Protective StandardHow it works
Fill out the application
Tell us about yourself, where you've lived, and where you work. Every adult (18+) who will live in the home submits their own application.
Pay the screening fee
Pay the non-refundable fee by card. It covers your credit, criminal, eviction, rental and employment checks.
Hear back from us
Most applications are reviewed within 2–3 business days. We'll reach out by email or phone with a decision.
What you'll need
- Social Security number and date of birth
- Driver's license or state ID number
- Your addresses for the last 2 years
- Landlord names and phone numbers
- Employer name, supervisor and phone
- Monthly income (before taxes)
- Pet and vehicle details, if any
- A debit or credit card for the fee
Questions
Is my information secure?
Yes. Your Social Security number, date of birth and license number are encrypted in your browser before they leave your device, and only our screening staff can unlock them. We use them only to run your background screening.
Who runs the background check?
Screening is done through The Cromwell Group, Inc., a consumer reporting agency in Birmingham, Alabama. It includes a TransUnion credit report, Alabama criminal and eviction records, an address history trace, and verification of your rental history and employment.
Is the application fee refundable?
No. The fee pays for third-party screening that starts as soon as we receive your application, so it can't be refunded once you've submitted.
Do co-applicants need their own application?
Yes. Every adult 18 or older who will live in the home needs to submit their own application and pay their own fee.
What if I'm denied?
If we turn down your application or change its terms based on your screening report, we'll send you an adverse action notice. It names the screening agency and explains your right to a free copy of your report and to dispute anything in it.
Contact us
Questions about a home or your application? Call or email us.