Applicant wants copy of background checks.....

[Mitch B.]

I've got an applicant that has decided not to rent my SFH but would like a copy of the background outputs from Mysmartmove that he paid for as part of the application process.

Is it legal for me to send a copy back to the applicant?

If so, should I email it or print it out & send it via postal mail? My concern with email is that I don't want to be liable for such a potentially unsecured mode of delivery given the sensitivity of a credit report.

Thanks,

Mitch

[Steve Babiak]

NO!  Your agreement with the screening service will stipulate that you are not permitted to distribute copies of the reports to anybody. 

You should send them an adverse action / rejection letter (that is approved by your screening service) that explains their rights to request copies of reports directly from the screening service due to the adverse action. 

But do not send the reports. Your screening service may allow you to discuss the contents of the reports, but you cannot give copies.