ABA Family Legal Guide

Renting Residential Property

Renting Basics

Choosing a Tenant

How can landlords choose a good tenant?

The very first thing to know when renting an apartment is that you are not selecting a friend. Renting is a commercial relationship. You should approach selecting a tenant the same way you would select a building to buy. Ask yourself: Will I get the rent I want from the tenant without too many hassles?

Require the tenant to fill out a written application. Forms can be purchased from stationery stores and real estate offices. Ask for current and former employers. Ask for current and former landlords. Go back five years, if possible.

Make phone calls to verify the information. If the prospective tenant has worked for the same employer and rented at the same place for a few years, you probably have a good tenant.

Good tenants will appreciate that you check them out. If they are good tenants, they will want to know that you've checked out your other tenants and that they're good neighbors.