One common thing that most landowners may have to face from time to time has a bad tenant. The first line of defense against a troublesome tenant is to check their background thoroughly. It can help you avoid any future rent problems and reduce stress big time. But how does one get to know a red flag about a tenant? 

Keeping this question in mind we thought to enlighten you with basic red flags that might go unnoticed during screening, especially for new societies such as Capital Smart City Islamabad where you want to live in a secure neighborhood with a tenant with a good reputation. Where situations may vary from tenant to tenant, it is still a wise option to indicate a bad tenant. 

Criminal Record

While a prospective tenant’s criminal history should not be the deciding factor, it is an important factor to consider. There are numerous criminal offenses that someone may have on their record, but be wary of the following:

• Violent offenses
• Felonies committed within the last ten years
• Multiple misdemeanors on record

As you go through the background check process, make sure each applicant’s record is free of these offenses.

Credit Score Low

Applicants have low credit scores for a variety of reasons, ranging from consistently paying their rent late (or not at all) to amassing significant student loan debt. A low credit score may indicate that a potential renter is not good at budgeting and is financially irresponsible. While a credit score is not everything, it does provide an indication of the type of tenant the applicant may be.

False references and contact details

If an applicant provides false references or incorrect contact information, they may be attempting to conceal a negative aspect of their rental history. References are your way of verifying a candidate’s viability as a high-quality candidate; this is someone who pays their rent on time, follows the rules, doesn’t bother others, and takes care of the rental unit. Consider hiring someone else if an applicant refuses to provide relevant references and accurate contact information.

All of their references are family members

Because relatives are usually biased, family members do not make the best references. For example, if an applicant provides references from their mother and uncle, expect raving reviews that may inaccurately represent the person as a tenant. Contacts who are willing to provide objective and accurate information about the applicant, such as their previous landlord or employer, are ideal. In this case, please request that your applicant provide non-related references.

Evictions in the Past

A renter may find themselves in an unpleasant situation when they receive an eviction notice at their front door. A potential tenant can be evicted for a variety of reasons, including breaking lease rules, failing to pay rent, or losing their only source of income. While you may sympathize with their situation, a history of evictions is problematic and can take up to three months to complete. Learn why they were removed, and then use that information to help guide your decision.

Excessive Refusal of Background Check Results

A self-assured renter should have no problems with the results of their background check. However, if an applicant consistently refutes the information in the screening report, this could be a red flag. If something seems out of place, a renter has the right to question the validity of their background check results. However, if a tenant refuses to accept the report or claims it is completely invalid, they may be attempting to conceal something important from you.

Frequent Moving History

There are several legitimate reasons for a tenant to move around frequently, ranging from military deployment to job relocation. A tenant who is constantly moving without a plausible reason, on the other hand, is a sign of instability. It could indicate that the renter does not pay their rent on time or that they consistently break their leases early. Either way, there is a higher chance this tenant will break your lease agreement too, so it is best to avoid the additional time and expenses it would cost you.

Advance Payment Offer

If a tenant offers you an advance rent payment before you have thoroughly reviewed their application, you should be suspicious. Be wary of applicants who offer you quick cash to avoid the background check unless you specifically request it. They may have a poor rental history, bad credit, or false references that they do not want you to check. Refuse their request politely and proceed with the screening process as usual.