Since cases of identity fraud have been rising, especially those targeting landlords, it has become more important than ever to thoroughly vet potential tenants before signing a tenancy agreement.
By requesting references from employers and past landlords, reviewing their latest bank statements and utility bills, landlords can uncover facts about them that will reveal if they will be a decent tenant. Investigate in every area possible to paint a picture of who will be living in your investment.
Another thing to remember is to not allow tenants to move into the property any quicker than you have allowed on the agreement, and to be wary of those that pay large sums of rent in advance.