How to Screen Tenants in Tampa, FL…
Screening new tenants in Tampa is hassle-free with RealSerious.com. Provide the applicant’s name and email, and we’ll verify their identity to generate an official credit report along with a multi-state criminal background check.
No monthly fees – pay as you go.
Tampa Tenant Screening for Bay Area Landlords
We have over 20 years of experience with Tampa’s rental market which features luxury high-rises in Downtown to family homes in Carrollwood and trendy apartments in Seminole Heights. Our services give Tampa landlords the tools needed to make confident, well-informed leasing decisions.
Screening Across the Bay Area
Tampa offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit diverse tenant needs, and RealSerious.com provides tenant screening services for landlords across the region. Whether you’re managing rentals near the waterfront or in the suburbs, we’re here to help.
Highlighted Communities
Downtown: Ideal for tenants seeking modern living with proximity to business hubs, dining, and entertainment.
Seminole Heights: Known for its historic charm and appeal to young professionals and creatives.
Carrollwood: A family-friendly area with spacious homes and strong demand for long-term rentals.
South Tampa: Features upscale properties near Bayshore Boulevard, attracting renters who value luxury and convenience.
Westshore: Popular among business professionals, offering easy access to Tampa International Airport and corporate offices.
Riverview: Located just outside the city, appealing to tenants looking for suburban amenities with proximity to Tampa.
What’s Included in a Standard Screening?
We provide vital applicant details, from consumer credit files to criminal history, to help you select tenants who are more likely to fulfill the terms of their tenancy responsibly. When available, reports often include:
• 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 reports are delivered within seconds after the applicant’s identity is verified. However, some may take up to 1–2 days due to factors like common names, potential record matches, or local jurisdiction 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.
Tampa Tenant Screening FAQs
For additional questions, contact us. Please note: We are unable to provide legal advice. For Florida-specific landlord-tenant law inquiries, consult a local attorney or legal expert.
Can rental application fees be charged in Florida?
Yes, Tampa landlords can charge rental application fees. While Florida law does not set a cap, it’s a good idea to remain competitive and reasonable.
Can Bay area landlords consider criminal convictions?
Yes, Tampa landlords can include criminal background checks as part of their screening process. It’s crucial to comply with the Fair Housing Act and avoid discriminatory practices. For more guidance, visit the Florida Commission on Human Relations at https://fchr.myflorida.com/.
Tampa Landlord Resources
Below are helpful links for Tampa landlords, including legal assistance, eviction processes, and more. For statewide resources, visit Florida tenant screening.
Florida Bar Association – Find a Lawyer
https://www.floridabar.org/directories/find-mbr/
Search for local attorneys practicing landlord-tenant law.
Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts
Provides official resources for filing evictions, and other rental property matters.
Greater Tampa REALTORS®
Various tools for real estate professionals and property managers.
City of Tampa Code Enforcement
Phone: 813-274-5545
https://www.tampa.gov/code-enforcement
Ensures properties comply with local housing and safety codes.