20 Mar 10 Rental Property Red Flags: Signs of a Bad Tenant & How to Avoid Them

Rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant can quickly turn a profitable investment into a financial headache. As a landlord in St. Louis, recognizing these warning signs early is essential to protecting your property and ensuring reliable rental income. From incomplete applications to a history of evictions, certain behaviors can indicate potential issues.

This guide will walk you through the most common rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant, helping you make informed decisions and avoid problematic renters.

Rental Property Red Flags: Signs of a Bad Tenant & How to Avoid Them

Recognizing rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant early in the process can prevent costly mistakes. Here are the key warning signs:

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Rental Applications

A well-qualified tenant should have no problem filling out an application completely and accurately. Missing information, inconsistencies, or false details are rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant that could indicate dishonesty. Always verify the information they provide.

2. Poor Credit History

A tenant’s credit history gives insight into their financial responsibility. While a lower credit score doesn’t always mean they’ll be a problem, excessive late payments, collections, or bankruptcies are rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant that suggest financial instability.

3. History of Evictions

If a prospective tenant has been evicted in the past, it’s a major red flag. While some situations may have valid explanations, multiple evictions suggest a pattern of issues with paying rent or following lease agreements. Eviction records are one of the strongest rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant that landlords should not ignore.

4. Unstable Employment or Insufficient Income

Tenants should have a steady income to cover rent. A general rule is that monthly earnings should be at least three times the rent. Frequent job changes or a lack of income verification could be a warning sign.

5. Poor Landlord References

Always check past rental history. If a previous landlord hesitates to provide feedback or gives a negative review, proceed with caution. Key questions to ask:

• Did they pay rent on time?
• Did they follow lease terms?
• Was the property left in good condition?

6. Criminal History

While minor offenses may not be dealbreakers, a record of serious crimes—especially those related to property damage or violence—could put your rental at risk. A background check can help you make an informed decision.

7. Frequent Moves

If a tenant has changed addresses frequently within a short time, it could indicate instability. Long-term renters help reduce turnover costs and keep your property occupied.

8. Bad Attitude or Pushy Behavior

A tenant who is rude, overly aggressive, or demanding during the application process may be difficult to work with later. If they pressure you to skip screening steps or lower rent, they may be hiding something.

9. Unwillingness to Pay a Security Deposit or Application Fee

Responsible renters should be financially prepared for move-in costs. If an applicant tries to negotiate the security deposit or avoids paying an application fee, it could indicate financial struggles.

10. Signs of Dishonesty

Providing fake references, altered pay stubs, or avoiding direct questions are major warning signs. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t.

How to Avoid Problem Tenants in St. Louis, MO

Now that you know the rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant, here’s how to avoid them:

1. Have a Thorough Screening Process

A detailed screening process helps filter out unqualified applicants. Your screening should include:

• A rental application
• Credit and background checks
• Employment and income verification
• Rental history and landlord references

2. Set Clear Rental Criteria

Establish non-negotiable criteria for tenants, such as:

• Minimum credit score requirement
• Income-to-rent ratio
• No prior evictions
• Good rental references

3. Use a Legally Sound Lease Agreement

A well-written lease agreement protects you and your property. Ensure it covers:

• Rent amount and due date
• Late fees and penalties
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Pet policies
• Rules for subletting

4. Conduct In-Person Interviews

Meeting tenants in person allows you to assess their demeanor. If they seem evasive or defensive, consider it one of the rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant.

5. Require a Security Deposit and First Month’s Rent Upfront

Collecting these payments ensures the tenant has financial stability. Missouri law allows landlords to charge up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.

6. Perform Regular Property Inspections

Regular inspections help identify lease violations or property damage early. Be sure to provide proper notice before entering the unit.

7. Work with a Property Management Company

If you don’t have time to handle tenant screening and property management, hiring professionals can help. Property managers are experienced in identifying rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant while handling issues efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing rental property red flags and signs of a bad tenant can save you time, money, and stress. A strong screening process, clear rental criteria, and a legally sound lease agreement will help you secure reliable tenants and protect your investment.

Let Hermann London take the stress out of property management with expert tenant screening, legally sound lease agreements, and proactive maintenance solutions. Whether you’re looking to find reliable tenants, streamline rent collection, or protect your investment from potential risks, our dedicated team is here to handle every detail—so you can enjoy the benefits of property ownership without the hassle.