your next residence by researching the various types of housing that may be open to you.
Short Term Housing
Sometimes permanent residence can be hard to come by, especially if you have a criminal background, but luckily there are several short-term housing options available that can provide a safe space while you search. These include:
- Staying with friends and family: If you have a relative or friend who is willing to let you stay with them for some time, this can be a great option. However, make sure to set clear boundaries and expectations upfront to avoid any issues down the road.
- Subleasing: This is when you take over someone else’s lease for a short time. This can be a great option if you need a place to stay for a few months and are willing to pay the rent.
- Halfway houses: These are residences that provide housing and support services for people transitioning from incarceration or treatment facilities.
- Motels or hotels: If you are willing to spend a bit more money, staying in a motel or hotel can be a comfortable option. Make sure to do your research to find a reputable establishment ahead of time.
Each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, so it is important to weigh your options and choose the best one for you.
Long Term Housing
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, several long-term housing options are available for individuals with criminal records. These include:
- Residential reentry centers: These facilities provide housing and support services to help people transition from incarceration back into the community.
- Private Landlords: While it may be challenging to find a private landlord willing to rent to someone with a criminal record, it is not impossible. You may have to search harder and be willing to pay a higher security deposit, but it is possible to find a place.
- Affordable Housing: Many affordable housing options are available for low-income individuals and families. To qualify, you will likely need to provide proof of income and go through an application process.
Each of these long-term housing options comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to evaluate your needs and choose the best option for you and your future needs.
Are Background Checks Required for Renting an Apartment?
In most cases, landlords are not required to conduct background checks on potential tenants. However, it is becoming increasingly common for landlords to run background checks as part of their screening process.
If a landlord does require a background check, they should let you know upfront. They should also allow you to explain your criminal history and why you would be a good tenant. Be sure to ask the landlord exactly what they will need from you before providing any information.
However, if the landlord isn’t open to extending a lease to you, you can also provide documentation that shows you have made positive changes in your life since your criminal history occurred. This documentation can include:
- Employment records;
- Character references;
- Certifications or proof of completion for rehabilitation programs.
Ultimately, adjusting to life after jail or prison can be difficult, but it is important to remember that some resources and people can help you through this time. With a little effort, you will find a place to call home.