Does a rental company have the right to keep my application if I was not approved for the lease?
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Does a rental company have the right to keep my application if I was not approved for the lease?
I wanted to have my name added to a lease and the rental company did not approve me. I asked to have my application, copy of my social security card, license, and pay stub either in my hands or shredded because I do not want my SSN and bank account information floating around with a company I do not have a signed agreement with. They gave me the originals but said they needed to keep a copy for 3 years. I stated that this was illegal but they refused to give me the copies. Am I protected legally if I demand the documents?
Asked on May 31, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Virginia
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You do not have a right to make them destroy or give up the documents. If the information on the documents is misused due to some negligent (careless) or intentional act of the company or its employees, you could potentially sue them for any costs, losses, etc.; but as stated, you have no right to make them return or destroy the information.
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