Getting the right tenant is a crucial part of renting your property. Here’s how to pre-screen the best tenant possible through their landlord and work verifications.
Are Landlord and Work Verifications Necessary?
I get this question a lot. But as I always say, it never fails to stick to the 5Ps: Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.
There is no way to determine right off the bat if your tenants are a good fit. But landlords, with the help of property managers, can always plan ahead and strategize.
One way to do that is through landlord and work verifications. Like credit scores, they are early indicators of good tenancy history and financial status.
What to Ask During Landlord Verification
I include landlord verification during the screening process where the tenant-applicant will be required to provide some information about their former landlords.
If they refuse or hesitate, you can probably guess that they didn’t have a good relationship with their previous landlord.
But if the applicant complies and you are able to reach their former landlord, here are a few questions you can ask about their former tenant:
- Did the tenant pay their rent on time?
- Did the tenant keep their unit in good condition?
- How were they as tenants? What did you like most about them?
- What type of situation, if any, did occur that they did not like?
- Were there any neighbors that they didn’t get along with?
- Why do you think are they moving?
Keep in mind that landlords can be incredibly busy, so you would want to set an appointment with them in advance. Be specific about the time and date, and emphasize how you would appreciate their feedback.
Furthermore, you may want to contact at least two of the applicant’s former landlords. This way, you can guarantee consistency and avoid any false information.
What to Ask During Work Verification
If your tenant-applicant provides their pay stubs, you can also use them. Pay stubs, also called payslips or paycheck stubs, indicate how much they are paid so you would know if they can pay the rent.
But looking beyond their ability to pay their bills, we want to get a grasp of their personality.
As such, here are some questions you can ask their employer or superior during work verification:
- Does the tenant show up on time?
- Are they disrespectful towards clients, superiors, or colleagues?
- Do they get along with others?
Their attitude towards work is a reflection of their overall character, and that would let you know if they are the kind of tenant that you want to deal with.
Remember, you are not just looking for someone who has a paycheck and can pay the rent. These people will be living in your property and you will deal with them for a certain period of time.
It is important to screen tenant-applicants well and utilize the information you get from their landlord and work verifications.
The Landlord Tutor Promise
In all my years of managing over 800+ properties, I have seen and dealt with countless tenant applications.
If you or anyone else you know is looking for guidance on screening tenants, such as conducting landlord and work verifications, join the Landlord Tutor community and sign up here.
