🧾 Tenant Screening: How to Find Good Tenants

Published: July 2025
By Derek Barksdale Founder of MIlitary Mutual 

One of the most important steps in successful property management is finding the right tenant. A good tenant pays rent on time, takes care of the property, and communicates responsibly. A bad one? They can cost you thousands in damages, lost rent, and legal fees.

That’s why tenant screening is essential. Here’s a complete guide on how to screen tenants effectively and protect your rental investment.

✅ 1. Start With a Strong Rental Application

Begin the process with a thorough rental application that gathers:

• Full name and contact information

• Employment and income details

• Previous landlord references

• Social Security number (for background/credit check)

• Consent to run credit and background checks

📋 Use online platforms like TurboTenant, RentRedi, or Avail to simplify this process.

💳 2. Run a Credit Check

A tenant’s credit report reveals how they handle financial responsibilities.

What to look for:

• Credit score (ideally 620+)

• Payment history

• Debt load

• Collections or bankruptcies

💡 Look beyond the number—consistent on-time payments matter more than a perfect score.

🔍 3. Conduct a Background and Eviction Check

You want tenants who follow the law and respect rental agreements.

Screen for:

• Criminal history

• Previous evictions

• Civil judgments

• Identity verification

📁 Use trusted services like SmartMove, RentPrep, or MyRental to ensure compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

💼 4. Verify Employment and Income

Can they afford the rent? A general rule is that monthly income should be at least 3x the rent.

Steps:

• Call the employer or request pay stubs/bank statements

• Confirm job title, duration, and income

• Self-employed? Ask for tax returns or business records

📊 Stable income = reliable rent payments.

📞 5. Check Landlord References

Talking to past landlords can give you insights no report will.

Questions to ask:

• Did the tenant pay rent on time?

• Was the unit kept in good condition?

• Were there complaints or issues?

• Would you rent to them again?

📞 Always call at least the last two landlords to avoid bias or favoritism.

🚩 6. Watch for Red Flags

Even if everything looks good on paper, stay alert for warning signs:

• Incomplete application

• Unverifiable income

• Pressure to move in immediately

• Hesitation to authorize background checks

⚠️ Trust your process more than your instincts—consistency is key.

📝 7. Use a Clear and Fair Screening Policy

To stay compliant with Fair Housing Laws, apply the same criteria to all applicants.

Tips:

• Write out your minimum standards (credit, income, pets, smoking, etc.)

• Stick to objective data

• Keep records of all applications and decisions

📚 A transparent process protects you legally and builds trust with applicants.

✅ Final Thoughts: Great Tenants Start With Great Screening

Finding a responsible tenant isn’t luck—it’s a result of a clear, consistent screening process. With the right tools, communication, and policies in place, you can confidently fill your rental with qualified, respectful tenants who protect your investment.