It’s no secret identity theft is a booming business. This can have serious impact on you as an income property owner. It’s hard enough to find quality tenants without having to worry about whether they are actually who they say they are. I mean, what better way for chronically deadbeat renters to sneak into your property than claiming a whole new identity?

But don’t worry too much. Most of these characters aren’t the brightest bulbs on the circuit, so a checklist of diligent screening processes can nip most of the miscreants malfeasance in the bud. By spending a few dollars upfront in doing a proper tenant screening, you might avoid thousands in eviction proceedings.

What makes up a proper screening?

Criminal background check – do they have a history of drug use or domestic violence? Might be nice to know that up front.

Rental history – ask to see the previous month’s rent receipt rather than calling the last landlord. A checkered past of frequent moves might be a clue also.

Property managers need to use their natural detective skills and intuition. Look for people using their child’s social security number, a fake ID, fake driver’s license. Cross-check documents. Study pictures for race and age. Get an address history for the past 10 years and study it. These are just a few methods landlords and managers should make standard practice in order to latch onto the best tenants possible.