If you have a criminal record, it can impact your ability to secure safe housing. But it’s not impossible to do. You just have to know the right approach and take specific steps to put yourself in a position to find the right place.
Tips for Finding Housing
Housing is a controversial topic in many circles. Unfortunately, it’s become politicized over the past couple of decades – which leaves millions of people on the outside looking in.
“Just because you have a criminal record, doesn’t mean you’re a bad person and you don’t deserve to have the same right to safe housing as anyone else,” SBBL Law notes. “Unfortunately, the way some of the laws and regulations in this country are set up, it can be challenging to get the same access without the intervention of a skilled lawyer.”
With that being said, here are some actionable steps you can take to improve your chances of securing housing, even with a criminal record.
1. Be Honest and Upfront on Rental Applications
When applying for rental properties, it can be tempting to hide your criminal record in the hopes that it won’t be discovered. However, most landlords will run a background check, and if they find out you were dishonest, it will likely result in an automatic denial. Instead, it's crucial to be honest and upfront about your history.
Use the space provided in the rental application or when speaking to the landlord to explain your criminal record. Take responsibility for your actions and highlight the steps you’ve taken to move forward since the conviction. Whether it's attending counseling, completing a rehabilitation program, or finding steady employment, showcasing your growth and accountability can help shift the focus from your past to your future.
Remember, landlords are often more concerned about their safety and the reliability of tenants, so showing that you’re responsible and trustworthy now can work in your favor.
2. Secure Letters of Recommendation
If you have a criminal record, securing letters of recommendation from credible sources can be a powerful tool in your favor. Ask previous landlords, employers, counselors, or other respected individuals in your life to write a letter on your behalf. These letters should vouch for your character, work ethic, and commitment to positive change.
When approaching landlords with a criminal record, a strong recommendation from a previous landlord who can verify that you were a good tenant may put their concerns at ease. Likewise, letters from employers or community leaders can emphasize your reliability and responsibility, which could help sway the decision in your favor.
Presenting these letters along with your rental application shows that you’ve built a solid support system and that others are willing to vouch for your character.
3. Search for Criminal Record-Friendly Housing
Not all landlords or property managers treat a criminal record the same way. Some may automatically reject an applicant with any kind of record, while others are more open to renting to people who have a history but are looking to turn their lives around. Knowing where to apply can save you a lot of frustration and time.
Some housing agencies or private landlords specifically offer criminal record-friendly housing programs. Look for local housing organizations that assist people with past convictions in finding safe and affordable housing. They can guide you to landlords who are more flexible about applicants with a record.
Additionally, smaller landlords (as opposed to large property management companies) might be more willing to work with you if you approach them directly. Building a personal rapport with a smaller landlord can make a difference, especially if you’re transparent and respectful from the start.
4. Build and Improve Your Credit Score
If you’re planning to buy a home or even rent in certain places, your credit score plays a crucial role in the application process. Landlords and mortgage lenders will often look at your credit history to assess your reliability when it comes to paying rent or a mortgage. If your credit score is low, improving it can go a long way toward increasing your chances of approval.
Start by reviewing your credit report and identifying any errors or areas that need improvement. Pay down existing debts, make payments on time, and avoid opening new credit accounts unnecessarily. The better your credit score, the more likely you will be viewed as a responsible tenant or borrower, even with a criminal record.
For buying a home, it’s also important that you maintain stable employment and demonstrate consistent income. This can help offset the concerns lenders might have regarding your past and increase your chances of securing a mortgage.
5. Understand How a Criminal Record Affects Mortgage Applications
If you’re planning to buy a home, it’s important to understand how a criminal record impacts mortgage applications. While lenders are mainly concerned with your financial situation, some criminal convictions may still affect your ability to secure a loan.
Certain convictions, such as those involving fraud or financial crimes, might make lenders hesitant to approve a mortgage. However, just as with renting, being transparent and taking proactive steps to improve your financial standing can make a difference. Having a stable job, a good credit score, and letters of recommendation from employers can help alleviate concerns.
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6. Know Your Rights
When searching for housing, it’s important to know your rights. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, religion, and other protected categories, but criminal record discrimination is still allowed in many cases. However, some states and cities have laws in place that restrict landlords from automatically denying housing based on a criminal record.
For example, in some areas, landlords can’t reject an applicant for an arrest that didn’t lead to a conviction. Other places may have specific guidelines on how far back landlords can look at your record. Be sure to research the local laws where you’re applying to see what protections exist.
Putting it All Together
Housing should be a basic human right in the 21st century. Unfortunately, having a criminal conviction on your record can make it more challenging to secure safe and affordable housing. But if you follow some of the tips outlined above, you can give yourself a better chance to do just that.
