Who should qualify as a good Tenant for a Landlord?

Posted under Advice by Alan

The relationship between a landlord and a tenant can both be pleasant or full of conflicts. A saying, well begun is half done, is perfectly true in case of a rental deal between the two. The onus of well beginning however lies on the landlord. Before allowing a tenant to move into the property, landlord should thoroughly inquire and verify credentials of the tenant.

A lot of information must be collected from the tenant, his previous landlords and neighbours to decide whether he/she qualifies renting your precious property for use.

You may ask the prospective tenant to fill up an application and answer the queries truthfully.
Ask for important details which will guide you in taking a decision for renting your property.

Your questions can include:

1. Source of income
2. Address of business/employment
3. Monthly income
4. Bank address
5. Social security number
6. Number of occupants, their ages and status
7. Names and addresses of current and previous landlords
8. Reasons for leaving current property
9. Whether ever evicted from property
10. Whether ever convicted for any crime

Application should caution the potential tenant of legal consequences of furnishing false information.
Few questions may appear offending to the applicant, nevertheless it will buy peace of mind for you after renting the property.

Based on the furnished information, you should conduct thorough inquiry by visiting current and previous landlords and few neighbours. You should find out if the tenant is regular in payment of rent and had good relationship with neighbours. Verify information about employment/business.

A qualified tenant is one who pays rent regularly and coexists with neighbours peacefully. As per the law, a landlord must treat all tenants equally. You should therefore be reasonable and equally cautious in selection of your tenant.