When Background Checks Are Done?

Prospective clients often inquire, “When are background checks done?” This question is critical for anyone looking to partner with a new background screening provider that is comprehensive, fast, affordable, and compliant with the FCRA and local and state laws. Understanding the timing and execution of background checks is essential in various contexts, including employment, housing, and more.

Importance of Background Checks for Employers

Background checks are a crucial element of the hiring process for several reasons:

Workplace Safety: Ensuring the safety of the workplace is paramount. Background checks can identify potential risks posed by candidates with violent histories. Studies indicate that implementing thorough background checks reduces workplace violence incidents by up to 50%.
Quality of Hire: Background checks contribute significantly to the quality of hire, verifying the accuracy of a candidate’s resume. Research shows that employers who conduct detailed screenings report a 20% improvement in hire quality.
Suitability for the Role: Checking a candidate’s background confirms their suitability for the role based on their experience, qualifications, and education, which is critical in filling positions effectively. For instance, 30% of businesses report better job performance and satisfaction when background checks confirm candidate suitability.
Negligent Hiring and Retention: Negligent hiring can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions if new hires cause harm. Effective background screening reduces these risks, evidenced by a decrease in related litigation.

How Background Checks Work

A typical background check includes several components:

Social Security Trace: Establishes the candidate’s identity and address history.
Criminal History Check: Searches for any criminal records at national, state, and local levels.
Employment Verification: Confirms the candidate’s employment history.
Education Verification: Verifies academic credentials.
Motor Vehicle Records: Checks the driving history, particularly important for roles requiring driving.

Steps in the Background Check Process

The background check process involves:

Consent and Data Collection: Starts with obtaining consent from the individual for the background check.
Research: Information is gathered from both public and private records.
Analysis and Reporting: The data is analyzed, verified, and compiled into a report for the employer or landlord.

Typically, background checks review records going back 7 to 10 years, depending on the regulations of the jurisdiction involved.

Defining the Scope of Background Checks

The scope of a background check is tailored to the specific requirements of the position, reflecting its responsibilities and associated risks. This specificity means that background checks are not generic but customized to provide the most relevant information for decision-making. Poorly scoped background checks or those done on the cheap using instant online services often fail to provide accurate and legally compliant information, potentially leading to bad hiring decisions.

Conclusion

To answer “When are background checks done?”—they are typically conducted once a candidate has been identified as a potential hire and has given consent for screening. For employers and landlords seeking reliable and comprehensive screening services, it is essential to partner with a qualified consumer reporting agency like EDIFY Background Screening. Our expertise ensures that background investigations are conducted efficiently, affordably, and in compliance with all relevant laws, helping you make informed decisions swiftly. Contact EDIFY Background Screening to discuss how our services can meet your specific needs and enhance the safety and integrity of your organization or property.

By Zia Rhodes|2024-08-22T14:11:18-04:00April 24th, 2024|WHEN|Comments Off

About the Author: Zia Rhodes

Zia Rodes is a dedicated Customer Success Manager at EDIFY Background Screening, where she plays a crucial role in ensuring client satisfaction across various screening services including employer background checks, tenant screenings, and comprehensive drug tests. With her deep expertise in conducting criminal background checks, evaluating eviction and credit histories, and ensuring accurate drug test results, Zia brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that aligns perfectly with Edify's commitment to service excellence and integrity. At EDIFY, Zia is renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to tailor solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, from small businesses to large corporations. Her approach is always grounded in the company’s core values of transparency, ethics, excellence, and compassion. She understands that every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce trust and reliability, ensuring that clients not only receive thorough background checks but also experience a process that is as smooth and transparent as possible. Zia’s extensive understanding of background screening processes, from criminal background histories to detailed checks of credit and eviction records, makes her an invaluable resource for clients needing diverse background check solutions. Her dedication to exceeding client expectations helps EDIFY stand out as a leader in comprehensive and trustworthy background screening services.