Top 5 questions to ask a new tenant

After giving tenants tips about the top things to always ask their new landlord, today at Yeehlow we focus property owners.

When it comes to landlords, questions will focus on the rental history of the new tenant and on his/her financial availability. Here are the 5 things you should never forget to ask!

Will you live by yourself or with someone else?

This information is fundamental to decide how much to charge monthly and to have an idea of bills and extra expenses. Also, ask about potential pets: a landlord should always know exactly who’s living in his property for a long period of time!

Do you have enough money to pay the deposit and the first months of rent?

Enquire about the financial situation of your tenant. This doesn’t mean you have to be rude or nosey, but the lodger will understand your need to be sure that all the bills will be paid on time since the very beginning of the contract.

Are you able to provide references from former landlords?

References are always a useful tool to understand a bit more about the tenant’s characteristics and habits when it comes to living in a rented house or room. Good references immediately convey peace of mind and they represent a further reason for trusting a new lodger.

Do you agree to a credit and background check?

If the tenant’s background is clean he won’t have any problem in giving you the information you need. A credit check at the beginning of the tenancy will reassure you about the actual financial situation of the tenant: if after this you still have doubts about his possibility to pay you, do not take the risk!

When will you move in?

Eventually, enquire and set a precise date to start the tenancy. From that moment on, the tenant will be free to move in the property and he will start paying all the related costs (bills, expenses and monthly rent.)