How to Check References of Prospective Tenants for Your Rental Property

By eHow Personal Finance Editor

Rate: (12 Ratings)

Find out the background of prospective tenants by checking each applicant's credit history and references.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Require prospective tenants to complete written rental applications. Ask for credit histories, personal references, and names of employers and former landlords.
Step2
Consider charging a rental application fee to cover the costs (such as long distance phone calls) of checking references.
Step3
Verify employment status and bank information by contacting employers and financial institutions.
Step4
Get recommendations on the character and trustworthiness of potential renters by contacting personal references.
Step5
Contact former landlords to check on the payment records of tenants.
Step6
Order credit reports from a major credit reporting company - such as Equifax or Trans Union - to verify credit history and learn about any evictions or convictions.
Step7
Contact an agency that specializes in screening tenants - such as National Tenant Network - to receive reports on applicants' tenant histories.

Tips & Warnings

  • An applicant's previous track record is a good indicator of future behavior.
  • Landlords can legally reject applicants on the basis of credit history or background - but not because of age, gender, sexual orientation or other discriminatory reasons. Check with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) about discrimination policies in rental housing.

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eHow Article:  How to Check References of Prospective Tenants for Your Rental Property

eHow Personal Finance Editor

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