As per the comments directed i would like to further on some of the concerns drafted.
There are no credit bureaus or foreign bodies that allow access to bad tenant reporting. Thats right, NONE. As I stated to a perspective client today, there are a number of companies that allow access to run bureaus called CREDIT RE-SELLERS. TVS, RentChek are simply that. Now they may have a place where you can update your information about tenants but frankly your WASTING YOUR TIME. Why? Well simply if other people arent a member of the above-noted who is actually going to see what your listing, NOONE. Throw in the fact that their are many different companies that actually provide the RE-SELLING aspect throughout Canada, they all arent inter-linked, so if a person deals with RentChek and you deal with TVS how is that information going to be shared, it isnt and it will never be. The only way to report bad tenants is on the credit bureaus, no membership to that, well than most collections agencies can help you.
Remember this, credit is one step in screening a client and no matter what there is going to be cost involved. The credit bureau houses SOME information and not all and I ask you to re-read above, simply if you are not a member you cant list. Equifax and TransUnion make it absolutely difficult for smaller owners to become members because they "dont want you". They would much more deal with heavy volume listing companies, and smaller companies arent that.
So listing debts on TVS means little or nothing if anything its not worth your time. Find localized companies that can maintain a database for the reason your dealing in a centralized market. What the person was asking is, is their a forum where landlords can input information and I can "go in" and grab it from other listers, the answer no there isnt. The reason for those who might want to know is that it creats a possible libel suit in the end.
So advice, use whom you want and rely on many factors including credit to make your decisions. Most will say that "gut feelings" work, well with the combination of gut feelings, credit background etc. you have screened properly. Remember in the end you have to feel comfortable with prior to putting them into your property.
We at C.I.C. thank REIN for making us an industry partner for the purposes of credit screening, collections, etc. and this is my expertise and I speak from experience.
You dont have to screen everyone, if someone rubs you the wrong way, why would you want them in your property.
Chris Bradnam
Owner
Credit Info Canada
(780) 486-1183