This section reviews some of the standards owners and operators apply in determining who is acceptable as a resident in their apartment communities. It also explores resources available to owners and operators to assist them in making their residency decisions. Owners and operators must abide by various laws in the selection process, including the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which mandate that all applicants be treated the same.

As this section demonstrates, the use of consumer reports to help determine the financial risk level of a potential resident is highly regulated but if an owner or operator complies with the law, such reports can be useful tools. Owners and operators also can use employment and rental references and criminal background checks to assist them in their resident selection process.