According to to Legal Templates LLC, some tenants cause so much damage that the security deposit won't cover the costs. While you can use legal means to compel tenants to pay, it's a drawn-out process. It's much better to rent to respectful tenants who take good care of your investment.
Thankfully, there's a way to maximize the chances of finding the perfect renters. An extensive tenant background check you'll uncover potential red flags from an applicant's past.
Are you interested in learning more about the tenant screening process? Read on to learn more about this essential part of property rental security.
Types of Background Check
There are 3 main types of background checks. They involve investigating:
- Criminal background
- Financial records
- Rental history
Criminal Background Checks
Having a criminal background is a significant indicator of future criminal intent. In other words, if an applicant has a long history of crime, they'll likely continue. By looking for signs of a criminal past, you can reject applicants with a criminal record.
tenant credit check
Of course, you want tenants who'll pay rent on time. Through a tenant credit check, you'll learn about an applicant's finances. Someone with numerous debts and missed payments isn't likely to keep up with the rent. A credit check lets you avoid them.
Rental History
Just because someone doesn't have a record with the police, it doesn't mean they're trustworthy. Ask for references from previous landlords to figure out how well an applicant has taken care of previous properties.
Follow Legal Guidelines
According to iProperty Management, landlords in North Carolina are subject to the regulations described in the Federal Fair Housing Act. According to the act, you need to treat all applicants equally. You absolutely can't do more stringent landlord legal checks if an applicant belongs to a certain cultural or ethnic group.
If you ever have doubts, questions, or concerns about the law, you should always consult with a legal professional.
Use Reliable Tools and Services
Poor screening can give you a false sense of security. Just because your tenant credit check didn't turn up anything, it doesn't necessarily mean the applicant is financially responsible. Maybe the individual has outstanding debts in another state that your tenant background check service didn't pick up on.
When using inferior tools and services, these kinds of oversights are common. Protect your investment and get peace of mind by working with a qualified screening company with a proven track record for success.
A tenant Background Check is Crucial
When someone signs a rental contract, they gain all kinds of legal protections. If you only start seeing the red flags after a tenant has settled in, you'll have a hard time getting rid of them. It's much easier to identify issues early with a tenant background check.
Wilkinson Property Management, Inc. is ready to be your ideal tenant screening partner. We've offered screening services in Charlotte since 1999 and our extensive experience means we'll see the signs lesser services might miss. Contact us today and let's discuss your tenant screening needs.
