Two applicants one has a eviction

[John Kilhafner]

So this is my first application that has had a eviction on their record, its a couple that are applying together for a house.  One had an eviction on their record 5 years ago and the other has nothing bad on their report.  Trying to get some opinions on what to do in this situation, the applicant that has nothing on their record is the primary earner in the relationship.  Already reached out to their previous landlord and waiting to hear back about their payment history.  

[Dennis McNeely]

If one tenant had been evicted recently, I'd probably decline the application. My experience mirrors the saying "one bad apple spoils the bunch". In other words, the evicted tenant's bad attitude (and actions) begin to poison the other tenant, and an eviction notice is the end result. Hopefully, if that situation arises, the notice results in attitude correction and the lease can continue uninterrupted.

Having said that, if the eviction is 5 years ago, I'd probably accept the couple - but let them know I'll be keeping them on a short leash.

Best of luck!