Common risks include:

• Non-payment of rent
• Damage to the property
• False employment information
• Misrepresented income
• Poor rental history
• Undisclosed occupants
• Difficult and expensive eviction processes

Professional tenant screening helps reduce these risks by providing objective information before a decision is made.

1. Verify Identity

Always confirm that the applicant is who they claim to be.Identity verification should include:

• South African ID or Passport verification
• Confirmation of date of birth
• Verification of personal information
• Confirmation that documents supplied are genuine

Accepting a tenant without proper identity verification can expose a landlord to significant risk.

2. Check Affordability

One of the most common mistakes landlords make is relying solely on what a tenant says they earn.Income should be supported by:

• Payslips
• Bank statements
• Employment verification
• Business records for self-employed applicants

As a general guideline, rental payments should be affordable relative to the applicant's income and financial commitments.

3. Verify Employment

Employment verification is essential.Questions should include:

• Is the applicant currently employed?
• How long have they been employed?
• Is the position permanent, temporary, or contractual?
• Does the income declared match employer records?

Many rental disputes begin when income information is inaccurate or outdated.

4. Review Credit and Risk Information

Credit information provides valuable insight into an applicant's financial behaviour.While a poor credit profile does not automatically mean a tenant should be declined, it may highlight:

• Payment difficulties
• Judgements
• Defaults
• Collection activity
• Existing financial stress

This information should form part of the overall assessment process.

5. Contact Previous Landlords

Previous landlords can often provide information that may not appear in a credit report.Questions may include:

• Was rent paid on time?
• Was the property maintained?
• Were there complaints from neighbours?
• Would they rent to the tenant again?

These conversations often reveal valuable information about a tenant's rental history.

6. Assess Occupancy Risk

It is important to understand exactly who will occupy the property.Landlords should establish:

• Number of occupants
• Relationship between occupants
• Presence of pets
• Intended use of the property

This becomes even more important where the property is furnished or semi-furnished.

7. Use a Proper Lease Agreement

A lease agreement should not simply be downloaded from the internet.A properly drafted lease should address:

• Rental amount
• Deposits
• Occupation dates
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Inspection procedures
• Pet policies
• Municipal charges
• Breach procedures
• Compliance requirements

A well-drafted lease helps protect both landlord and tenant and can prevent costly disputes later.

Found a Tenant? Don't Take Unnecessary Risks

Many landlords successfully find tenants through Facebook groups, referrals, workplace recommendations, or word of mouth.However, finding a tenant and accepting a tenant are two very different things.Before signing a lease, make sure you understand who the applicant is, whether they can afford the rental, and whether they represent an acceptable level of risk.

Professional Tenant Screening & Risk Assessment

A+ Properties offers professional Tenant Screening & Risk Assessment services designed to help landlords make informed decisions.Our screening process may include:

• Identity verification
• Affordability assessment
• Employment verification
• Rental reference checks
• Credit and risk assessment
• Professional recommendation

We also offer a comprehensive Lease Agreement & Compliance Package for landlords who require professionally prepared documentation.

Speak To A+ Properties Before You Accept That Tenant

Whether you found the tenant yourself or need assistance sourcing suitable applicants,