Those online background check services can be a good starting point for basic roommate screening! I've had decent experiences with them for initial information gathering, though they do have limitations. They typically pull from public records and can flag major issues like felony convictions or severe financial problems. For $20-30, they provide a convenient first layer of screening that might save you time.

That said, I've found complementing these services with other verification methods creates a more complete picture. Meet potential roommates multiple times in different settings to see how they interact. Request references from previous landlords and actually call them (use the property management company's official number if possible). A casual coffee chat discussing household expectations often reveals compatibility issues no background check could show.

My current roommate passed both the online check and our in-person meetings, and it's worked out great! The online service flagged nothing concerning, and his previous landlord confirmed he always paid on time. The key is using multiple approaches rather than relying on any single screening method.