When applying for a rental property, one of the most crucial steps landlords undertake is reviewing your rental history report. But how much do these reports reveal about you, and what steps can you take if yours isn’t ideal? In this article, what does rental history show contain and simple steps you can implement to improve your standing.
What Do Rental History Reports Reveal?
Rental history reports provide landlords with a snapshot of your tenancy record and financial habits. Think of them as similar to a credit report, but specific to your track record as a renter. Here’s what landlords typically see in these reports:
1. Previous Addresses
Rental history reports list the addresses of properties you’ve previously lived in. Landlords can verify your residency history to confirm your stability and consistency as a tenant.
2. Landlord References
Some landlords choose to go the extra mile by leaving feedback about past tenants. This can include notes on your payment punctuality, communication, and rental care. Positive landlord references can set you apart, while negative reviews may raise red flags.
3. Payment History
Your rental payment record is a critical aspect of a rental history report. Landlords check for on-time payments or patterns of late payments, as this information reflects your dependability.
4. Evictions or Legal Issues
If you’ve faced eviction or legal disputes with a landlord, this will likely appear in your rental history. These incidents can heavily influence whether a landlord approves your application.
5. Length of Stay
The duration of time you spent at prior residences is also included. Long tenures suggest reliability and commitment, while frequent short stays might signal instability.
6. Outstanding Balances
If you left previous properties with unpaid rent balances or damages, this information will likely appear in your record. Landlords may view such records negatively.
7. Background Checks
Rental history reports often include criminal background checks. While not guaranteed to disqualify you, certain considerations—like offenses related to property—may impact landlords’ decisions.
How to Improve Your Rental History
If you’re concerned about your rental history report, there are several ways to bolster it going forward:
1. Pay Rent On Time
Your payment history is one of the most influential factors on a rental report. Always aim to pay your rent punctually. Setting up automatic payments or reminders can help ensure you never miss a due date.
2. Communicate Openly with Landlords
Whether you’re addressing an issue or negotiating lease terms, transparent communication leaves a positive impression on landlords. This could lead to valuable references in the future.
3. Settle Outstanding Balances
When possible, pay off past-due balances or negotiate with prior landlords to resolve debt disputes. Having records of settled agreements can help repair your rental report.
4. Maintain the Property
Landlords value tenants who treat their property with respect. Leaving a rental in pristine condition at move-out goes a long way in securing positive references.
5. Document Everything
Keep copies of rental agreements, payment receipts, and communications with landlords. If discrepancies arise on your rental history, having documentation readily available can help you challenge inaccuracies.
6. Prioritize Long-Term Rentals
Frequent moves can signal instability. Try to commit to longer-term leases that demonstrate reliability. This steadiness helps improve your rental history over time.
7. Dispute Errors on Your Record
Mistakes can happen, even on rental history reports. Request a copy of your rental history from agencies and carefully check for errors. If you find inaccuracies, dispute them directly with the reporting agency.
Final Thoughts
Your rental history report plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for new properties. While it reflects past habits, it isn’t set in stone. By making the effort to improve your habits and manage your history, you set yourself up for more opportunities and choices as a renter.
Looking to secure the perfect rental? Start building a strong rental history today to showcase your reliability and commitment to landlords.