Ontario, OR · Member since 2016 · 10 posts · 1 vote
Hi all,
I have tenants expecting to break a lease who have lined up some friends to possibly move in. I'm leery but open to the idea, as it obviously eliminates a tenant search and possibly vacancy. The new tenants would be a couple expecting a baby and they originally expected a 3rd person as roomate but the 3rd person backed out. The income from the couple (which still needs to be verified) covers my minimum to cover rent but that includes the expectant mother's income, which I expect will stop once she has the baby and maybe before. Is anyone aware of legal issues around asking what their plans are for income once the baby is born? Seems like a straightforward question but I'm always cautious around these things. Thanks.
Investor · Shelton, WA · Member since 2017 · 6k+ posts · 6k+ votes
8y
I would not ask the question nor would I accept a tenant that I have not approved through my normal tenant recruitment and screening process. My tenants are not qualified to recruit tenants for me.
Architect · Papillion, NE · Member since 2015 · 1k+ posts · 840 votes
8y
I would look for other ways to disqualify them. Asking the questions seems mute to me; as they can say one thing and do another. I would advertise the unit and see if you can find a better qualified tenant.
Specialist · Fort Collins, CO · Member since 2018 · 557 posts · 191 votes
8y
Hey Ed,
I would avoid asking questions like that in the application process. I am not a lawyer, nor is this legal advice, but I would think this could cause you problems with fair housing laws. Pregnant women are covered as a familial status and asking a question like that could maybe be seen as discrimination. I would follow Jim's advice and find another way to disqualify them if you don't feel comfortable renting to them. You could simply say you found someone who was a better fit for your property. Best of luck!
Investor · Shelton, WA · Member since 2017 · 6k+ posts · 6k+ votes
8y
I would not ask the question nor would I accept a tenant that I have not approved through my normal tenant recruitment and screening process. My tenants are not qualified to recruit tenants for me.
Rental Property Investor · Jersey City, NJ · Member since 2011 · 1k+ posts · 876 votes
8y
@Bjorn Ahlblad I'm not sure that's relevant. The leaving tenants gave him a lead, nothing more. He has to vett them same as always. I've also had this happen, some got the unit, some didn't. So the question would be relevant to any prospect. I faced this recently with an expecting couple where she earned far more than him, and he didn't earn enough to qualify alone. I used my nose and rented to them, they seemed very high functioning people. They have not had the baby yet, but my only regret is they're somewhat high maintenance. On the other hand that's good for a gentrifying area.