Looking for a new apartment, be it your first one or a change of environment, is an exciting experience. It's a chance to explore a new area, meet new people, and decorate a new space. But before you can sign that lease, most landlords and property managers will require that you undergo an apartment background check. This process can be overwhelming, especially if you're not sure what to expect. So, we've put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the apartment background check process and increase your chances of successfully securing your new home.
The purpose of a background check is to ensure that you have a good rental history without any legal, financial, or behavioral issues that can pose a risk to the property and the tenants. To do this, landlords will typically look at your credit history, criminal records, and eviction history. They want to make sure that you can pay your rent on time and that you're a good tenant who won't disturb the peace or pose a threat to others.
Landlords will often verify your employment status and income to confirm that you're able to pay rent comfortably. They will reach out to your employer to ensure that your employment status is accurate and will often ask for current pay stubs to confirm your income.
Previous rental history is also a crucial part of a background check. Landlords will want to know if you have any past evictions or if you have any history of breaking rental contracts. They will reach out to your previous landlords to confirm your tenancy status and check to see if there are any lease violations on your record.
Some landlords may ask for personal references to confirm that you're a trustworthy and reputable person. A reference can be from someone who knows you well, such as a friend, family member, or coworker. A personal reference can give insight into your character and habits, and can provide additional evidence to support your rental application.
If you have pets, your landlord may ask for pet references to make sure that your furry friend won't cause any damage to the property. They may also check to see if your pet has any previous incidents on their pet record, such as biting or destructive behavior.
A background check may seem intimidating, but it's a necessary measure to protect the property and other tenants. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for a successful rental application. At Oasis at Riverlights, we understand that the background check process can be overwhelming, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you're looking for apartments in Wilmington, NC, contact us today to schedule a personal tour. We'll do everything we can to ensure that your apartment search is as stress-free as possible.