Rental Property Investor · MD · Member since 2017 · 102 posts · 21 votes
Hello BP Community,
I'm currently facing a dilemma with a rental application, and I could really use some advice from fellow landlords and property managers.
Recently, one of our tenants requested to add her husband to the lease. To comply, we asked the husband to complete the rental application and submit the required documents, including ID, SSN, and bank statements. I have seen this guy a few times before.
However, upon reviewing the documents, I have a strong suspicion that the ID provided by the husband does not belong to him. While I don't want to jump to conclusions, the picture on the ID is 100% inconsistent with the person I have seen.
I understand the seriousness of accusing someone of identity fraud without concrete evidence, but I also have a responsibility to protect the interests of our property and existing tenants.
So, my question to the community is: What steps should I take to verify the identity of the husband without causing undue tension or confrontation?
Any advice or insights you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
Property Manager · Charlotte, NC · Member since 2022 · 138 posts · 87 votes
2y
@Jeremy Anan that's tough, I'm sorry you're faced with this. However, here is my two cents :)
I have been in this exact situation (along with people fabricating their pay stubs, and even using a dead persons SSN)... I agree in that the easiest way to go about this is to sit him down and in your best manner state that there are inconsistencies and you'd like additional documentation as you do have an obligation to uphold (in keeping the current tenants safe and ensuring this person is who they say they are). I often find that when you come to them asking for help instead of accusing them you get a much better response. It will be very easy to tell if he is lying. If your gut is telling you something is up, trust it and try to get to the bottom of it. You could also hire a third party screening if you do not have one already. Happy to connect if you'd like!
Property Manager · Lindenhurst, IL · Member since 2016 · 854 posts · 506 votes
2y
Managing a property means you sometimes have to go through uncomfortable conversations. What I would do is politely communicate the issue to the applicant.
Property Manager · Charlotte, NC · Member since 2022 · 138 posts · 87 votes
2y
@Jeremy Anan that's tough, I'm sorry you're faced with this. However, here is my two cents :)
I have been in this exact situation (along with people fabricating their pay stubs, and even using a dead persons SSN)... I agree in that the easiest way to go about this is to sit him down and in your best manner state that there are inconsistencies and you'd like additional documentation as you do have an obligation to uphold (in keeping the current tenants safe and ensuring this person is who they say they are). I often find that when you come to them asking for help instead of accusing them you get a much better response. It will be very easy to tell if he is lying. If your gut is telling you something is up, trust it and try to get to the bottom of it. You could also hire a third party screening if you do not have one already. Happy to connect if you'd like!
Rental Property Investor · MD · Member since 2017 · 102 posts · 21 votes
2y
@Theresa Harris - That's totally possible.
The husband I have in mind is African American; the wife is black as well; their 2 yr old baby isn't mixed; the ID emailed to us is of a white guy. We decided that instead of our usual e-lease, I will print out a paper copy of the lease and meet at the property for signature.