Questions To Ask From References Provided By Rental Applicants
December 5, 2022
Rental property owners seek reliable tenants who not only pay rent on time but also keep the property in good condition. This is accomplished by screening applicants to select the right tenant.
As part of the screening process, contacting applicant’s past references is a great way to verify their history. However, it is important to ask the right questions for successful outcome of the tenant reference check process. Tenant’s references can be divided into three broad categories:
- Previous Rental Owners
- Employment References
- Personal References
The questions that should be asked depend on the reference type and should be designed to collect as much information as possible about the potential tenant.
Questions You Should Ask Previous Rental Property Owners
These questions aim to understand if the tenant acts responsibly and will be a good fit for a smooth tenancy.
- Did the tenant pay rent on time? If the previous rental owner reports instance/s of delayed or missed rental payment/s, probe further to ascertain the cause of the same. Try to understand if the tenant is a habitual defaulter on rent payments.
- Did the tenant abide by the lease agreement? Ask if the tenant followed all the lease agreement clauses, such as the number of people staying in the property, pet policies, subletting, etc.
- Were there any damages caused to the rental unit? As a rental property owner, one would want to avoid any damage to the property by negligent tenants. Ask this question to understand if the applicant will mistreat your property.
- Why did the tenant leave? Ask this question to understand if the tenant will stay longer or if tenant left the property due to a conflict with the rental owner. This gives an insight into facts such as, if the tenant has a habit of shifting rentals at short intervals and how the tenant handles conflicts (if any).
Questions To Should Ask The Employment References
These questions will help you analyze if the applicant has stable employment & source of income to pay the rent regularly.
- Since when has the applicant been employed with the company? If the applicant is new to the company, try to call the previous employers to understand the applicant better.
- What is the applicant’s job role & what kind of position is it? This question helps in developing an understanding of the applicant’s job security. Also, if the job title mentioned by the applicant on the rental application is different than the title mentioned by the employer, it is a potential red flag.
- What is the applicant’s behavior at the workplace? The answer to this question sheds light on the applicant’s character & behavior in a social and professional setting. It will help determine if the applicant will trash the property or will be a nuisance to the neighbors.
Questions You Should Ask Personal References
- What is your relationship with the applicant, or how long have you known them? These questions are essential to understand how well the reference knows the applicant and the applicant’s behavior.
- How would you describe the applicant’s character? Friends or family are the best people to describe a person’s overall character, which can help you analyze if the applicant has the qualities, you are looking for in the tenant.
- Does the applicant own any pets? To verify that the applicant has not provided false information on the rental application.
Contact Hunter Rentals & Sales for complete property management solutions for your rental property. We provide services in Fort Hood, Killeen, Harker Heights, Nolanville and Belton. We are located at 1503 W Stan Schlueter Loop, Killeen, TX – 76549. You can also call (254) 634-3311 or visit www.hunterrentals.com
Discover smart property management tips for first-time rental owners. Learn how to screen tenants, set rent, handle maintenance, and stay legally compliant for success in Killeen, TX.
Mold and mildew are persistent issues in environments with high humidity, especially during warm or rainy seasons. These fungal organisms flourish in damp, poorly ventilated spaces and can appear on a variety of surfaces, including walls, ceilings, fabrics, and furniture. Besides their unpleasant appearance and smell, mold and mildew can also cause health problems, especially for people with allergies or respiratory issues. Fortunately, with consistent maintenance and environmental control, the risks associated with mold growth can be significantly reduced. Ensure Adequate Ventilation Proper air circulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce moisture buildup indoors. Spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements are particularly susceptible due to frequent water use and steam accumulation. To address this, ensure exhaust fans are properly installed and working. You can also open windows when weather conditions permit. Using ceiling fans or portable air circulators can further enhance ventilation and minimize moisture buildup. Use Dehumidifiers Strategically Dehumidifiers play a vital role in regulating indoor humidity. By drawing moisture out of the air, they create a less hospitable environment for mold and mildew. These devices are especially helpful in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas like storage rooms, attics, and lower-level spaces. Running a dehumidifier consistently can help maintain an optimal indoor humidity level, ideally between 30% and 50%. Address Leaks and Water Intrusion Quickly Unresolved water leaks—whether from pipes, roofs, or windows—can create hidden moisture pockets that lead to mold development. Regularly inspect plumbing fixtures, roofing systems, and window seals for signs of leaks or condensation. Prompt repairs are essential to prevent long-term damage and microbial growth in hidden or hard-to-reach areas. Clean and Dry Surfaces Frequently Surfaces that remain damp for extended periods are prime targets for mold colonization. Regularly wiping down wet surfaces, such as shower walls, countertops, and window ledges, helps eliminate excess moisture. Incorporating non-toxic mold-resistant cleaners into your routine can further discourage growth. In addition, drying wet fabrics or upholstery promptly and thoroughly is essential. Monitor Humidity with Hygrometers A hygrometer is a simple, affordable tool that measures indoor humidity. By placing one in each major living area, you can keep track of moisture levels and take timely action if they rise above safe thresholds. Maintaining indoor humidity below 60% significantly lowers the risk of mold and mildew formation. Maintain HVAC Systems Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems influence indoor air quality and moisture control. When neglected, they can circulate humid air or even harbor mold in ducts and filters. Routine maintenance—including regular filter replacements and periodic professional inspections—ensures efficient operation and reduces the likelihood of hidden mold development. Store Materials with Care Materials such as books, clothing, cardboard boxes, and textiles are especially vulnerable to mold if stored in damp conditions. Keep such items off the floor, away from walls, and in well-ventilated, dry areas. Use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or desiccant containers in storage spaces to provide added protection. By implementing these preventive strategies, property owners and occupants can create a healthier, drier indoor environment that is resistant to mold and mildew, even during prolonged periods of high humidity. For more information on property management and maintenance tips, visit Hunter Rentals & Sales at www.hunterrentals.com and connect on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. Hunter Rentals and Sales is located at 3207 East Stan Schlueter Loop, Killeen, Texas 76542, United States. Phone: (254) 634-3311
Determining market rent in Killeen, TX ensures your property stays competitively priced to attract reliable tenants quickly. It also helps maximize rental income without risking prolonged vacancies.
