Tenant Screening

Ask these 10 questions to shortlist the tenants

1. Are you currently working somewhere? 

This establishes a basic understanding of their current financial stability. Consistent employment is a positive indicator of their ability to pay rent. A 2023 study by TransUnion found that 76% of landlords consider employment history a very important factor when screening tenants. 

2. How much is your monthly earning?

This helps you assess whether they can comfortably afford the rent. A common guideline is the 3x rule – their gross monthly income should be at least three times the monthly rent. According to a 2022 survey by Avail, 68% of landlords require tenants to have an income of at least three times the rent.

3. Can you show documents of proof of earning?

This verifies the income they claim. Pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns provide concrete evidence of their financial capacity. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia found that landlords who verify income are 20% less likely to experience rent defaults.

4. Can you provide contact information for your previous landlords?

This allows you to get insights into their rental history from a previous landlord's perspective. You can learn about their payment history, how they treated the property, and if they followed lease terms. A 2023 survey by RentPrep revealed that 95% of landlords conduct reference checks with previous landlords.

5. Why are you moving?

While the answer may not be a deal-breaker, it can give you context. Are they moving for positive reasons (e.g., new job, bigger space) or potentially negative ones (e.g., eviction, disputes with neighbors)?

6. How long did you live at your previous addresses?

A history of short stays at multiple addresses can be a red flag, potentially indicating instability or problems with previous landlords. A study by Zillow found that tenants who stay in a rental for 2+ years are 15% less likely to miss rent payments.

7. How many people will be living in the unit?

This ensures compliance with occupancy limits set by local ordinances and your lease agreement. Overcrowding can lead to increased wear and tear on the property. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides guidelines on occupancy standards to prevent overcrowding.

8. Are you okay for credit check?

A credit check gives you a snapshot of their financial responsibility. It shows their history of paying bills on time, any outstanding debts, and any bankruptcies. Experian reports that 84% of landlords use credit checks to screen tenants.

9. Do you have any previous eviction?

Past evictions are a strong indicator of potential future problems. Evictions can be costly and time-consuming for landlords. TransUnion found that tenants with a prior eviction are 3 times more likely to be evicted again.

10. Is the tenant showing Urgency?

While it's understandable that some tenants have legitimate reasons for needing to move quickly, excessive urgency can be a potential red flag. Tenants who press for an immediate move-in, without allowing for proper screening or background checks, might be trying to hide something like a past eviction, poor credit history, or even a rental scam. 

Non Section 8 Screening

Section 8 Screening