Tenant Screening in Columbia, MO…
Finding the right tenant in Columbia doesn’t have to be difficult. With RealSerious.com, simply provide the applicant’s name and email to obtain consent for an official credit report and a multi-state criminal background check.
No monthly fees – pay per use.
Quick and Easy
RealSerious.com understands the variety of housing needs in Columbia, from student apartments near the University of Missouri to single-family homes in suburban neighborhoods. Our tenant screening services give landlords the tools needed to make informed, data-driven rental decisions.
Finding the Right Residents
With a vibrant mix of downtown living, suburban communities, and university housing, our tenant background checks are built to support property owners across the city:
Across Columbia
Downtown: Popular with students, professionals, and those who enjoy an active nightlife and entertainment scene.
East Campus: A highly sought-after neighborhood close to the University of Missouri, appealing to students and faculty.
Old Hawthorne: A prestigious area featuring newer developments and golf course living, ideal for executive renters.
Rock Bridge: Suburban community with parks and schools, popular among families and long-term renters.
West Columbia: Offers more affordable rental options with a suburban feel, close to shopping and amenities.
The Village of Cherry Hill: Known for walkable shops, dining, and family-friendly townhomes and apartments.
In-depth Applicant Information
Each screening report provides in-depth applicant information to help reduce risks and protect your property. Reports typically 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
View a sample report.
Turnaround Time: Most screenings are completed within seconds after applicant verification. In some cases, delays may occur due to common name matches or jurisdictional reporting timelines.
*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.
Columbia, MO Landlord FAQs
If you have additional questions, contact us. However, we cannot provide legal advice. For specific inquiries about Missouri landlord-tenant laws, consult a local attorney or legal resource.
Are application fees regulated in Columbia?
There is no state cap on application fees in Missouri. However, Columbia landlords should charge fees that reasonably reflect the actual cost of processing a tenant background check.
Can Columbia landlords review criminal backgrounds?
Yes. Landlords in Columbia can review a prospective tenant’s criminal conviction history. It’s important to avoid discriminatory practices and ensure decisions are based on the severity and recency of offenses, in compliance with federal Fair Housing laws.
Columbia Landlord Resources
For statewide information, visit the Missouri tenant screening page.
Boone County Circuit Court – Civil Division
705 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201
https://www.courts.mo.gov/hosted/circuit13/courtoffices/CivilClerks/bnecivil.htm
Handles eviction filings, small claims, and civil court matters for landlords.
Office of Neighborhood Services
Phone: 573-817-5050
https://www.como.gov/neighborhood-services/