Guide

Rental Collections vs Other Collections

Rental collections and other collections can raise different screening questions. Find out who holds the account, what’s owed and where it stands. We keep track of how communities treat each kind of account, so you don’t have to call around.

Renter sorting through different collection statements

What we see in our searches

If your broken lease is in collections, we start by sorting communities in your city into three groups. Some score rental collections separately from other debt. Some go easy on paid or settled rental collections. And others stay strict no matter how the account ended. Those groups shape your shortlist.

Want to know where your collection fits? Ask us. We call Texas communities, ask how they treat rental and other collections and keep track of the answers. That’s how we build your list.

Figure out what kind of account it is

On an apartment application, a rental collection often gets looked at differently than other debt. Many communities have their own rule for rental debt, separate from medical, utility or credit card accounts.

Check the original account, who holds it now, the balance and the status. An entry listed as the wrong kind of debt, or tied to someone else, can make your situation look worse than it is.

What the decision can come down to

A screening report may give the community information, a score or a recommendation. The community still makes the call using its own rules. Here’s what we ask each community:

  • Whether the type of debt, the balance or the account status is the issue.
  • Whether the policy treats paid and settled accounts differently.
  • Whether the community looks at paperwork you send.
  • Other requirements that have nothing to do with the collection.

Fixing an error doesn’t promise approval

Were you denied? Get your report from the screening company named in the denial notice. If something on it is wrong, dispute it with that company and keep copies of your proof. A fix doesn’t mean the rest of your application meets the rules, or that a unit will still be open.

Tell us the details when you start

Let us know about the rental collection and anything else that might come up in screening. We look for communities that fit your situation. We don’t treat every collection the same, and we don’t assume a guarantor company will get you past one.

Sources and further help

The community makes the final call, based on its current screening rules and what your application shows.

Want help with your own search?

We look for Texas communities that fit your situation.

Plan your next step

Read our renter resources, estimate move in costs, or start your free apartment search.