How Do You Handle Potential Tenants Who Are Bad News?

How do you handle potential tenants who lie about jobs and income is the question this week for Ask Landlord Hank. Remember Hank is not an attorney and is not offering legal advice. If you have a question for him please fill out his form below.

Dear Landlord Hank,

I’m having a tremendous time getting qualified tenants at the moment. Many applications from people with bad criminal backgrounds.

I have had multiple people lie about names/jobs/income. I recently called someone on the fact they had just been evicted, they had given me false information on last address and landlord. I found the truth and called them on it, they did admit that I was correct but the next day someone tagged the property with graffiti! I’m sure it was them.

Should I not be honest with applicants? It’s a scary world. How do you handle people/tenants who are bad news? Thanks.

-Paul

Hi Paul,

Sorry you are having such a hard time finding a qualified tenant for your place.

I’ve been where you are many times in the past, having to reject multiple candidates who know they wouldn’t pass normal rental screening. On properties like this I ask tenants up front the info I want to know.

You could say you are managing the property for the owner and that the owner requires a credit score of 650 or better, good rental history, clean background and must gross at least three times the rent, plus anything else that is important to you.

That way the candidates won’t waste an application fee only to be denied. I’d also consider putting up a temporary security camera at your place with video recording so you can protect your place.

Good luck!

Sincerely, Hank Rossi

Each week I answer questions from landlords and property managers across the country in my “Dear Landlord Hank” blog in the digital magazine Rental Housing Journal.  https://rentalhousingjournal.com/asklandlordhank/

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