As a landlord, ensuring that you have trustworthy tenants is paramount to protecting your property and maintaining a steady rental income. Recently, we've encountered numerous fraudulent cases involving tenants sourced through Zillow, highlighting significant risks associated with using Zillow for background checks and lease agreements. Here's why landlords should reconsider relying on Zillow for these critical tasks.

1. High Incidence of Fraudulent Applications

Over the past few months, we've handled an increasing number of fraudulent cases involving tenants found through Zillow. These cases often involve false identities, fake employment information, and forged documents. The prevalence of such issues suggests that Zillow's screening processes may not be as robust or secure as needed to prevent fraud effectively.

2. Incomplete Background Checks

While Zillow offers background check services, they are not as comprehensive as those provided by dedicated tenant screening companies. Background checks are crucial in identifying potential red flags, such as prior evictions, criminal history, credit issues and previous rental history issues. Inadequate checks can lead to problematic tenants who might cause property damage, disturb other tenants, or fail to pay rent on time.

3. Standardized Leases May Not Meet Local Requirements

Zillow provides standardized lease agreements that not account for specific state or local laws. Landlords need to ensure their lease agreements comply with local regulations to avoid legal issues. Customizing a lease to fit the particular needs of your property and jurisdiction is vital for protecting your rights as a landlord.

4. Risk of Non-Payment and Eviction Difficulties

When tenants are not thoroughly vetted, the risk of non-payment increases significantly. Eviction processes can be lengthy and costly, especially if the tenant disputes the eviction. Proper screening helps mitigate this risk by ensuring that only qualified tenants occupy your property.

5. Alternatives to Zillow

Consider using specialized services that offer comprehensive and thorough background checks. For instance, Vegas Valley Evictions provides complete and meticulous screening processes, ensuring no faulty applications slip through. Additionally, our sister company, First Full Service Property Management, offers customized property management solutions tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

While Zillow may be a popular platform for advertising rental properties, its services for background checks and lease agreements may not provide the level of security and customization needed to protect your property effectively. Protect your investment and peace of mind by choosing reliable background check services like Vegas Valley Evictions and comprehensive property management solutions from First Full Service Property Management.