O A housing provider cannot charge you a credit or background check fee if you provide one to them that was run within the last 30 days. Who should pay the fee?You don't need to send a credit report prior to looking at a place you aren't even sure you want to live at. Credit and background check information is pulled once during the 30 day period. In this blog, we'll explore soft credit checks, the factors that influence them, and the impact they have on renting your next dream home. Applicants should complete the "Request for Application Fee Waiver and Certification" form online.