The tenant application is a process of elimination for landlords. The tenant application varies, depending on how stringent the landlord wishes to be. The laws governing what a landlord can ask the tenant on an application vary from state to state, but there are some standard questions allowed on a tenant application.

Basic Questions

All landlords will request that a potential tenant fill out an application. The application will consist of some basic questions which are allowed by law. The questions include the name, address, place of employment, bank account information and references. These questions are normal and fair under the law.

Extensive Questions

A tenant application might ask other questions such as whether the potential tenant has ever been convicted of a crime, whether or not the tenant has ever been late on rent payments with their current landlord and if they can contact the current landlord for more information on the tenant. The landlord may also legally ask the potential tenant to sign a release form so they can do a credit check and another one to do a background check. The potential tenant will be required to pay an application fee to cover the cost for the checks. The amount of the fee varies depending on the company the landlord hires to perform the checks.

Security DepositTenants might be asked to give a partial security deposit when placing the tenant application. This is not a requirement by law and is highly discouraged. Once the landlord has a partial deposit, he or she could take a great deal of time returning the money if the tenant changes his or her mind. Some landlords will even attempt to keep the deposit and state that a contract was made when the deposit was placed. It is highly recommended to wait to place any deposit on the rental until approval is gained and the lease agreement is signed.

It pays to be honest on the tenant application. Lying on the application will result in immediate denial from the landlord. A prior conviction or slightly bad credit report will not always be cause for dismissal of the application. Potential tenants have the right to protect themselves from unfair and unlawful tenant applications. Check state and local laws to ensure the tenant application is a lawful one. A landlord will do whatever he or she can to protect themselves and tenants should do the same.