When you’re a host on VRBO or any other short-term rental platform, the focus is often on ensuring that guests are a good fit for your property. But what happens when a potential renter has a felony record? Can felons rent on VRBO? The short answer is yes—they can. However, the issue isn’t as straightforward as it seems, and understanding what this means for you as a host can help protect your property and business.
Platforms like VRBO don’t explicitly prohibit felons from renting. In fact, they often leave screening responsibilities to the hosts. This means you need to know how to approach this sensitive subject while balancing guest privacy, safety, and your own business interests. Here’s what you should understand.
VRBO’s Position on Background Checks
VRBO does not conduct criminal background checks on guests. Their primary focus is on facilitating bookings and providing a platform for hosts and travelers. This leaves it up to hosts to decide whether to screen guests further.
As a host, this flexibility can be both a blessing and a challenge. You’re empowered to set your own standards, but it also means you carry the responsibility of vetting guests effectively.
Many hosts rely on third-party screening tools or request additional information from guests before confirming bookings. However, there’s a fine line between gathering enough information to feel confident about your guest and overstepping into invasive territory that could deter potential renters.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Renting to someone with a felony record doesn’t inherently mean your property or business is at risk. But ignoring potential red flags can lead to costly mistakes. The key lies in assessing each situation individually.
Some felonies, such as non-violent offenses from years ago, may have little to no bearing on a person’s behavior today. On the other hand, recent convictions for property damage, fraud, or violent crimes could pose a legitimate concern.
To protect your property:
Focus on behavior that might affect your rental directly.
Avoid blanket assumptions about individuals based on their record alone.
Privacy Laws and Discrimination Risks
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and similar state laws prohibit discrimination based on race, religion, gender, national origin, and several other factors. While criminal history isn’t a protected category under the FHA, using it as a sole basis to reject someone could still lead to accusations of discrimination.
For example, if your policies disproportionately impact certain groups—such as minorities who are statistically more likely to have felony records—you might face legal challenges.
To stay compliant:
Establish clear, consistent screening criteria that apply to all guests.
Avoid arbitrary decisions. A policy like “no one with a criminal record” could backfire.
Ensure your criteria focus on behavior directly related to the safety of your property and other guests.
Tools and Strategies for Screening Guests
Since VRBO doesn’t conduct background checks, many hosts turn to third-party tools to screen guests. These tools can provide criminal background checks, ID verification, and more.
However, it’s crucial to use these tools responsibly. Excessive screening can alienate potential renters, and failing to comply with privacy laws could result in legal trouble.
A few best practices:
Be transparent about your screening process. Let potential guests know upfront if you use third-party tools.
Consider focusing on red flags tied to rental risks, such as past property damage or fraud, rather than unrelated criminal history.
Balance automated tools with personal communication. A conversation with the guest can provide valuable context and reassurance.
Communication Is Key
Sometimes, a direct conversation with a potential guest can clarify concerns better than any background check. If a guest discloses a felony or you uncover information during screening, take the time to discuss it with them.
Approach these conversations with professionalism and empathy. Ask about their rental history and any steps they’ve taken to move forward since their conviction. A sincere dialogue can often provide insight into whether they’re a good fit for your property.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
When renting to anyone, including individuals with a criminal record, it’s essential to understand your insurance coverage. If an incident occurs, will your policy cover damages? Some policies may have exclusions for intentional acts of damage or negligence by guests.
Additionally, consider creating a rental agreement that outlines clear expectations for guest behavior. While this won’t prevent issues outright, it provides a legal foundation to address problems if they arise.
Balancing Risk with Opportunity
It’s important to remember that not all felons pose a risk to your property. In fact, turning away guests solely based on a criminal record could mean missing out on reliable renters.
Many individuals with felony records are looking for a second chance and may value the opportunity to rent responsibly. By implementing fair and consistent screening practices, you can strike a balance between minimizing risk and fostering inclusivity.
Autohost’s Role in Guest Screening
If managing guest screening feels overwhelming, tools like Autohost can simplify the process. Autohost automates guest verification by analyzing booking details, ID verification, and behavioral patterns, helping hosts identify potential risks without relying on invasive tactics.
This solution ensures that every guest is evaluated fairly and consistently, allowing you to focus on running your business rather than worrying about who’s booking your property.
Real-World Scenarios
Consider a host who rents a beachfront property. A prospective guest discloses a non-violent felony from 15 years ago but provides glowing references from other rentals. Instead of rejecting them outright, the host uses a third-party tool to verify their rental history and holds a brief phone conversation. The guest turns out to be respectful and leaves the property in perfect condition.
Contrast this with another scenario where a guest fails to disclose a recent conviction for property damage. The host didn’t screen them, and they caused significant damage during their stay. This highlights why thoughtful screening is crucial.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
As the short-term rental industry evolves, so do guest expectations and challenges for hosts. Felons renting on platforms like VRBO is just one aspect of a broader conversation about trust, safety, and inclusivity in the hospitality space.
By staying informed, using the right tools, and maintaining fair policies, you can navigate these challenges confidently. Hosting isn’t just about managing properties; it’s about building a reputation as a professional who values safety and fairness equally.
Whether or not you choose to rent to felons, the most important takeaway is to have a clear, consistent process that aligns with your values and protects your business.