Information for
Owners and Managers
CFMHP - Quick Reference to tips for:
Screening Tenants - Criminal Background Checks - Credit Checks - Showing Rental Property
Tips for Screening Tenants
Usually when property is rented, management wants to make sure that it stays crime free. Filling a vacancy is easy, but filling a vacancy with a tenant who will pay the rent on time, not annoy neighbors, and keep the property in decent condition can be difficult.
Doing thorough checks on prospective tenants will help avoid the ones who may become problems in the future. In order to complete thorough checks, owners/managers need to have a plan for screening the prospects. Property owners/managers should not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age and marital status with regard to public assistance, familial status, or sexual orientation.
The same criteria need to be used for everyone. Screening standards are nothing more than criteria selected in advance regarding minimum qualifications tenants who live on your property must meet. Management should provide written documentation outlining the screening process and provide each applicant or prospective applicant a copy for their review
Tips for Criminal Background Checks
• Have the applicant sign a Criminal Background Check Consent Form that indicates they have knowledge a criminal background check is being performed.
• Compare applicant’s identification with their written applications. Ask for clarification if the information does not match or if there are discrepancies.
• Review the completed form for accuracy, legibility, and be sure all questions have been addressed/answered.
Tips for Credit Checks
• Always run a credit check on every applicant. Even if they are a friend or relative, you may not know them as well as you think.
• A person with a bad credit history may have problems with paying rent on time.
Tips for Showing Rental Property
• Do not accept walk-ins after hours. Show property by appointment only.
• Let potential tenants know you require valid picture identification before you show the property. This may prevent any criminal activity/assault during the showing as they know they can be identified.
• Try to have another person with you, such as another manager or trusted tenant if no one else is available, when showing a unit. If this is not possible let someone know where you are and when you can be expected back.
• Carry a cordless phone or a cell phone with you in case of an emergency or if you need to call for assistance.
• When showing an apartment turn (lock) the deadbolt on the door while the door is still open. This will prevent the door from closing all the way.
• Stand near the exit during the showing. Let prospective renters look through the unit. Do not let them get between you and the exit. |
