Is it illegal for an apt for request a full bank statement as part of the application process?

Question

I'm moving into a new apartment, and the landlord requested a statement from the bank showing my accounts were in good standing. I had a bank associate look at my accounts and type up a letter stating exactly that.. and then I gave it to the landlord. Well then the landlord said it wasn't good enough, and that I needed to give her an entire months bank statement, that shows every single one of my transactions and has my COMPLETE account number printed on it. Yes, she stressed it had to be the complete account number., and that if it had only the last 4 numbers, it wouldn't be suffice.

I talked to two different people at the bank about the bogus-ness of this request and neither had ever heard of an apt application ever requiring this... and likely, they both strongly suggested against doing it.

I am moving out of state, maybe it's normal other places?

Isn't that like personal... ? Can she ask for that? Privacy Policy?

Answer 1

It shouldn't be a problem. The application process includes a credit check which will have your account numbers listed. Many states require one, two or even three months bank statements - and if you're self-employed - copies of previous year tax returns (and up to six months of bank statements) in their application process.



It is NOT illegal nor uncommon.



If you do not trust the management of the complex you are dealing with - don't move there!

Answer 2

Full Bank Statement

Answer 3

VERY SUSPICIOUS!



I would NEVER give out that information. And if the landlord insisted, I would certainly not rent from her.



In the alternative, I would generate a fictitious bank statement with whatever information seemed appropriate (leaving out any real identifying information of course). I might also inform my banker of my actions and ask him to be alert to the fact that possibly an unauthorised person might attempt to access the fictitious account.



If the banker detected an attempt at accessing the fictitious account, then I would take further steps with law enforcement and have them begin an investigation into the matter. Possibly the landlord would be charged for fraud.



And for a landlord to ask for such extensive information is definitely NOT normal.

Answer 4

He has no right to get a copy of your statement, he needs to be reported. You never give a copy of your statement to anyone. A letter from your bank should have been enough. I have never in my life ever heard of such a thing, the Landlord if wrong. She can ask, but you do not have to give up your personal info like that.

Answer 5

That doesnt sound right at all! Why does she need your account number (even though it would be on the checks you pay your rent with)? I would feel uncomfortable with my future landlord seeing where I shop & how much I spend. I would call a real estate company in that area who deals with rental property and ask them if this is normal for a landlord to request this kind of documentation for that area. It might be something that they do in the area due to problems with previous tenants. Either way.... I would feel very odd about giving them that much info.

Answer 6

It doesn't sound right to me. I suggest contacting the Fair Housing Board of the state where you are planning to move. I would never give all the info that landlord requested. ALL that info is not their business.

Answer 7

I have never hear of anyone asking for that, I lived in 3 different states in the past 10 years and have never came across that. I wouldn't give it to her, I would tell her she can do a credit check on you, and that is enough. I have a problem giving out my SS# even now a days, if they ask for it on a job app, I put in that I will give it if hired.

Answer 8

I've never heard of this either. It just sounds like the manager does not know what she is doing. It is illegal for her to have your bank statement. Look for another apartment!

Answer 9

That's an inappropriate request; there is no need for you to provide that much personal information. I'd suggest finding a different apartment - even if you fight this aspect and win, I expect there would be future problems with this landlord.

Answer 10

Sounds to me like she's covering herself if you bail on the lease...ie attach your bank account for failure to pay rent. Perfectly legal....if you are uncomfortable with it...apply to a different place.