Finding a tenant quickly feels like a win — until three months in, when the rent stops coming and you realize you never really checked who you were renting to. Tenant screening isn't about being suspicious of every applicant; it's about protecting the asset you've worked hard for.

1. Verify identity and address proof

Ask for government-issued ID (Aadhaar, PAN, passport) and current address proof. Cross-check the name and photo against the person standing in front of you — this sounds obvious, but it's the step most owners skip.

2. Check employment and income stability

A simple salary slip or offer letter goes a long way. As a rule of thumb, monthly rent shouldn't exceed 30-35% of the tenant's take-home income — beyond that, payment delays become more likely over time.

3. Ask for references — and actually call them

A quick call to a previous landlord or employer can surface issues that documents never will: late payments, property damage, or early lease-breaking.

4. Run a background check where possible

For larger properties or long-term leases, a basic police verification (mandatory in many states) and a look at any public records adds another layer of assurance.

5. Get everything in a signed rental agreement

Verbal understanding means nothing in a dispute. A registered agreement with clear clauses on rent, deposit, notice period, and maintenance responsibilities protects both sides.

The GharBaar way: We run tenant verification, document checks, and reference calls as part of our subscription plans, so you're not doing this alone at 11 PM over WhatsApp. Ghar hai, toh GharBaar hai.