While Vidle Housing does not currently conduct formal background checks on travelers, hosts may establish their own reasonable screening requirements, subject to applicable laws and Vidle Housing policies.
What Types of Screening Can Hosts Request?
Depending on the property and applicable laws, hosts may request:
A third-party background check.
Employment or travel assignment verification.
Professional or previous rental references.
A signed rental agreement.
Other reasonable screening information relevant to the reservation.
Any screening requirements should be clearly communicated before the traveler books.
How to Implement a Background Check Requirement
If you require a traveler to complete a background check or additional screening:
Disclose the requirement clearly. Include the screening requirement in your listing description and house rules so travelers are aware of it before booking.
Communicate early. Do not wait until immediately before check-in to notify a traveler about a previously undisclosed screening requirement.
Keep communication on-platform. Use Vidle Housing messaging whenever possible to keep a clear record of communication.
Explain the process. Let the traveler know what screening is required, who conducts it, whether there is a fee, and what information may be requested.
Apply requirements consistently. Screening policies should be applied fairly and consistently to travelers.
Can I Charge a Traveler for a Background Check?
If a third-party background check requires a fee, the cost and requirement should be clearly disclosed before booking.
Hosts should not surprise travelers with undisclosed screening fees after a reservation has been confirmed.
Important Legal Considerations
Hosts are responsible for ensuring that their screening practices comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Depending on the screening process, laws involving fair housing, consumer reports, privacy, data protection, and tenant screening may apply.
Screening requirements must not be used to discriminate against travelers based on protected characteristics.
Vidle Housing does not provide legal advice, and hosts with questions about their specific screening practices should consult a qualified legal professional or appropriate local authority.
What If a Traveler Refuses to Complete a Required Background Check?
If the background check or screening requirement was clearly disclosed before booking and the traveler refuses to complete it, contact Vidle Housing Support before canceling the reservation or taking further action.
Our team can review the reservation details, listing disclosures, house rules, and communication history to help determine the appropriate next steps.
Protecting Traveler Information
Hosts should never request that travelers send highly sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, full financial account information, or copies of sensitive identity documents, through Vidle Housing messaging.
If a third-party screening provider is used, travelers should complete the screening through the provider's secure process.
If you have questions about how to clearly communicate a screening requirement in your listing or house rules, contact Vidle Housing Support.
Our team can help with general platform guidance and listing communication, but cannot provide legal advice regarding individual screening requirements.