Injustice Watch reports that Chicago property owners file over 20,000 eviction cases yearly. Nobody wants to deal with bad tenants - it's a frustrating experience!
Renting out your property isn't something to take lightly. Your rental property is a significant investment. So, a tenant criminal background check should be among your priorities.
Professional property management in Chicago understands how to conduct rental application screening. Chicago tenant screening helps protect rental properties. However, you need to conduct the tenant verification process legally and respectfully.
Increase your chances of finding good tenants in Chicago with our expert background check tips.
Review the Tenant's Rental History
Rental history will enlighten you about a tenant's relationship with their previous landlords. You'll also get insights into the tenant's payment reliability.
Consider getting references from the tenant's previous landlord. Ask them about the period the tenant had stayed in their properties.
Also, inquire about the tenant's behaviors. A tenant's behavior will determine your relationship with them. Ask about things like:
- Neighbor relations
- Rule or lease term compliance
- Property care
- Communication
You can also ask questions beyond tenant relationships. For example, ask how landlords make tenants renew their leases.
Always be specific when reviewing a tenant's rental history. Ask targeted questions like, " how did you relate with the tenant?"
Conduct Credit Checks
Credit check analysis helps a landlord find tenants with good credit scores. A good credit score reflects financial accountability and trustworthiness.
A tenant with a good credit score pays rent on time. They also fulfill other agreements like clearing rent balances, as per the lease agreement.
Conduct thorough credit checks to minimize the risk of evictions. You'll also avoid tenants who refuse to pay rent. Rent payment issues by tenants can lower your rental income.
Don't run a credit check without a tenant's consent. This will help you avoid legal problems like lawsuits. Also, ask the tenant to provide you with their free credit reports.
Check the Tenant's Criminal History
A tenant should fit well with your rental property and other renters. You don't want a tenant who will break into other people's houses or damage your property.
Checking a tenant's criminal history will help enhance safety in your rental property. You also find tenants who will give you and other tenants peace of mind.
This part of the tenant verification process also helps minimize liability. It also encourages transparency and trustworthiness.
Checking tenant's criminal histories is a good way of managing landlord stress. Some ideas for checking a new tenant's criminal history include:
- Working with a property management company
- Checking the tenant's local police records
- Requesting for self-disclosure
- Checking the tenant's online public record database
Ensure you follow Chicago housing laws when conducting tenant background checks. Comply with the Chicago renting rights to avoid discrimination.
Prioritize a Tenant Criminal Background Check to Protect Your Investment
Conducting a tenant criminal background check isn't as easy as it sounds. A property manager in Chicago has the knowledge and expertise to help you get quality and reliable tenants.
PMI Cook County's management practices include conducting thorough tenant screening and expert criminal background checks. Let us make your rental investment a success story. Reach out today!
