Background Check Dispute - Eviction & Identity Stolen - Grand Rapids, Michigan

[Mac Boeve]

I recently had an applicant who supposedly had their identity stolen. They had a low credit score but beyond that, they were a solid applicant based on their application and references. I ran a background check through RentPrep and it showed an eviction from a property that was not listed on their application. The applicant claims they were never evicted. However, during that time period, they were supposedly renting from a family member, so I don't fully trust that.

So, most likely the applicant was being dishonest. But it does make me wonder...  

How does one verify that an applicant has had their identity stolen? Assuming it was still in process.

How do property managers handle applicants that legitimately had their identity stolen?

If an applicant had a dispute with their Eviction Screening Report, how should the property manager handle this? Should I deny the applicant, but state that they can reapply once they have resolved the discrepancy? 

I'd lean toward trusting the Eviction Screening Report, but how often (if ever) are these incorrect? Could this possibly be caused by an identity theft?

Thanks!