Putting together the perfect rental application can take a lot of legwork. It's incredibly frustrating to put in so much effort only to be denied an apartment by management. If you've ever wondered why rental applications get denied, here are a few perfectly legal reasons to consider:
Bad Credit
A landlord has to protect their investment, and bad credit scores are often red flags. While it might seem unfair to reject someone solely based on their credit history, your score is a reflection of your financial responsibility. It's no wonder so many landlords opt to fill their vacancies with fiscally responsible tenants over those with less than stellar track records.
Pets
Even when a property allows pets, management can deny your application because of Fido or Fluffy. This is especially true if your pet has a history of violence. Landlords and property managers have to make responsible decisions to protect the safety of everyone involved, so if your beloved pet has a track record for misbehavior, you may find your application denied.
Questionable References
Rental references can be a huge bolster to your application, but if any of them seem questionable, they may jeopardize your chances of securing a new place to live. Landlords and property managers rely on references to ensure you're a responsible, trustworthy tenant. If your previous landlord won't return calls or give sketchy feedback about your tenancy, your application may indeed be passed over.
-- Scott Safadi, Cal Bay Property Management