Can't trust Zillow screening?

Question

I just saw a post on here that said Zillow is not accurate about credit scores, tenant evictions, and criminal history.  Is this still true?  IF so, who do you guys use to do a through screening for potential tenants?

Carlos Hennings · Answer

Sorry so late but this may help in the future.

You’re correct — many of the “free” or bundled screening tools used by listing sites tend to give limited data or outdated results. Screening is your first line of defense against rental risk, so it’s worth using a provider that goes beyond the basics.

When comparing options, focus on three things:

• Depth of data. Many low-cost reports skip key searches like Judgments and Liens, which no longer appear on credit reports but still reveal serious financial risk.
• Verification quality. Don’t just “check a box” with automated results. Look for reports that are manually reviewed for accuracy and cross-checked across multiple data sources.
• Balance of price and protection. The cheaper the report, the cheaper the results — and one missed eviction or false criminal record can cost thousands later.

Depth of data. Many low-cost reports skip key searches like Judgments and Liens, which no longer appear on credit reports but still reveal serious financial risk.

Verification quality. Don’t just “check a box” with automated results. Look for reports that are manually reviewed for accuracy and cross-checked across multiple data sources.

Balance of price and protection. The cheaper the report, the cheaper the results — and one missed eviction or false criminal record can cost thousands later.

For best results, use a screening company that includes nationwide criminal and eviction data, credit reporting (with FICO scoring), and civil court records like Judgments and Liens. You can even request this data directly from applicants if your current tool doesn’t provide it.

Thorough screening isn’t about price — it’s about protecting your investment and reducing future headaches.

Rod Hanks · Answer

I use Transunion SmartMove and National Tenant Network