For applicants
How the Application Fee Works
Your $35 fee per adult pays for your screening report and the staff time to verify your application, as Civil Code 1950.6 allows. If we don't screen your application, we refund it.
Reviewed by Wolfgang Croskey, Broker of Record, California DRE #01708438 | Last reviewed: August 2026
1. Hard Costs from Third-Party Screening Services
The moment an application is processed, third-party screening providers and credit bureaus (e.g., AppFolio Screening) charge a direct, non-reimbursable fee to generate the applicant’s credit report, eviction history, and identity verification.
2. Staff Time & Verification Labor
Under California Civil Code § 1950.6, application screening fees are legally established to compensate property managers for:
- The actual out-of-pocket cost of obtaining consumer credit reports.
- The reasonable value of time spent by staff reviewing documents, verifying employment and income (pay stubs, tax returns, bank records), and contacting current/previous landlords.
Once a coordinator begins reviewing the file and pulls reports, those financial and labor expenses have already been incurred, regardless of whether the application is approved, conditionally approved, or denied.
Read the statute: California Civil Code § 1950.6 (leginfo.ca.gov)
When we refund your fee
If we don’t screen your application, for example because another applicant signs a lease first, we refund your fee. Ask us and we’ll give you a receipt showing what it paid for, and a copy of your screening report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the application fee refundable?
Once we've run your screening report, no. The fee paid for that report and the staff time to verify your application. If we never screen your application, we refund it.
Ready to Apply?
See the full screening criteria, or start your application. Questions? Contact our Leasing Team at info@croskeyrealestate.com or call (925) 336-3282.