Parental leave during tenant screening

Parental leave during tenant screening

Member since 2023 · 35 posts · 16 votes

Does someone being on maternity leave influence your decision when assessing applicant household income?

I am by no means discriminating against them for being on leave, but their household income only just met our minimum requirement for the property/expenses with full-time income from both parties. If one is on parental leave, they are technically no longer meeting that minimum. Do others take this into account when screening, or do you overlook since it is (supposed to be) temporary?

Thank you!

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  • Real Estate Consultant · Ft. Lauderdale, FL · Member since 2012 · 38 posts · 38 votes
    6d

    I'd be careful in how you express your written or verbal reasons for whatever your decision is, to your applicants. Pregnancy/familial status is protected under federal fair housing law. Your good intentions aren't considered. It's a real concern, considering they barely meet the minimum requirement. Life happens, and if they can't absorb financial bumps, will they fall behind in rent. That said, I'd look into your local/state housing laws on what you can and can't consider in your decision.

    • Member since 2023 · 35 posts · 16 votes
      6d

      Thanks Tony, agreed, I wanted to approach this carefully. They ended up withdrawing their application for other reasons but I'll continue to explore what options I have in this case for future. Thanks for you thoughts on this!

  • Alexis DeAngelisBusiness Member
    Property Manager · Raleigh, Raleigh-Durham area · Member since 2025 · 50 posts · 37 votes
    6d

    I agree with Tony. Just be careful in how you discuss it with them. Also, in their defense, a lot of companies pay full time now even when moms are on maternity leave so the income might still be there. :-) Good luck with everything and have a great day!

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