How to Screen Tenants in San Francisco, CA…
Screening prospective renters in San Francisco is simple with RealSerious.com. Provide the applicant’s name and email, and we’ll handle identity verification, obtain their consent, and retrieve an official credit report along with a multi-state criminal background check.
No monthly fees – pay as you go.
San Francisco Tenant Screening You Can Count On
RealSerious.com understands the unique challenges of San Francisco’s dynamic rental market. From luxury apartments in SoMa to classic Victorian homes in Pacific Heights and family residences in the Sunset District, our services empower landlords to make confident and informed rental decisions.
Perfect for San Francisco’s Distinct Communities
San Francisco’s neighborhoods each offer a unique blend of culture, lifestyle, and housing opportunities. RealSerious.com provides customized tenant screening solutions for landlords across the city to match their diverse rental needs.
Featured Neighborhood Areas and Communities:
SoMa (South of Market): Attracts young professionals and tech workers with modern apartments near offices, entertainment venues, and transportation hubs.
Mission District: A vibrant, culturally rich area popular among tenants seeking a lively atmosphere with trendy restaurants and nightlife.
Pacific Heights: Known for its elegant homes and sweeping views, ideal for tenants looking for upscale living in a quieter neighborhood.
Sunset District: A family-friendly area offering more affordable rental options with access to parks, schools, and the beach.
Castro District: Celebrated for its LGBTQ+ community and vibrant social scene, appealing to tenants seeking inclusivity and charm.
Financial District: Perfect for tenants working in the heart of San Francisco’s business and financial sectors.
What’s Included in a San Francisco Tenant Screening?
Our comprehensive service provides landlords with key information to safeguard their properties by improving their chances of selecting tenants who are more likely to honor lease agreements. Reports include the following where available:
• Credit Score & Factors (ResidentScore®)
• Reported Addresses & Employment
• Credit Card & Loan Payments
• Ch 7 & 13 Bankruptcy Remarks
• Returned Check Collection Accts
• Unpaid Utility & Landlord Collections
• Foreclosures & Repossessions
• Multi-State Criminal Records*
• National Sex Offender Registry
• Global Sanctions
See a sample report.
Turnaround Times: Most results are delivered within seconds after identity verification. Some reports may take up to 1–2 days due to common names, potential record matches, or local jurisdiction reporting delays.
*DISCLAIMER: No tenant criminal background check is 100% complete. Coverage for our standard tenant screening report may vary due to (1) jurisdictions limiting what records are eligible to return and (2) TransUnion and/or its partners limiting records that do not meet their data quality standards. Learn more about tenant criminal records.
San Francisco Tenant Screening FAQs
For additional questions, contact us. Please note: We are unable to provide legal advice. For specific questions about California landlord-tenant laws, consult a local attorney or legal expert.
Why is the vetting process essential for landlords in San Francisco?
San Francisco’s competitive rental market features a mix of luxury apartments, historic homes, and shared housing. Proper vetting helps landlords choose residents with a higher likelihood of respecting the terms of the tenancy.
Can San Francisco landlords use criminal background checks?
Yes, but California’s “Fair Chance Act” restricts the use of criminal background checks until after a conditional lease offer is made. For further guidance, visit the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing at https://www.dfeh.ca.gov..
San Francisco Landlord Resources
Here are key resources to assist San Francisco landlords with legal guidance, housing laws, and property management. For statewide resources, visit California tenant screening.
California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
Offers information on fair housing laws, including the proper use of criminal background checks.
San Francisco Superior Court – Self-Help Evictions
https://sf.courts.ca.gov/self-help/evictions
Provides unlawful detainer resources and help for landlords and tenants.
San Francisco Apartment Association (SFAA)
Provides resources, training, and advocacy for landlords and property managers.
San Francisco Department of Building Inspection
https://www.sf.gov/departments/department-building-inspection/inspection-services-dbi
Helps landlords ensure their properties meet local housing and safety codes.
California Bar Association – Lawyer Referral Service
https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Public/Need-Legal-Help
Helps landlords locate attorneys specializing in landlord-tenant law.