Property managers in North Carolina evaluate applicants to determine whether a candidate should be granted occupancy using a North Carolina rental/lease application form. The prospective occupant would fill out the application and submit it for evaluation. An applicant's credit report, past rental history, criminal background check, and income details will all be requested. If the landlord is pleased with the applicant after reviewing the application, they will then talk about the possibility of signing a rental lease. All details must be recorded in writing or printed.
Application Fee: There is no established minimum (i.e., no rule) for application fees.
Security Deposit - The property manager might require two (2) months' lease for the initial deposit. For occupants at will, the sum is one and a half (1.5) months' lease (§ 42-51(b)).
When conducting an applicant screening exercise, the following seven (7) queries are helpful. They aid in reducing the number of potential tenants you can choose for your rental property.
1. Is there a particular move-in date?
It’s one of the best initial tenant screening questions because it establishes whether you and your applicant are a good match. Your prospective tenant might be unable to move in immediately, but you may still have an immediate vacancy.
2. Do you own any pets?
Before conducting a more thorough screening, use the initial tenant screening questions to pre-qualify candidates. The applicant and you will save time and energy when you refuse to accept pets. If pets are permitted, but there are restrictions on the number or size of the pets, you should inform the applicant.
3. How long have you lived at your current address?
It is a good idea to ask prospective tenants how long they have lived in their current and previous residences. If they show signs of instability by hopping from property to property and leaving you with an open position, they are likely to act in the same way toward you.
4. Do you have a specific reason for relocating?
It is possible to uncover earlier issues, such as evictions, by asking such a straightforward but insightful question. Ask the prospective tenants why they are moving. Some people move because their current apartment is too small or they want to shorten their commute.
5. Do you have any smokers in your home?
Tenant screening should address this issue because smoking can damage property. Smoking is not always disclosed by prospective tenants, but you might notice a pack of cigarettes or smell smoke as a clue.
6. How much do you earn each month?
This gives the tenant the ability to save money for other expenses while also acting as a safety net in case unanticipated costs like car repairs or medical expenses arise. Along with pay stubs and an employment reference, you should use Income Insights to evaluate the tenant's income.
7. Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
It is important to look into this important aspect of an applicant's background before deciding whether or not they are a good fit for your property.