How to avoid problem tenants (and how we do it for you)

Choosing the wrong tenant can cost far more than just missed rent. It can lead to property damage, legal costs, and months of stress trying to regain possession.

The reality is simple

most tenancy problems start with poor vetting.

That’s why we use a structured, professional screening process designed to minimise risk and secure reliable, long-term tenants.

What a problem tenant can cost you

Before we get into the solution, here’s the reality many landlords face:

  • Months of unpaid rent

  • Legal costs to evict under the Housing Act 1988

  • Property damage and repair costs

  • Long void periods while resolving issues

In many cases, eviction alone can take 4–8+ months

This is why tenant selection is the most important step in the entire letting process.

Our proven tenant vetting process

We don’t rely on guesswork. Every tenant goes through a strict, multi-step screening process.

Financial & affordability checks

We ensure tenants can comfortably afford the rent

  • Income verified (typically 30x monthly rent)

  • Employment confirmed

  • Bank statements and payslips reviewed

If affordability is borderline, we require a guarantor.

Previous landlord references

We speak directly with previous landlords to confirm:

  • Payment history

  • Property condition

  • Conduct during tenancy

This is often where hidden issues are uncovered.

Character screening (where we really add value)

This is where we go beyond standard agents.

We assess:

  • Communication and responsiveness

  • Attitude during viewings

  • Consistency in answers

  • Overall behaviour throughout the process

Years of experience show that how a tenant behaves before moving in is often exactly how they behave after.

Right to Rent Compliance

We ensure all tenants meet legal requirements to rent in England, keeping you fully compliant.

Red flags we identify early

Most problem tenancies show warning signs upfront

  • Avoiding questions or documentation

  • Inconsistent information

  • Poor communication

  • Rushed or unusual circumstances

We filter these out before they ever reach your property.

Why most landlords get this wrong

Many self-managing landlords

  • Skip proper referencing

  • Rely on instinct

  • Accept tenants too quickly to avoid void periods

The result for our landlords

By following this process, we help landlords

  • Secure reliable, long-term tenants

  • Reduce rent arrears

  • Avoid costly disputes

  • Protect their property and income

This often leads to bigger problems later.

A short void is far cheaper than a bad tenant.

Want us to handle this for you?

If you want to avoid the risk, stress, and time involved in finding the right tenant, we can manage the entire process for you.

From marketing your property to fully vetting and placing the tenant, we handle everything.

Get in touch today to discuss your property

Or request a free rental valuation

📞 01226 391 950
📧 info@infinitusdelta.com

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you make the most of the Barnsley rental market.

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