6 types of potential tenants that might be cause for concern — and how to spot them early
For residential landlords, we know that choosing the right tenant is more than just getting someone to pay the mortgage — it’s about protecting your property, investment, and your peace of mind. Whilst the vast majority of tenants are responsible and respectful, treating your property as though it were their own, there are of course those who may cause issues.
Let us share six insights from our legal and enforcement team on how to identify tenants who could potentially be problematic (but please note, this list is based on situations we have observed over the years and isn’t a substitute for proper tenant referencing).
1. The “Eager Beaver” 🦫
Red Flag: They want to move in immediately, often offering cash upfront or asking to skip referencing.
This urgency can signal they’re being evicted by another landlord, hiding a poor rental history or even involved in illegal activity.
Take a step back: Ask why they’re in a rush to move. And of course, verify previous landlord references and insist on full checks with no exceptions.
2. The “Ghost Employer” 👻
Red Flag: Employment details just don’t check out, with vague job titles, unverifiable companies or suspicious payslips.
Fake employment is a common tactic employed to pass affordability checks.
Take a step back: Use professional referencing services, contact their employer to confirm status and cross-check things like LinkedIn profiles, company websites, Companies House and payslip formatting.
3. The “Perfect Tenant” 😇
Red flag: Top notch paperwork, a seemingly high income and glowing references — but there are small inconsistencies.
Fraudsters often use stolen identities or forged documents to secure properties for subletting or criminal use.
Take a step back: Always use a professional tenancy referencing service who will be able to run thorough background checks on applicants. You can also look out for inconsistencies in dates, fonts and formatting. Verify ID documents and run credit and background checks independently. You can use the NRLA to help with this.
4. The “Cagey Candidate” 🕵️
Red flag: Reluctant to provide full details, avoids questions or refuses to meet in person.
They may be hiding something – at worst a criminal record, or intent to engage in criminal activity.
Take a step back: Again, it’s best to be sure of who you’re letting your property to – tenant referencing will uncover any background anomalies. Insist on transparency and walk away if they won’t provide full documentation or attend viewings.
5. The “Cash-Only Tenant” 💸
Red flag: Offers to pay rent in cash and avoids any bank transfers or formal agreements.
This could indicate undeclared income, money laundering or illegal subletting.
Take a step back: Always insist on traceable payments and formal contracts. Report suspicious behaviour to relevant authorities.
6. The “Wannabe Landlord” 🗝️
Red flag: One person applies, but multiple people show up at viewings or move in later.
Overcrowding breaches tenancy agreements and can lead to HMO violations, safety risks and of course, ultimately require enforcement.
Take a step back: Clarify from the outset who will live in the property and include occupancy limits in the tenancy agreement. Conduct regular inspections.
At Strikes Property Services Group, we’ve seen firsthand how costly and complex things can become when landlords are forced to take legal action against tenants — from rent arrears and property damage, to drawn-out possession claims. The truth is that most enforcement cases could be avoided with stronger due diligence at the start of the tenancy.
That’s why, in addition to our specialist legal and enforcement services, Strikes Property Services Group also provides comprehensive tenant referencing to help landlords make informed decisions before a tenancy begins. Our checks cover employment, credit history, references and fraud detection, because prevention is always better than cure.
If you’re facing any challenges with your tenants, please don’t hesitate to contact Strikes on 0113 3229555 or [email protected].
We offer up to 10% discount on our services for NRLA members.
