Residential Rental Application Criteria
We screen all applicants consistently and fairly in compliance with Chicago's Fair Housing Ordinance, the Illinois Human Rights Act, and the federal Fair Housing Act.
Fair Housing Statement: Altus Property Partners does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All applicants are evaluated using the same written criteria applied consistently.
Income & Employment
Income Requirement
Gross monthly income must be at least 3x the monthly rent. For example, if rent is $1,500/month, you must demonstrate $4,500/month in gross income.
Acceptable Income Sources
Employment income (full-time, part-time, or self-employed), Social Security or disability benefits, pension or retirement income, child support or alimony (with documentation), housing vouchers (Section 8 / CHA), or a combination of the above.
Employment Verification
We verify income via recent pay stubs (last 2), offer letters for new employment, tax returns (last 2 years for self-employed), or benefit award letters. Bank statements may be requested as supplemental documentation.
Co-Signers
Co-signers are accepted for applicants who meet credit and background requirements but fall short on income. Co-signers must demonstrate income of at least 5x the monthly rent and will be held equally responsible for the lease.
Credit History
Minimum Credit Score
We require a minimum credit score of 620 for standard approval. Applicants with scores between 580–619 may be approved with an additional security deposit. Scores below 580 are generally not approved.
Credit Report Review
We review your full credit report, including payment history, outstanding balances, collections, and public records. Medical collections are given less weight than financial collections.
Bankruptcy
Discharged bankruptcies (Chapter 7 or 13) are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. A discharge that is more than 2 years old with re-established credit may be approved.
Outstanding Eviction Judgments
Unsatisfied eviction judgments or money judgments from prior landlords are grounds for denial.
Rental History
Rental Verification
We contact your current and previous landlords to verify rental history. We ask about payment history, lease violations, property condition at move-out, and whether they would rent to you again.
Prior Evictions
A prior eviction filing within the last 5 years is grounds for denial. Evictions that are more than 5 years old are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
First-Time Renters
First-time renters without rental history are evaluated on income, credit, and employment stability. A co-signer or additional deposit may be required.
Background Check
Criminal Background
We conduct a criminal background check on all applicants 18 and older. We follow Chicago's Just Housing Amendment (Chicago Municipal Code 5-8-030), which requires individualized assessment of criminal history. We do not have a blanket ban on applicants with criminal records.
Sex Offender Registry
Applicants listed on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry are not approved.
Identity Verification
All applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport). We verify identity against the application.
Occupancy & Pets
Occupancy Standards
Occupancy is limited to 2 persons per bedroom plus 1 additional occupant per unit, consistent with HUD guidelines and Chicago ordinance. All occupants 18 and older must apply and be approved.
Pets
Pet policies vary by property. Where pets are permitted, a pet addendum, pet deposit, and/or monthly pet fee may apply. Breed restrictions may apply for dogs. Service animals and emotional support animals are accommodated per Fair Housing law regardless of pet policy.
Smoking
All Altus-managed properties are smoke-free. Smoking is prohibited inside units and within 15 feet of building entrances per Chicago ordinance.
Legend
The Application Process
Submit Application
Complete the online application through the Resident Portal or ShowMojo listing page. A non-refundable application fee of $50 per adult applicant covers the cost of credit and background screening.
Screening
We run a credit check, background check, and rental history verification. All screening is conducted through a third-party provider in compliance with Illinois and Chicago fair housing law.
Decision
You'll receive a decision within 2–3 business days. If approved, you'll receive a lease offer. If denied, you'll receive an adverse action notice with the reason for denial and information about your rights.
Lease Signing & Move-In
Sign your lease electronically through the Resident Portal. Pay your first month's rent and security deposit to secure the unit. Move-in inspection is conducted on your move-in date.
Questions about your application?
Contact our leasing team at [email protected] or call (312) 847-4414 Mon–Fri 8 AM–6 PM CT.
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