Screening tenants and managing applications
How to collect rental applications, verify information, and choose the right tenant for your property.
Finding the Right Tenant
A vacant unit costs you money, but a bad tenant can cost you much more. Proper screening is your first line of defense against late payments, property damage, and eviction headaches.
Creating a Listing
When you mark a unit as "Available", create a listing with:
- Photos of the unit
- Description highlighting features
- Rent price and available date
- Requirements (no smoking, pets, etc.)
This generates a shareable page you can post anywhere.
Receiving Applications
Applicants fill out:
- Personal Information: Name, contact, ID.
- Employment: Employer, income, length of employment.
- Rental History: Previous landlord contacts.
- References: Personal and professional.
Reviewing Applications
Check Income
The rule of thumb: rent should be no more than 30% of gross income. Request pay stubs to verify.
Contact Previous Landlords
Ask: Did they pay on time? Leave the unit in good condition? Would you rent to them again?
Run Background Checks
With consent, you can order credit reports, criminal background checks, and eviction history through RentMouse's screening partners.
Making a Decision
Consider income-to-rent ratio, credit history, rental history, and employment stability.
If you approve: send them a lease, collect the deposit, and invite them to the portal.
If you decline: RentMouse generates the required adverse action notice if the decision was based on their background check.
Fair Housing Reminder
Never discriminate based on race, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. Apply the same criteria consistently to all applicants.