Eviction Experience in Rental History: What to Include and Why

When it comes to listing rental history on your application, certain experiences like evictions can be tricky. Recently, a situation where two individuals sublet a basement from a couple who were evicted has raised questions about how to handle such instances. This article will delve into the details of such a scenario and provide guidance on what to include and why.

Understanding the Situations

The original scenario centers around a basement that was rented by a couple. However, they were evicted and had to vacate the property. The couple then sublet the basement to the current tenant. With the fear of including eviction-related information on their rental history, this article will address the concerns and provide clarity.

Should Evictions Be Listed?

Many are concerned about listing evictions on their rental history as it can affect future applications. According to legal and financial experts, it is best to include such information transparently. As a tenant, you were not responsible for the eviction and did not get evicted yourself. Therefore, the eviction should appear on your rental history as a part of your landlord's history.

Personal Consideration

The earlier advice revolved around whether the eviction was included in the tenant's name. The response from experts suggests that since the legal tenants brought in the couple, the couple was likely not named in the eviction process. To ensure accuracy, a credit check should be done to verify the information. It is important to verify and list your own credit information as accurately as possible to avoid issues later on.

What to Include in Rental History

When listing the rental history, the recommendation is to include detailed information. This includes:

The address of the property The name of the landlord (in this case, the couple who sublet the basement) The lease period Any relevant details regarding the eviction, if any

It is crucial to avoid listing false information. Any fabrication on rental history can lead to discrepancies and consequences. Including evictions in your rental history not only helps in maintaining transparency but also avoids potential lies that can be damaging to your credibility.

Explanation and Context

For any future landlord, include context around the situation. Clearly state that you were a legitimate tenant and that the eviction was related to the couple who sublet the basement. This provides a clear understanding of your involvement and the situation.

Important Considerations

1. Why Subletting is Not Recommended by Landlords: Most landlords do not permit subletting because it requires them to be aware of who is in the property. Tenants often lack the tools and resources to conduct thorough background checks on potential subtenants. This can lead to issues such as renting to violent criminals or drug dealers.

2. Impact of New Addresses on Credit Reports: If you provided your new address to creditors or phone companies, it may appear on your credit report. Omitting this information may lead to application denials based on false information.

3. Legal Protection Under Eviction Rules: If you moved before receiving eviction papers, no eviction was filed against you. Honesty with a new landlord is key to maintaining a positive relationship. Providing the context of the subletting and the eviction experience can help in securing future housing.

In summary, it is essential to list all rental history accurately, including evictions, to maintain transparency and trust in the rental market. Whether you were a legitimate tenant or a subtenant, ensure that you provide a clear and honest account of the situation. This not only helps in avoiding future complications but also builds a positive reputation with prospective landlords.