Many landlords require credit checks. Learn what score you need and how to improve your rental chances.
Minimum Score Needed: 580
Ideal Score: 670
Overview
Landlords use credit scores to assess risk. A low score can mean apartment rejection, higher security deposits, or the need for a cosigner. Improving your credit opens up more housing options and better terms.
Credit Requirements
What Landlords Look For
Credit score (varies by landlord)
Rental history
Income verification (usually 3x rent)
Employment stability
Eviction history
Score Ranges
Below 580: Often requires cosigner or higher deposit
580-619: May qualify with conditions
620-669: Good chances at most apartments
670+: Should qualify without issues
Red Flags for Landlords
Previous evictions
Unpaid rent collections
Recent bankruptcies
High debt-to-income ratio
How to Prepare — Step by Step
Check Your Reports (30 days before searching): Review all three credit reports for rental-related issues like evictions or utility collections.
Address Collections (2-4 weeks before): Pay or dispute any utility or rent-related collections first - these are red flags for landlords.
Prepare Documentation (1-2 weeks before): Gather pay stubs, bank statements, and references to show financial stability.
Write an Explanation (Before applying): Prepare a brief letter explaining any credit issues and what you've done to improve.
Offer Higher Deposit (During application): Be prepared to offer additional deposit or prepaid rent to offset credit concerns.
What Your Score Unlocks
Below 580: May need cosigner; Higher security deposits; Limited options
580-619: Can qualify with explanation; May need extra deposit; More options available
620-669: Good approval chances; Standard deposits; Most apartments available
670+: Easy approval; Standard or lower deposits; All apartments available
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not checking credit before apartment hunting
Ignoring utility and rent collections
Applying to many apartments (multiple hard inquiries)
Not having documentation ready
Hiding credit issues instead of explaining them
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent with bad credit?
Yes, many landlords work with lower credit scores. Offer higher deposit, show income stability, or get a cosigner.
Do all landlords check credit?
Most do, but individual landlords may be more flexible than large property management companies.
How can I explain bad credit to a landlord?
Be honest, explain circumstances, show what you've improved, and demonstrate current financial stability through income and savings.
Consumers are protected by several federal laws when dealing with credit reporting issues related to apartment rental:
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) — 15 U.S.C. §1681: Requires credit bureaus to maintain accurate information and investigate disputes within 30 days. Consumers can dispute inaccurate items directly with bureaus or furnishers.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) — 15 U.S.C. §1692: Prohibits abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices. Collectors must validate debts upon request.
Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) — 15 U.S.C. §1679: Regulates credit repair companies and protects consumers from deceptive practices.
Attorney-backed by Hemminger Law Firm, Consumer Rights Attorneys
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Reviewed by Hemminger Law Firm, Consumer Rights Attorneys | Last reviewed: January 1, 2026
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