When you apply to rent a house or apartment, most landlords or brokers will make sure your credit history suggests you’ll make your rent payments consistently. You should also be prepared for your landlord or broker to charge you for the cost of the credit check, which can be as much as $50.

If you are rejected because of a poor credit report, you have the legal right to know which credit bureau provided the damaging information to the landlord or broker who rejected you. That credit bureau is required to give you a free copy of the report in question, but it’s up to you to figure out where the problems are and fix them before you apply again.

Many brokers and landlords won’t let young or first-time renters sign a lease alone regardless of how good your credit history may be. In these cases you need a guarantor, or cosigner, who agrees to pay your rent if you default, or fail to pay. If you think you might need a cosigner, contact prospective brokers or landlords to find out whether they’ll require a guarantor and who will qualify before you start applying for specific properties.

Get your history straight Your credit history plays a big part in renting a home. Click here to learn more!