Florida HB 43 (2025): Reusable Tenant Screening Reports – A Win for Renters?
As Florida’s rental market grows, House Bill 43 (HB 43) seeks to make tenant applications cheaper and easier.
This bill, introduced for the 2025 legislative session, focuses on reusable tenant screening reports. This change could greatly affect renters and landlords in the state.
What is HB 43
HB 43 aims to make the rental application process easier. It lets tenants use one screening report for many rental applications. This way, they do not have to pay separate fees for each property they apply to.
The potential tenant can reuse report for up to 30 days from original pull of credit report, should the landlord opt in.
You can still request contact information, proof of income (pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and meet 3x monthly rent criteria), employment history, contact previous landlords for references, etc.
You are not allowed too pull credit score again for the prospective tenants, and not able to charge a application fee.
Key Provisions of HB 43:
1. Landlords Can Accept Reusable Screening Reports
While not mandatory, landlords may accept reports provided by applicants, reducing redundant application processes.
2. Mandatory Statement from Applicants
If a tenant submits a reusable report, they must include a written statement. This statement should confirm that the report remains accurate and unchanged.
3. Standardized Information Requirements
The bill outlines specific details that lawmakers must include in a reusable screening report to ensure consistency and reliability.
4. No Additional Fees for Reusable Reports
Landlords cannot charge an extra fee for processing an application if the tenant submits a compliant reusable screening report.
Why Does This Matter?
Benefits for Renters:
- Cost Savings: Tenants often apply to multiple properties, paying screening fees ranging from $30 to $100 per application. Florida HB 43 helps eliminate these repetitive costs.
- Faster Approvals: Since tenants won’t need to wait for multiple background checks, leasing decisions could be made more quickly.
- More Housing Opportunities: Lower application fees mean renters can apply to more properties, increasing their chances of securing housing.
Impact on Landlords:
- Potential Screening Risks:Some landlords may worry that tenants could provide outdated or altered reusable reports.
- Administrative Adjustments: Property managers may need to update leasing policies to handle tenant-submitted reports efficiently.
- Reduced Income from Fees: Some landlords rely on application fees as part of their operational revenue, and eliminating them could require adjustments.
How HB 43 Aligns with National Trends
Several states have already implemented similar policies to ease rental application burdens. For example, California and Washington have laws supporting reusable tenant screening reports, and Florida is now considering following suit.
However, some concerns remain:
- Verification and Security: Landlords must ensure that reports are legitimate and have not been tampered with.
- Setting the Standard: The bill must clarify which third-party screening providers can issue approved reusable reports.
Will HB 43 Pass
The bill is currently under review in Florida’s legislative committees. With rising housing costs and high rental demand, it could gain support from both parties. This is true for lawmakers who care about tenant rights and affordability.
What’s Next?
If passed, HB 43 would create a new system for rental applications in Florida. This could influence other states.
However, its success will depend on landlord adoption and the effectiveness of enforcement measures.
Final Thoughts on Florida House Bill 43
HB 43 is one of the many proposed laws in the 2025 Florida Legislative Session. Lawmakers believe this is a step toward reducing financial barriers for renters in Florida, but it also presents challenges for landlords who rely on traditional screening methods.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, it will be important to watch how stakeholders—including property management companies, tenant advocacy groups, and lawmakers—respond.
Looking for hassle-free property management in Florida? Allegiant Management Group stays ahead of industry changes like HB 43 to protect your investment. Contact us today to learn how we streamline tenant screening and leasing for your rental properties!
Video Overview of HB 43
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Florida HB 43 (2025) – Reusable Tenant Screening Reports
What is Florida HB 43 (2025)?
HB 43 is a bill introduced in the Florida Legislature that would allow tenants to use reusable tenant screening reports when applying for rental properties. This could help reduce costs for renters who apply to multiple properties.
How would reusable tenant screening reports work?
A tenant could obtain a single screening report from an approved third-party provider and use it to apply for multiple rental properties. This would eliminate the need to pay separate screening fees for each property.
Are landlords required to accept reusable screening reports?
No, the bill permits but does not require landlords to accept these reports. However, if they do accept them, they cannot charge an additional application fee for reviewing them.
What information must a reusable screening report include?
The bill requires reports to contain specific information, such as:
- Credit history
- Criminal background check
- Rental history
- Verification of employment and income
Will this affect how landlords screen tenants?
Yes, landlords who accept reusable screening reports will need to ensure they meet standard screening criteria and have not been altered. They may still have the right to conduct their own verification if they choose.
Will tenants be required to submit additional documentation?
Yes, applicants must provide a written statement confirming that their reusable screening report is accurate and has not been changed.
How will this law benefit renters?
- Cost Savings: Tenants can apply to multiple properties without paying repetitive fees.
- Faster Leasing Decisions: Landlords can review pre-prepared reports rather than waiting for new screenings.
- Increased Housing Opportunities: Lower fees may encourage renters to apply for more properties.
Are there any downsides for landlords?
Some landlords may have concerns about:
- The accuracy and freshness of reports.
- The potential for fraud if reports are tampered with.
- Adjusting their screening processes to accommodate the change.
When will HB 43 take effect?
If passed, the law would go into effect on July 1, 2025. However, it must first pass through legislative committees and be signed into law by the governor.
Disclaimer: This blog is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The details of HB 43 may change as the bill moves through the legislative process. If you are a landlord or tenant seeking guidance, consult a real estate attorney or legal expert for the most up-to-date information.
