Tenant screening software should make it easier to verify applicants—not harder to stay compliant. On EchoPM, property managers order Checkr Tenant background checks from the application record, applicants complete consent in their portal, and results return to the same leasing workflow.
This guide explains what Checkr Tenant screening is on EchoPM, who pays, which packages exist, how the flow works, and where EchoPM fits under the FCRA.
What is Checkr Tenant screening on EchoPM?#
Checkr Tenant screening on EchoPM is an integrated landlord background-check workflow: the property manager chooses a screening package inside EchoPM, Checkr Tenant (an independent consumer reporting agency / reseller) runs the checks, and the applicant completes identity and consent steps without leaving the rental application experience.
EchoPM is property management software. We are not a consumer reporting agency (CRA). Screening reports are produced by Checkr Tenant; leasing decisions stay with the property manager.
For product positioning and legal disclosures, see Tenant screening disclosures and the leasing & screening solution page.
Who pays for screening—and who decides?#
On EchoPM’s default model:
- Property managers pay for the screening order (pay now or bill to the organization subscription, depending on checkout options).
- Applicants can apply for free—screening is optional and only runs when the manager orders it.
- Property managers decide whether to approve, deny, or request more information after reviewing results and their written criteria.
Current package framing on the property managers page: integrated screening from $25, with Starter, Essential, and Complete tiers. Treat that page as the marketing source of truth for list pricing; fees and availability can change.
Starter, Essential, and Complete packages#
EchoPM offers three retail screening packages for U.S. tenant verification:
| Package | From | Typical coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | $25 | Criminal background, sex offender registry, global watchlist |
| Essential | $35 | Starter checks plus soft credit and eviction history |
| Complete | $45 | Essential checks plus identity verification (ID + selfie) |
Choose the tier that matches your written rental criteria—not a different bar for each applicant. Details and checkout notes appear in the manager order flow and on property-managers § screening.
How the screening flow works#
- Applicant applies on EchoPM (search → listing → application). Applying does not require purchasing a screening report.
- Manager orders screening from the application in the manager app, picks Starter / Essential / Complete, and acknowledges responsibility for compliant use (including adverse action and fair housing duties).
- Applicant completes consent in the tenant experience (and identity steps when required by the package).
- Checkr Tenant runs the checks and returns status and report access through EchoPM.
- Manager reviews results next to the application and proceeds with a consistent, documented decision.
Reusable screening profiles may apply within the same organization for a limited window; another organization generally needs its own order. Exact reuse rules appear in-product when you order.
FCRA roles: EchoPM, Checkr, and you#
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) model EchoPM documents for customers:
- Checkr Tenant — independent third-party CRA / reseller that produces consumer reports.
- EchoPM — software platform that embeds ordering, consent, and result delivery; not a CRA and not the decision-maker on tenancy.
- Property manager / landlord — end user of the report; responsible for permissible purpose, adverse action notices when required, and fair housing–compliant criteria.
Read the full role split on Tenant screening disclosures. For practical screening hygiene (legal vs illegal questions, consistency), see How to Screen Tenants Without Getting Sued.
Fair housing and consistent criteria#
Background checks do not replace fair housing compliance. Apply the same income, credit, criminal, and rental-history standards to every similarly situated applicant. Document criteria in writing before you order.
EchoPM’s public overview: Fair housing. Deeper education: Understanding Fair Housing Laws.
This article is educational product guidance—not legal advice. When in doubt, consult counsel familiar with your markets.
Frequently asked questions#
Does EchoPM run the background checks itself?
No. EchoPM integrates Checkr Tenant to run tenant screening. EchoPM provides the ordering UI, applicant consent path, and results inside your leasing workflow.
Do tenants pay for screening on EchoPM?
By default, no—the property manager’s organization pays when they order screening. Tenants can still submit a rental application without buying a report.
What is the difference between Starter, Essential, and Complete?
Starter covers core criminal / registry / watchlist checks. Essential adds soft credit and eviction history. Complete adds identity verification on top of Essential. See property managers — screening for current “from $25” packaging language.
Is EchoPM a credit reporting agency?
No. EchoPM is property management software. Consumer reports come from Checkr Tenant. See tenant screening disclosures.
Can applicants apply without screening?
Yes. Screening is optional and manager-initiated. That keeps the application path light while still supporting stronger files when you need them.
Where do I learn compliant screening practices?
Start with How to Screen Tenants Without Getting Sued and Understanding Fair Housing Laws, then keep your written criteria aligned with fair housing requirements in your markets.
Next steps for property managers#
- Review screening on the property managers page.
- Read roles and disclosures at tenant-screening-disclosures.
- Explore the full leasing path on leasing & screening.
- Open a workspace at manager.echopm.app when you are ready to order screening from real applications.
Clear packages, applicant consent in-product, and a documented FCRA role split—that is how Checkr Tenant screening is meant to work on EchoPM.
