Renting and apartment with criminal background?

Question

My husband has a criminal background. He was charged with marijuana possesion (no convictions, just charges) 4 years ago, now no one will allow him to rent an apartment because they all do criminal background checks. When he tells them upfront about it, they say that most likely his application will be rejected. The problem is that if we rent only in my name, I don't really make enough to qualify alone. The apartment we're in now is too small and we were only able to get it because they accept people based on their credit, not their income. This is like the only place in Chicago that doesn't have an income requirement. Plus a lot of buildings, like the one we're in now have those "do not copy keys", so we are stuck with 1 key between the two of us. What can we do?

I have actually seen his "wrap sheet" and it says "0 convictions" but it does list the charges. Also, he's talked to lawyers about it and they tell him that he can't have the records/charges sealed until 2009.

Answer 1

I'm surprised that it would be an issue if the charges were dismissed. I believe it would be illegal to discriminate on that basis if he were not convicted.

If you apply somewhere and they tell you that you can't rent because of what they found on the background check make sure to get a copy of that background check as I believe they need to supply it to you. Perhaps he has a similar name to someone convicted of a felony charge or could there be something in his background you don't know about?

Alternatively, you could look at renting from a private landlord with whom you can discuss anything that comes up in a check.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Is it possible to look for ads from private landlords rather than
one in the main part of the city? Maybe someone who owns a
duplex or small apt. would not run a background check. But
any management company would of course. Try looking for
places that aren't managed by real estate companies or
management companies. Try those owned by individuals
instead.
Why aren't there larger apts for rent where you live? Or all
they all the same? Chances are you can also locate something that is an older complex. Maybe it won't have the
dishwasher you want, or the patio, but there has to be some
give and take, til he gets his record clean.
I also would not suggest his telling about his conviction or
being accused of the above you mentioned. In otherwords,
don't volunteer.
I can't imagine his charges not putting him in jail until a trial,
by either jury or judge. And if so, he would be paying out
monthly for his probation/fine for his charges. I never have
heard of anyone being free after being charged with a crime.
Even a plea bargain is necessary to gain ones' freedom. And
then they start wanting the money as soon as you get home.
It's all about the money after all. There's no justice in the
justice system anymore. Everyone is corrupt. Even judges.
It's a shame, but reality sets in when one has a brush with
the law and you soon find out what and what isn't fair with
today's judicial systems.

Answer 3

I am assuming you have advocated for yourself and pointed out vigilantly that he has never been convicted of a crime, so it is prejuduced to deny him on charges--a few years ago my best friend was being beaten by her hubby...so she finally faught back. When the cops showed up he was bleeding from where she scratched him on the face. In Michigan the person who has caused a visible injury goes to jail, well her bruises were not showing. She was charged with domestic violence and spent the night in jail. The next morning at her arrainment the charges were dropped because she now had black eyes and bruises. She has to tell the whole sorted tale everytime she moves to a new apartment because it shows up on her background check, but she always gets the place.

Have you tried to get someone else like a good close friend...or your parents to sign the lease with you. This way you get around the income thing...you will get two keys...and they won't wonder why there are two people living in the apartment.

I am not advocating this for everyone. I live in an apartment with my kids and I am sick thinking that someone will use this to get around their violent background, but it sounds like you just need a break.

Answer 4

Criminal Records Search Database : http://www.SearchVerifyInfo.com/Info

Answer 5

The landlord should give you two keys since it is two people unless you are trying to sneak him in.
If he wasn't guilty when charged he should insist on a speedy trial so he can be cleared of the charges.

Answer 6

i have three misderminors trespassing, stalking, phone damage line will that stop me from getting and apartmemt.if i do not tell them will it show, or should i not tell them and hope thet don: t find out.