Landlords typically take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to approve a rental application. The timeframe largely depends on the landlord’s screening process and the number of applications received.
This is because they have to go through a screening process that involves verifying your income, rental history, and credit score. Additionally, they may have to review multiple applications before making a decision.
However, communication throughout the process is key, so don’t hesitate to reach out to the landlord or property manager for updates.
Factors That Affect The Time Taken For Landlord Approval
Finding the perfect apartment can be a daunting task, but getting approval from the landlord can also take an unknown amount of time.
Unfortunately, the timeframe for approval isn’t really set in stone. More often than not, it might take longer than expected.
Several factors come into play when it comes to landlords approving a rental application.
Here we take a closer look at four key elements that influence the time taken to approve an application.
Credit Score & History
One significant factor that landlords take into account before approving a rental application is the prospective tenant’s credit score and history.
Your credit tells the landlord how financially responsible you have been in the past. A clean credit score and history will earn you easy approval.
However, if you have a low score, landlords generally take more time to evaluate your application and make a final decision.
- The higher the credit score, the more chance of quick approval.
- If you have a low credit score, the landlord may take more time to evaluate your application.
- Debt can impact credit scores and may lead to a longer approval process.
Income Verification
Another factor that landlords consider when approving a rental application is income.
Your income history indicates how financially stable you are and your ability to pay rent promptly.
Landlords need assurance that tenants can afford rent, so they evaluate income before approving a rental application.
- The higher the income, the quicker the approval, as it shows an ability to pay rent.
- If your income is not sufficient, it might lead to a more detailed evaluation of your application.
- Self-employed applicants need to provide more income verification details.
Rental History
A well-documented rental history is another essential factor that landlords take into account before approving an application.
A positive rental history indicates that you have been a responsible tenant in the past.
If you have a bad history, the landlord may take longer to evaluate the application or outright deny it.
- The longer the rental history, the more trust the landlord has in tenants, leading to quicker approvals.
- If you have been evicted in the past or have a negative rental record, the landlord may need to perform more due diligence, leading to a more detailed examination of your application.
- A lack of rental history may also prolong the rental approval process.
Criminal Background Check
Lastly, a criminal background check is part of the rental application process. Landlords need assurance that they’re renting their apartment to someone with a clean record.
If you have a criminal history, the landlord may take longer to review your rental application.
- A clean criminal background leads to a quicker approval process.
- A criminal history can result in a more detailed examination of your application.
- Some landlords have strict policies on criminal history leading to outright rejection of the application.
Tips For Tenant To Expedite The Approval Process
Securing a rental property is a process that requires a lot of time and effort from tenants.
Once you’ve found the right apartment or house in the perfect location, it’s time to apply for it.
However, the apartment or house rental application process could take longer than expected, leaving you feeling helpless and anxious.
Fortunately, there are ways you can accelerate the approval process. Here are a few tips to expedite the approval process:
Provide Complete & Accurate Information In The Application Form
Providing accurate and comprehensive information in your rental application form can expedite the approval process.
The landlord needs all the necessary information to determine your suitability as a tenant. Make sure to fill out the application form accurately and completely.
Incomplete applications may cause unnecessary delays, so double-check to ensure that you’ve provided everything required before submitting your application.
Leaving fields blank or providing insufficient information could even sabotage your application.
- Indicate your employment status, monthly income, and the length of time you’ve been employed in your current position.
- Keep both personal and professional references handy. You may need to include names, contact information, and a brief explanation of who they are and their relationship with you.
Provide References & Contact Information
Providing references in your rental application is crucial. Landlords often contact references to verify information provided on the application.
Whether it’s a personal or professional reference, making it easy for the landlord to contact them could expedite the approval process.
Ensure each reference is aware that they’ve been listed on your rental application and provide them with the information they might need concerning the property.
- Provide current employer details, including your point of contact’s name, phone number, email address, and your manager’s phone number.
Follow Up With Landlord Regularly
Following up with the landlord regularly can speed up the approval process.
Once you’ve submitted your rental application, be diligent in following up to check on the approval status.
Keeping track of your application’s progress is crucial, primarily if there are other competing interests for the rental property.
It would help if you were proactive in addressing any issues or concerns that arise during the screening process.
- Call the landlord or property manager once or twice a week to inquire about the approval process.
Be Flexible With Move-In Date
Being flexible with your move-in date can help to expedite the approval process.
If the landlord has several potential tenants, stressing the significance of your need for the property might give you an advantage.
The more reason you’re willing to be flexible about your move-in date, the higher your chance of securing the property.
- Let the landlord know that you’re flexible with the move-in date and find out when the landlord prefers you to move in.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take For A Landlord To Approve A Rental Application?
The landlord typically takes 24-48 hours to approve a rental application if all the necessary information is provided.
What Factors Can Delay The Landlord’S Approval Process?
Incomplete or missing information, poor credit scores, previous evictions, and a criminal record can delay the landlord’s approval process.
Can I Do Anything To Speed Up The Landlord’S Approval Process?
Providing complete and accurate information, having a good credit score, and having good references can speed up the approval process.
Can A Landlord Deny An Application Even If It Meets All Requirements?
Yes, landlords reserve the right to deny any application even if it meets all requirements, as long as the reasons are not discriminatory.
Conclusion
Navigating the rental market can be tricky, but don’t lose heart. Remember, it typically takes between 48-72 hours for a landlord to approve your application.
Stay patient, be proactive, and before you know it, you’ll be settling into your new home!
Reference
https://www.portland.gov/sites/default/files/2020-02/phb-rso-brochure-screening-v8-spreads.pdf