How to Screen Tenants the Right Way
A Guide for Property Owners
Screening tenants well is one of the most important things a landlord can do. Here's how to do it consistently and legally.
Talk to a Property ExpertWhat to Screen For
- Credit history and financial responsibility
- Employment verification
- Income (typically 3x monthly rent)
- Rental history and landlord references
- Criminal background (within legal limits)
- Eviction history
Fair Housing Requirements
Federal Fair Housing law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. Many states and cities add additional protected classes. Screening criteria must be applied consistently across every applicant — no exceptions.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unverifiable income or employment
- Recent evictions
- Significant gaps in rental history
- Inconsistent application information
- Unwillingness to provide references
Why Owners Use Professionals
Screening tenants is one of the highest-stakes parts of being a landlord — and one of the easiest to do wrong. Professional property managers use consistent, compliant processes that reduce both legal risk and the chance of placing a bad tenant.