Tenant screening is one of the most important responsibilities for any landlord. The resident you place in your property will determine whether you enjoy steady income and peace of mind — or late rent, property damage, and constant headaches. In Los Angeles, where rental demand is high and regulations are strict, it pays to get this step right.

Advertising the Vacancy

First impressions matter. A well-written listing with professional photos will attract serious, qualified applicants. Use platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Facebook Marketplace to reach a wide audience. Clear descriptions of amenities, rent, and policies help set expectations and reduce wasted time with unqualified inquiries.

Responding to Applicants

Time is critical in today’s rental market. Responding quickly to inquiries shows professionalism and keeps your property top of mind. Landlords who delay often lose good tenants to faster competition.

Showing the Property

Convenient scheduling — including evenings, weekends, or virtual tours — increases the likelihood of filling a vacancy quickly. A respectful, professional showing also gives you an early impression of how a prospective tenant might treat the property.

Screening Thoroughly

The screening process is where landlords must be both thorough and consistent. Credit checks, income verification, rental history, and references from previous landlords are all essential. Applying the same standards to each applicant isn’t just good practice — it’s required under fair housing laws. A standardized approach protects you legally while ensuring fairness.

Strong Lease Agreements

A lease is the foundation of your landlord-tenant relationship. A well-drafted lease should outline rent amounts and due dates, security deposit requirements, maintenance responsibilities, and property rules such as pets, smoking, or noise. The clearer the lease, the fewer disputes you’ll face later.

Security Deposits and Compliance

California has specific rules regarding how much you can collect, how deposits are held, and how they are returned. Failing to comply can lead to disputes or legal penalties. Collect deposits before move-in and always keep detailed records.

The Bottom Line

Tenant screening and leasing require time and attention to detail, but they are the most effective way to protect your investment. Placing a reliable tenant upfront saves months — even years — of stress later. For landlords, consistency is key: treat every applicant fairly, follow the law, and document every step.