If you are a new landlord, you might be apprehensive about having to reject a tenant applicant. Are there ways to make this process less awkward and more comfortable for all parties? Yes.
Perhaps you need to reject someone because of information found in a tenant credit report, or criminal background check. Some landlords prefer to send out their tenant rejection news by mail, so that a clear explanation is in writing and indisputable. It’s also better to be up-front in the beginning of the tenant screening process, so the applicants know what will be considered before they waste your time. Explain your standards before the application process – such as credit score, and income requirements, etc. – so the tenant who knows they will not qualify bails on completing an application.
In the best interest of protecting yourself against a Fair Housing complaint, it is advised to always put a rejection reason in writing. It’s also a way of providing good customer service. Plus, calling every tenant applicant to tell them the bad news would be too time-consuming. So, having a tenant rejection letter template drafted, where you just fill in the reason (or check a box), can save a lot of time. If possible, offer a copy of the applicant’s credit report or criminal background check in the letter, so they can see proof as to why you are rejecting them
This article originally appeared on alwaysscreenblog
