While Orlando's crime rate is lower than the national average, you still must protect your investments. You also have to worry about the safety of all your tenants.
You wouldn't want to let in a dangerous criminal because of an oversight.
When choosing tenants for your property, you want to be sure you're making the right decision. One essential tool in this process is the criminal background check.
Keep reading to learn about five red flags to watch out for when conducting a tenant criminal background check. That way, you'll have tenants you can trust.
1. A Long Criminal Record
It's true that people can make some big mistakes in their life. Still, someone who does this again and again shows no signs of growth.
One of the primary red flags in a tenant's criminal background check is a history of many criminal convictions.
Does a possible tenant have a record of numerous offenses? If so, it's reasonable to assume they pose a potential danger to your property or fellow tenants. You should always watch for people with a history of repeated criminal activity.
2. Selecting Tenants Without Violent Crimes
Violent crimes are a serious concern for any landlord. When conducting a tenant criminal background check, pay special attention to those convictions.
For instance, do they relate to violent offenses like assault, domestic violence, or robbery? While people can change, these convictions might create significant safety and liability issues.
3. Tenant Screening for Drug-Related Offenses
Drugs are a slippery slope to all kinds of other illegal activities. These offenses can also become red flags in a tenant's criminal background check.
Convictions in drug trafficking, possession, or manufacturing can signal potential problems. The last thing you need is illegal drug activity on your property. As a landlord, you want to create a safe and drug-free environment for everyone.
4. Sex Offender Status
It's essential to ensure your property is a safe place for all tenants. It's especially important to do what you can to protect women and children. With that in mind, you should double-check if an applicant has a registered sex offender status.
The good news is that this information is available to the public. You can check local sex offender registries to confirm whether your potential tenant is on the list.
5. Unresolved Legal Issues
Some legal issues are up in the air. This could include outstanding warrants, pending court cases, or probation violations.
Tenants with these unresolved matters may not be the best choice. They could easily become a liability for your property.
You Can't Go Without a Tenant Criminal Background Check
With a thorough tenant criminal background check, you can keep everyone safe. You'll also maintain the reputation of your rental properties. That way, you won't scare off reliable tenants in the future.
For full-service property management, look no further than Verandah Properties. For two decades, we've provided top-notch services to businesses in Orlando. We handle background checks, financial reporting, advertising, and more.
We'd love to discuss your specific needs in Florida. Don't hesitate to get a quote from Verandah Properties today.