These warning signs are easy to spot if you know what to look for.
Incomplete applications indicate carelessness or deliberate avoidance. Missing fields, blank sections, and vague answers predict tenancy behavior. A tenant who can't follow directions on a one-page application will struggle with lease terms and communication.
Inconsistencies between answers and documents deserve attention. The employer name doesn't match pay stubs. Stated income is $500 higher than documents show. Previous address doesn't match what the landlord confirms. These may be honest mistakes, but they warrant follow-up.
Gaps in residential history are among the most significant red flags. A missing year may hide an eviction, a bad arrangement, or incarceration. Ask directly and verify the answer.
Income barely meeting the threshold is a yellow flag when combined with significant debt. Heavy overtime reliance is risky since overtime can be cut. Brand-new employment with no track record is riskier than the same income from a two-year position. Documents that don't match each other are a serious concern requiring explanation.
References unreachable after multiple attempts may not be real. Those who only confirm dates may be bound by legal advice after a bad tenancy. Hesitation on "would you rent to them again?" is an answer in itself. Always cross-reference with property records to verify the person you're speaking with actually owned the rental.
Red flags mean "investigate further," not always "deny." Use them alongside full screening data for a balanced decision. For deeper methodology, visit this screening guide.
Pressure to rush. Excuses for missing documentation. Hostility toward requirements. Excessive negotiation before signing. Qualified applicants with clean histories welcome thorough screening. Those who resist are telling you your process will find something they'd rather you didn't see. Follow your process every time and know the legal boundaries.