How To Check a Renter's Background
When renting your home or apartment it is important to screen your prospective tenants. A tenant's credit report, job history, past relationships with landlords, criminal record and personal character indicate how responsible he will be. By checking your renters' background, you can select renters you believe can pay the rent on time, be good neighbors and take care of your property.
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Instructions
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Require prospective renters to complete a rental application. The application should contain name, address, Social Security number, employer, past landlords and character references. Also have the prospective renter sign a consent to release form to obtain credit history reports.
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Contact the renter's current employer to verify employment. Ask how long the prospective renter has been employed and what the outlook is for continued employment. Inquire if she is a full-time, part-time or seasonal employee.
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Run a credit history report on your renter. Credit history reports can be obtained for a fee from several online services. The report will be an indicator of the tenant's ability to pay the rent by showing you his previous financial responsibility.
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Contact former landlords listed on the application. Inquire about the renter's payment history, reason for leaving and if the property was left in good condition.
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Search local court records for domestic, civil or criminal activity. Court records are public records and can be searched through county websites using names or Social Security numbers.
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Tips & Warnings
Attend a landlord training workshop to learn your rights and responsibilities. Many local communities conduct landlord training workshops.
References
Resources
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