In June of 2010, the Tenant Fair Chance Act went into effect. This legislation (sponsored by Council Members Garodnick and Koppel) requires management companies, broker's offices or landlords  to notify prospective tenants of whether or not they use tenant screening reports. The law applies to buildings with more than 5 units.  The law mandates that the the names of tenant screening bureaus used be posted visibly in the rental office, and that the address of the company be on the poster. The law also requires that those who use written applications include in writing on the form:  1) whether or not they use a tenant screening report, 2) if so, what company they use, and 3) how to contact that office so that a tenant can request a free annual copy of their report.

With this information, a tenant can obtain a copy of their report and attempt to clear up any erroneous information on their record before applying for the apartment.  You can find a copy of the Tenant Fair Chance Act here.